Hydrogen Water Was Linked to Reduced Blood Clots in Lab Tests
Inhibitory effects of hydrogen on in vitro platelet activation and in vivo prevention of thrombosis formation
Research hubs: Cardiovascular System
- Authors
- Yun Wang, Ya-ping Wu, Ji-ju Han, Mao-qing Zhang, Chen-xi Yang, Peng Jiao, Hua Tian, Chao Zhu, Shu-cun Qin, Xue-jun Sun, Han-ting Zhang, Xiao-min Zhao
- Journal
- Life Sciences
- Year
- 2019
- PMID
- 31356907
- Study Type
- Mouse
- Delivery
- Saline (Dissolved)
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Cited by
- 14 (OpenAlex, as of November 2026)
- Country
- China
TL;DR
Hydrogen-rich saline can prevent blood clots by reducing platelet activity and has potential as an antithrombotic treatment.
Key Finding
Hydrogen-rich saline inhibited platelet activation and reduced thrombus (blood clot) formation in both laboratory tests and animal models, suggesting potential antithrombotic effects.
Summary
Researchers tested whether hydrogen-rich saline (a solution with dissolved hydrogen gas) could prevent blood clots by studying how it affects platelets (blood cells that form clots). In lab tests and animal studies, hydrogen-rich saline slowed clot formation, reduced platelet clumping, and increased bleeding time. The researchers found that hydrogen appears to work by reducing harmful molecules called free radicals and activating a protective pathway in platelets that involves nitric oxide, a natural blood vessel relaxer.
Practical Takeaway
This animal study provides early evidence that hydrogen may help prevent blood clots through antioxidant mechanisms, but it is not yet clear whether these effects would translate to humans. Much more research, including human trials, would be needed before hydrogen water could be considered for clot prevention. Anyone concerned about thrombosis should consult their healthcare provider about proven preventive strategies.
Abstract (excerpt)
Aims: Hydrogen (H2) has antioxidant effects. The pharmacologic function of H2 in platelets is not yet clear. Therefore, in this study we sought to investigate the inhibitory effects of H2 on in vitro platelet activation and in vivo prevention of thrombus formation. Main methods: After platelets…