Dong Quai and Warfarin Interaction: Risks, Signs, and What to Do

When you take Dong Quai, a traditional herbal remedy often used for menstrual and menopausal symptoms. Also known as Angelica sinensis, it's commonly found in supplements marketed for hormonal balance. and you're also on warfarin, a blood thinner prescribed to prevent dangerous clots, you're playing with fire. Dong Quai doesn't just gently support your body—it can make warfarin work too hard, turning your blood into a leaky hose. This isn't theoretical. Real cases have landed people in the ER with uncontrolled bleeding after mixing the two.

Warfarin is one of the most finicky drugs out there. Its job is to slow clotting, but it has to stay in a narrow window—too little and you risk a stroke; too much and you risk internal bleeding. Dong Quai interferes with this balance by boosting warfarin’s effect, likely through compounds that inhibit liver enzymes that normally break down the drug. This is similar to how CBD oil, a popular supplement that blocks the same liver enzymes can cause dangerous drug buildup. The result? Your INR—a simple blood test that measures clotting time—can spike without warning. You might not feel anything until you bruise easily, bleed from the gums, or notice blood in your stool or urine.

Many people think herbal means safe. That’s a deadly myth. Dong Quai isn’t regulated like prescription drugs, so its strength varies wildly between brands. One bottle might have enough to tip your INR into danger, the next might be harmless. And if you’re also taking other meds—like aspirin, a common painkiller that also thins blood—the risk multiplies. Even something as simple as a cold remedy with ibuprofen can turn a small interaction into a crisis. Doctors don’t always ask about herbs. You have to speak up. Write down everything you take, including teas and supplements, and bring it to every appointment.

If you’re on warfarin and thinking about trying Dong Quai, stop. Don’t guess. Don’t assume it’s fine because it’s natural. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor first. If you’re already using it, don’t quit cold turkey—sudden changes can also trigger clots. Work with your provider to safely taper off and monitor your INR closely. There are safer, science-backed options for hormonal support that won’t put your life at risk. The goal isn’t to avoid all herbs—it’s to avoid the ones that could kill you while you’re trying to feel better.

Below, you’ll find real stories and data from people who’ve dealt with dangerous drug interactions—from CBD and warfarin to antibiotics and muscle relaxants. These aren’t hypothetical warnings. They’re lessons learned the hard way. What you’re about to read could save your life—or someone you love.