Poor circulation is a common issue that can cause a variety of discomforts and symptoms. The most prevalent symptom of poor circulation is feeling persistently cold, particularly in the hands and feet. This can be indicative of several underlying health conditions such as diabetes, Raynaud's disease, hypothyroidism and anorexia nervosa as well as certain medications such as beta-blockers. Chilblains are another symptom of poor circulation, they are the body's natural defense mechanism to cold, where small veins and arteries in the body narrow, leading to discomfort, irritation and swelling. Acrocyanosis, characterized by the discoloration of the face, hands or feet appearing mottled red or blue, accompanied by either sweating or coldness and swelling is also symptom of poor circulation.
There are several natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help to improve circulation and alleviate symptoms.
Here are a few options to consider:
- A mixture of uncooked, fresh minced cayenne pepper and ginger is known to be a potent and effective remedy for improving circulation.
- Crushing ginger and adding it to green tea can also help increase blood flow and improve circulation.
- Drinking 35% Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide in water, 5 drops 3x daily may help to improve circulation as well.
- Another remedy is to mix Cayenne pepper with 2 Tbsp. ACV and 1 Tbsp. blackstrap molasses, consume 1/2 tsp. 2x daily.
- Consuming coconut oil in the morning, 3 Tbsp. can help improve circulation, Geranium Essential Oil can also be added and used as a massage oil to enhance blood flow.
- Cold showers, consuming Vitamin K, one capsule daily, Anthocyanin (found in red grapes), Pennywort, Vitamin E in large doses, Arginine and Butcher's Broom, 1-2 capsules daily, have all been known to improve circulation.
- Lugol's Iodine can also be used as a treatment to cure coldness in the extremities caused by hypothyroidism. Start with 1 drop in a glass of water 2x a day and work up to 2 to 4 drops 2x a day.
- Fluoride in drinking water can cause hypothyroidism, so drinking purchased non-fluoridated water may help improve circulation and limiting exposure to tap water in cooking or bathing during test period can be beneficial
It is important to remember that everyone's body is different and what may work for some may not work for others. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new remedies or supplements as some may interact with any current medication or health condition you may have.