Poor circulation is connected to many common conditions, such as high blood pressure, headaches, and fatigue. Optimal circulatory health on the other hand is a foundational component of well-being. There are many natural herbs for blood circulation that can be used to increase blood flow and to benefit the symptoms of and conditions related to poor circulatory health. Learn about some of the best natural herbs for improving blood circulation and how to use them safely.
Symptoms of Poor Blood Circulation
Do you have poor circulation? When is it helpful to try herbal remedies for better circulatory health? Circulatory problems can be caused by a range of issues, from poor diet and tobacco smoking to obesity and arteriosclerosis. Whatever the cause or underlying factors, if you experience the symptoms of poor blood circulation it is important to talk to your doctor to discern what the problem is. Discuss your well-being with a health care professional before taking herbs for circulation, especially if you are pregnant, have a serious medical condition, or are taking any type of prescription medication.
Common symptoms include low energy levels and reduced stamina, poor memory, frequent muscle cramps, dizzy spells, edema, varicose veins, shortness of breath, cold extremities, slow wound healing, and numbness of the hands, feet, and toes. As all organs require a rich supply of oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to thrive, when circulation is poor the entire body suffers, with a particular effect on the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys.
Helpful Herbs That Increase Blood Flow
The following are all herbs that are beneficial for blood circulation. Except for hawthorn, which has a normalizing effect on blood flow, all of these herbs act as stimulants to the circulatory system. They are safe for general use, but should be used under the supervision of an herbalist if you have heart disease.
- Cayenne not only stimulates blood flow but it also strengthens the heart and blood vessels, making it an overall tonic for cardiovascular health.
- Prickly ash has a similar effect on the circulatory system to cayenne, although it works gradually. It is ideal in cases of muscle cramps and varicose veins due to poor circulation.
- Garlic will reduce high blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels when taken over time, thus greatly improving blood circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Ginger is a warming, stimulating herb that is very effective for treating general poor circulation.
- Rosemary stimulates both the circulatory and nervous systems.
- Hawthorn is an important tonic for the entire cardiovascular system. While it is perfect for poor circulation that is related to high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, and angina, it should be used under supervision.
How to Use Herbs for Blood Circulation
One of the simplest ways to use these herbs is to make an herbal infusion. Infuse two teaspoons of dried herbs in one cup of boiling water for ten minutes. Cover while the tea steeps. Drink one to three cups daily. This method is ideal for prickly ash, ginger, rosemary, and hawthorn. To make cayenne tea use one teaspoon of the powder for one cup of boiling water. Take one tablespoon of this solution and mix it with one cup of hot water. Garlic is most potent when eaten raw. You can also take garlic supplements.
Another way to treat poor circulation with botanical medicine is to take an herbal bath. Soaking in hot water in itself will increase blood flow throughout the body. Add one once of dried rosemary or ginger to a muslin bag and add to bath water. Try rosemary and peppermint for a relaxing herbal bath for circulatory health. Add five drops of neroli essential oil to the ginger bath for an incredibly soothing, healing bath for improved blood flow.
Use herbs to increase circulation if you are experiencing the typical symptoms of poor circulation, such as numbness, muscle cramping, headaches, and fatigue. If circulatory problems are due to hypertension, arteriosclerosis, or angina, make sure you talk to your doctor about your health first. You can also simply enjoy the benefits of these herbal remedies if you want a little natural invigoration and increased well-being.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
Hoffmann, David. The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies. Element Books, 1996.
NativeRemedies Website. "What is Poor Circulation?" (accessed October 1, 2010).
Brenna Coleman - Brenna is a freelance writer focusing on natural health and beauty. She has written hundreds of articles, helping readers find ways to ...
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