Blood circulation may be impeded for any number of reasons including clogged arteries, capillary constriction or cardiovascular disease. Certain foods, supplements and herbs may be helpful in improving blood flow and reducing pain or disability. Some herbs can produce side effects, so before using new herbal products, consult your health practitioner.
Hawthorn
The herb hawthorn is used to strengthen the walls of the heart and as a tonic to improve circulation and overall cardiovascular health, according to the "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Hawthorn may be helpful in lowering blood pressure for some people; however, it can produce side effects. You should only use hawthorn under the supervision of a health practitioner who is familiar with using this herb.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba may help increase your memory and improve circulation to your head by dilating the blood vessels, allowing better blood flow, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The ginkgo leaves contain terpenoids and flavonoids, two substances high in antioxidants and showing promise for lowering blood pressure and preventing heart disease. Consult your health practitioner for instructions and dosing guidelines before using ginkgo.
Inositol
Inositol hexaniacinate is a variation of one of the B vitamins that has been found to be helpful for increasing peripheral circulation in the capillaries for those suffering from Raynaud's disease and other ailments causing capillary constriction, according to the University of Michigan Health System. High doses of inositol are necessary for this treatment and only your doctor or health practitioner should administer it.
Evening Primrose Oil
Another treatment that has shown some success for treating Raynaud's disease and increasing circulation to the extremities is evening primrose oil, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Evening primrose oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids and inhibits the chemicals that promote constriction of the small blood vessels. Consult your health practitioner for usage guidelines and dosing instructions.
Rauwolfia Serpentina
Rauwolfia serpentina, also called Indian snakeroot, may help some people reduce hypertension and increase overall blood flow and circulation, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." The alkaloids in Rauwolfia affect an individual's blood pressure and cardiovascular function, especially if their condition is related to high anxiety or stress, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Rauwolfia contains the alkaloid respirine, which can produce serious side effects. This herb should only be taken under the supervision of a trained herbalist or other health practitioner familiar with its use.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginkgo biloba
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- University of Michigan Health System: Raynaud's Disease
- University of Michigan Health System: Hypertension
