Foods & Herbs To Increase Venous Circulation

Poor circulation has many underlying causes, from atherosclerosis to congested liver to chronic disease. Symptoms of poor venous circulation may include varicose veins or hemorrhoids. Certain foods and herbal medicines may be helpful to increase peripheral circulation. A qualified health care professional, such as a naturopathic physician, can explain the causes of poor circulation and provide a personalized nutritional and herbal plan. Herbs can have strong effects and may interact with certain medications. It's important to consult with a nutritionally and botanically trained health care provider for appropriate herbal combinations, forms and dosages.

Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba is an herb used for a wide variety of circulation problems. The leaf is used medically, and it has a slightly sour taste. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," ginkgo especially increases blood flow to the limbs and head. Therefore, it can help with cold hands and feet, and it can be used when there is compromised blood flow to the brain, causing impaired mental performance. Also, ginkgo may be helpful when atherosclerosis--narrowed arteries--contributes to circulatory problems. Other circulation-related conditions addressed by gingko include Raynaud's disease, intermittent claudication and varicose veins. Gingko may be taken as a tea, liquid extract or capsule.

Ginger

Ginger, also known by its Latin name Zingiber officinalis, has widespread use in botanical medicine, including for circulatory compromise. It acts as a circulatory stimulant. The root is used to make medicine, and it is aromatic with a spicy taste. Dr. Tilgner reports that ginger may be particularly helpful for varicose veins, because it has the ability to break down fibrin, a substance that gets deposited near varicose veins and causes skin to become hard and lumpy. Also, ginger has a heating effect, so it's useful for individuals who feel cold. Ginger may be taken as a tea, liquid extract or capsule. The dried root is hotter than the fresh root. Ginger is a relatively gentle herb, and therefore may be well suited for children and the elderly. However, high doses should not be taken during pregnancy.

Cayenne

Cayenne, of the Capsicum genus, is a hot red chili pepper best known for its use as a spice in cooking. Cayenne has been used therapeutically in traditional Ayurvedic, Chinese, Japanese and Korean medicine systems for digestive difficulties and circulation problems. According to Dr. Tilgner, cayenne is protective against atherosclerosis and blood clots. As a spice, cayenne may be eaten raw or cooked, in the form of fresh or dry pods or as a powder. It's also available as a liquid extract. Like ginger, cayenne is a warming spice and is best suited for individuals who tend to feel chilly.

Berries

Berries of the Vaccinium genus, such as bilberries, huckleberries and blueberries, contain antioxidants that help minimize damage to blood vessels while strengthening their walls. Berries are known to be helpful for circulatory problems such as varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peripheral vascular insufficiency and easy bruising. According to Dr. Tilgner, the berries may be eaten freely, and the leaves may consumed as a tea or liquid extract.