Poor circulation is the most common cause of cold feet. It could stem from having low blood pressure or not enough exercise in your lifestyle. Severe causes of poor circulation include diabetes, thyroid disorders and atherosclerosis--and smoking also constricts the blood vessels. Less chronic factors include wearing tight shoes or not wearing socks during cold weather. Warming herbs that stimulate circulation are a good natural remedy for cold feet.
Wormwood
Wormwood can be taken internally as a cardiac stimulant to help improve blood circulation, and, if made into a compress, you can apply it externally to relieve pain related to rheumatism and cold feet. Wormwood also stimulates gall-bladder and liver secretions, stimulating your metabolism, and is considered a bitter herb that helps with digestion, warming the body. If taken as a tincture, taste the bitter flavor of wormwood to ignite the digestive fire and the secretion of gastric juices and bile. Place five drops of tincture in 1/4 cup of filtered water, and drink slowly. To prepare a compress, soak a piece of fabric in a tea made with wormwood, and apply topically on your feet while the compress is warm.
Yarrow
Yarrow is another bitter herb that ignites the digestive fire, and it also has resins with astringent properties that help with inflammation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, yarrow lowers blood pressure but stimulates the circulatory system by enhancing blood circulation This helps treat cold feet and also varicose veins, hemorrhoids and thrombosis. To make a yarrow tea, add a pinch of fresh or dry herb to a cup of boiling water. For a tincture, dilute 15 to 20 drops in a cup of water, and take three times a day.
Gentian
The root of gentian is used to improve circulation and purify the blood. Another bitter, it contains amarogentin and gentiopictin glycosides that help protect the liver. It is a valuable digestive stimulant, which warms the body and aids the absorption of nutrients. Take a diluted tincture of 15 to 20 drops in a cup of warm water, and drink slowly before meals.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a circulatory stimulant herb that improves blood flow within seconds of taking it. Capsaicin is the active ingredient in cayenne, and the herb is best taken in powder form. It can induce sweating and, if taken in excess, can cause dizziness. It is best to begin with small amounts of cayenne and build up to a desired dosage. Add cayenne powder to food or smoothies. You also can add half a teaspoon to warm water for immediate results.
