Blood circulation is the movement of blood to and from the heart through the body's system of veins and arteries. Problems with circulation are relatively common and can range from minor importance, such as cold hands and feet, to the more serious blocked blood vessels, according to MedlinePlus. Treatments include exercise, adopting a healthy diet and abstaining from harmful behaviors such as smoking. There are also herbal remedies, which in some cases have been used for centuries. When adding herbal treatments to your health care regimen, be sure to consult a qualified medical provider.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper has long been used to improve blood circulation. The spice confers this health effect by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels, platelet aggregation and inflammation of the blood vessels, which can improve the pathways for blood flow. Historically, cultures that have used cayenne pepper regularly in their cuisine are known to have a lower rate of cardiovascular disease compared with other groups, according to the Epicentre. As treatment for the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, the Epicentre recommends using topical cayenne creams and ointments that can increase the flow of nutrients to the site of the affected joints. Topical treatments that include cayenne can cause skin irritation. Always discuss herbal remedies with a practitioner before using them.
Gingko Biloba
Gingko biloba, as a medicinal herb, has primarily been used as a treatment for circulatory support. In fact, the medicinal herb is harvested from a tree that is believed to be the oldest in the world and may have existed as long as 200 million years ago, according to website Botanical-Online. Gingko is thought to work by dilating blood vessels, which opens the pathways for blood flow. The active constituent responsible for the cardiovascular benefits of the herb, according to Botanical-Online, is the flavonoid content that opens veins and arteries and discourages platelets from aggregating. Gingko may confer the following positive effects: lowers blood pressure, treats atherosclerosis and improves leg, brain and eye circulation. Botanical-Online recommends a dosage of 60 mg to 240 mg per day taken in three divided doses. Larger quantities of gingko can cause sleep irregularities, vomiting, loose stool and anxiety. Be sure to consult a qualified health provider prior to taking gingko medicinally.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn has a history of treating cardiovascular disorders that goes as far back as the first century, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hawthorn's berries are believed to contain the active constituents of the herb and have been used to treat circulatory issues such as high blood pressure, hardening of the arteries and blood circulation disorders. The antioxidants found in hawthorn berries are considered the compounds responsible for the plant's positive benefits; they may help prevent some of the cardiovascular damage free radicals cause in the body. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 160 mg to 900 mg of hawthorn berry daily for at least 6 weeks to treat circulatory disorders. The supplement should be standardized to 2 percent to 3 percent flavonoids. Side effects are not common, but may include nausea, headache and heart palpitations.
