Blood flow, also known as circulation, is the movement of blood throughout your blood vessels. Healthy circulation is essential for optimal health. Your circulatory system, notes the KidsHealth website, is comprised of approximately 60,000 miles of blood vessels and is responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients to all cells in your body. Before using herbs to help support good blood flow, review procedures, alternatives and risks with your primary care provider.
Poor Circulation
Circulation problems are commonly caused by vascular diseases, such as the accumulation of plaque within your arteries and the hardening of your arteries. MedlinePlus states that vascular diseases more often manifest in older individuals, although factors other than advanced age may contribute to this health problem. These include chronic cigarette smoking, obesity, pregnancy, a family history of vascular diseases and certain conditions that injure or damage your blood vessels, including diabetes. In severe cases, vascular diseases may cause your blood vessels to rupture, which can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding.
Helpful Herbs
Many herbal remedies may be beneficial in supporting good blood flow. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner states that certain herbs are circulatory stimulants, or possess the ability to stimulate normal blood flow throughout your body. Examples of these herbs are cayenne, prickly ash bark, burdock, ginger, ginkgo, ginseng, rosemary, gotu kola and hawthorne. Further scientific research evidence may be needed to evaluate these herbs' true health effects and efficacy.
Herb in Focus
Ginkgo, or Ginkgo biloba, may be a particularly useful herbal remedy in supporting good blood flow. Ginkgo, notes medical doctor Alan R. Gaby, author of "The Natural Pharmacy," may help prevent circulatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis, and has traditionally been used in treating intermittent claudication and Raynaud's disease -- two unique cardiovascular conditions. Ginkgo may boost blood flow to your limbs and brain, help decrease platelet stickiness and may help prevent strokes. Further research evidence into this herb's health actions may be required.
Additional Information
Herbal remedies are an important inclusion in any treatment plan that attempts to enhance your blood flow, although certain herbs may cause unwanted health effects in some individuals. Only use herbs for this health purpose if you are under the care and guidance of a licensed health care professional. Your family physician can counsel you on the risks, benefits, limitations and possible drug interactions associated with herbs historically used in enhancing blood flow. Not all herbs may be appropriate for you or this health consideration.
References
- KidsHealth: Heart and Circulatory System
- MedlinePlus: Vascular Diseases
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
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