Blood circulation occurs in the channels of the cardiovascular system -- veins, arteries and capillaries -- that carry blood to the organs in the body. When obstructions occur, such as blood clots, weakened blood vessels and arterial plaque, taking medicinal treatments may be necessary to restore normal blood flow. Discuss the use of herbs for circulatory support with a medical care provider.
Cayenne
Cayenne originated in South America where its use as a culinary and medicinal spice spans thousands of years. Cayenne treats poor circulation. Cayenne works by breaking up clumps of red bloods cells in the bloodstream, which improves blood flow. If your doctor approves, stimulate the blood by orally taking the spice's pill or tincture form.
Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut is well known as a medicinal herb for circulation support. Disorders it treats include hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Varicose veins occur when the surface veins in the legs weaken and cause pain, visible veins and skin that itches over the affected area. Horse chestnut contains the compound aescin, an anti-inflammatory and tissue supportive chemical responsible for the herb's vein repair function, according herbalist Amanda McQuade Crawford.
Bilberry
The active constituents in bilberry, found in the herb's fruit, are called anthocyanosides, which contain high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants improve the integrity of blood vessel walls by preventing LDL cholesterol from rancidifying, a significant contributor to atherosclerosis. These functions clear the path of blood, improving blood flow to the extremities, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E discourages blood platelet aggregation, according to nutritionist Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." She recommends taking a vitamin E supplement to improve blood flow. The vitamin is also a powerful antioxidant, which protects cholesterol in the blood vessel walls from oxidizing and causing obstructions to blood flow.
References
- "The Herb Companion": Winter Health: 7 Warming Herbs
- "The Herb Companion": Herb to Know: Horse Chestnut
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Bilberry
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2010
