Testing various herbs for antithrombotic effect

Objective: Prevention of arterial thrombotic diseases has high priority in developed countries. Because people who eat inappropriate food are prone to thrombotic events, regular intake of an antithrombotic diet may offer a convenient and effective way of prevention. The aim of the present study was to find herbs that have antithrombotic effects. Methods: Herbs were crushed and centrifuged and the juice obtained was filtered. The effect of filtrate on platelet-rich thrombus formation was assessed by a shear-induced in vitro platelet function test (hemostatometry). Filtrates showing significant antithrombotic activity were further assessed by using a laser-induced in vivo thrombosis test in mice. The effect of orally' administered herb filtrates on flow-mediated vasodilation was also measured. Results: Common thyme and rosemary showed significant antithrombotic activity in vitro and in vivo. Neither herb affected flow-mediated vasodilation Conclusion: Some herbs possess antithrombotic effects in experimental models of thrombosis. The mechanism of the antithrombotic effect of common thyme and rosemary may involve a direct inhibitory effect on platelets. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.