Growing up, my nana always had a natural remedy for every ailment, but one of her most cherished practices was using herbal teas to maintain her health as she aged. After turning 50, she made it a point to include specific teas in her daily routine to prevent blood clots. These teas, made from simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, are not only delicious but also believed to provide numerous health benefits. In this article, I’ll share my nana’s tea recipes that are said to keep the blood flowing naturally and smoothly.

Understanding Blood Clots and Why Prevention Matters

Blood clots form when blood thickens and clumps together in your veins or arteries. For individuals over 50, the risk of clotting increases due to factors like decreased mobility, medications, and age-related conditions. Clots can lead to severe health problems such as deep vein thrombosis, strokes, and pulmonary embolisms. Preventing clots is vital, and lifestyle adjustments like staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and adopting a balanced diet rich in natural anticoagulants can make a big difference. Herbal teas can be a simple yet effective addition to your routine to support healthy blood circulation.

The Natural Power of Herbal Teas

Herbal teas have been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Many herbs and spices possess natural anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties, making them powerful tools in the fight against blood clots. Drinking herbal teas not only hydrates you but also infuses your body with health-boosting compounds. Whether you’re looking to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, or simply enjoy a calming ritual, herbal teas offer a multitude of benefits.

Nana’s Best Tea Recipes for Preventing Clots

My nana had a few go-to tea recipes that she believed helped her stay healthy and free from blood clots. These recipes blend the medicinal properties of herbs and spices to create flavorful, health-boosting teas that promote blood flow. Here are four of her favorites:

Ginger and Turmeric Tea: A Potent Anti-Inflammatory Duo

Ingredients:

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the ginger and turmeric, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup.
4. Stir in the honey and lemon juice, mixing well.
5. Drink warm, once a day, to support healthy blood circulation.

Both ginger and turmeric are well-known for their powerful anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties, making this tea a powerhouse for promoting smooth blood flow.

Green Tea with Lemon and Honey: A Morning Boost for Your Heart

Ingredients:

• 1 green tea bag
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup of hot water

Instructions:

1. Steep the green tea bag in hot water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bag, then stir in the lemon juice and honey.
3. Enjoy warm or cold.

Green tea is packed with antioxidants like catechins, which can improve blood flow and support heart health. Starting your day with this refreshing tea is a great way to give your body a boost.

Hibiscus and Cinnamon Tea: Refreshing and Heart-Healthy

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon dried hibiscus petals
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Add hibiscus petals and the cinnamon stick, then simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup.
4. Stir in the honey and enjoy warm or chilled.

Hibiscus is known for its antioxidant and blood pressure-lowering properties, while cinnamon helps improve circulation. Together, they create a flavorful tea that promotes heart health and blood flow.

Chamomile and Lavender Tea: A Calming Nighttime Tea

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
• 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup of hot water

Instructions:

1. Steep chamomile and lavender in hot water for 5-7 minutes.
2. Strain the tea into a cup.
3. Stir in the honey and sip before bedtime.

Chamomile has mild anticoagulant properties, while lavender provides a calming effect. This tea not only promotes relaxation but can also help keep your blood flowing smoothly.

How to Make These Teas Part of Your Routine

Incorporating these teas into your daily routine is both easy and enjoyable. Here’s a simple guide to get started:

• Morning: Start with a cup of green tea with lemon and honey for a refreshing, heart-healthy boost.
• Midday: Drink ginger and turmeric tea to combat inflammation and support circulation.
• Afternoon: Sip on hibiscus and cinnamon tea for a refreshing and antioxidant-packed pick-me-up.
• Nighttime: Unwind with a cup of chamomile and lavender tea before bed to help you relax and promote healthy blood flow.

Do These Teas Really Work? A Look at the Science

Scientific research supports the health benefits of many of the ingredients in these teas. Ginger and turmeric, for instance, are recognized for their anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties. Green tea’s catechins have been shown to improve blood flow and lower cholesterol. Hibiscus contains antioxidants that support heart health, while chamomile has gentle anticoagulant effects. While more research is always helpful, these studies suggest that incorporating these teas into your diet can positively impact your cardiovascular health.

Precautions to Consider

While herbal teas can offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to remember that some herbs may interact with medications. If you are already taking blood thinners or have underlying health conditions, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding any new teas to your routine. Moderation is key, and herbal teas should complement, not replace, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion: A Natural Approach to Cardiovascular Health

My nana’s love for herbal teas was more than just a comforting ritual; it was her way of proactively supporting her cardiovascular health. These tea recipes, passed down through generations, offer a natural, accessible way to promote healthy blood flow and prevent clots. By incorporating these teas into your daily life, you not only get to enjoy delicious, soothing beverages but also take steps toward a healthier heart and body. So, why not embrace the wisdom of tradition and start brewing up some heart-healthy tea today?