Certain vitamins and herbs can help improve your circulation. Your body contains about 10 pints of blood, continuously traveling through your circulatory system at any given time. The circulatory system consists of your blood vessels, heart and lungs. It's your heart that does most of the work because it pumps the blood through your veins. Do not try to improve your circulation without talking to your doctor first.
Vitamin B-3
Vitamin B-3, or niacin, helps improve circulation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Not only does vitamin B-3 help improve circulation, but it also aids in the reduction of blood cholesterol levels and helps your body make various hormones in the adrenal gland. Vitamin B-3 is a water-soluble vitamin, which means you have to consume it on a daily basis because your body does not store it. You can obtain vitamin B-3 by eating foods such as salmon, beef kidney and liver, brewer's yeast, beets, tuna, peanuts and sunflower seeds.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest species of trees that still exists today, and it's one of the most extensively studied botanicals. Traditionally, ginkgo has been used medicinally to treat circulatory disorders and improve memory. The UMMC says scientific evidence has backed these uses throughout the years. Lab testing has indicated that ginkgo improves your circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of blood platelets. Because ginkgo is among the most studied botanicals, ongoing research is still being conducted to determine additional uses for ginkgo, such as for dementia and other health problems. Sometimes ginkgo leaves are dried for teas, or you can purchase standardized or liquid extracts. Capsules and tablets are also available, but always seek physician approval prior to taking any supplement.
Garlic
Garlic, primarily used to flavor food, has been proven to enhance blood circulation and energy levels, according to a study conducted by Liverpool John Moores University in Liverpool, Britain. The university noted that garlic is used to treat a wide variety of conditions and detailed garlic's antioxidant properties, such as the power to slow aging and improve blood circulation, as well as inhibit platelet aggregation, thrombus formation and cataract formation, as well as rejuvenate skin.
Cayenne
Cayenne, also referred to as capsicum, is used to treat certain conditions, such as cold symptoms and upset stomach, as well as improve blood circulation. It also has been known to relieve pain sensations in your nerves. Cayenne might also be used for other medicinal purposes and is sometimes used to enhance the flavor of foods. Those who are pregnant, nursing or have ulcers of the stomach or bowels are advised not to use cayenne. Cayenne might interact with some medications or dietary supplements.
References
- Franklin Institute: The Human Heart
- University of Maryland Medical Center; "Vitamin B-3 (Niacin)"; Steven Ehrlich; June 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; "Ginkgo Biloba"; Steven Ehrlich; March 2009
- "Aging Research Reviews"; "Garlic and Aging: New Insights Into an Old Remedy"; K. Rahman; January 2003
- Drugs.com; "Capsicum Facts and Comparisons"; July 2011
Member Comments