-IBIS-1.7.6-
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cardiovascular system
Poor circulation
Integrative Therapies

Home Care

People with poor circulation often experience coldness in their hands and feet that may turn to tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation.

THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:

1. Vitamin E – This aids in blood flow to the hands and feet. Start with 400 Units once a day for several days then increase to 4 times a day. Have your blood pressure checked to make sure it has not risen. If the blood pressure is normal, this dosage can be continued for 2 months. Cut the dosage down gradually to a maintenance level of 800 Units per day.

2. Vitamin B3 (also known as Niacin) – The correct dose will cause a hot flush of the skin that lasts 5 to10 minutes. Start with 100 milligrams 3 times a day. Adjust the dose until you feel a slight flushing of your skin. Limit the use to 2 to 3 months. Niacin should not be taken by people with liver problems.


HERBS USED FOR POOR CIRCULATION:

1. Use a tincture (which is a liquid herbal extract) of the following two herbs:

• Prickly Ash – 1/4 of an ounce
• Witch Hazel – 3/4 of an ounce

Mix these and take 30 drops of the mixture 3 times a day.

2. Cayenne pepper – 1 capsule 3 times a day.

3. Kelp, which has natural iodine – 1 tablet 3 times a day.

4. Gingko Biloba – This herb has the double benefit of increasing blood flow to the extremities and the brain. Taken in a capsule form - 40 milligrams, 3 times a day. If used as a tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract - 30 drops 3 times a day in a little water.


HOMEOPATHY:

• Psorinum 30c: Dissolve 3 pellets under the tongue. Use only once a week for 2 or 3 months.


ADDITIONAL MEASURES FOR POOR CIRCULATION INCLUDE:

1. Using a salt rubdown to invigorate your skin. Moisten common salt and rub it briskley over your body, especially the parts that are cold. Then rinse with a shower. Do not use on diseased or cut skin.

2. You can also put a small amount of powdered Cayenne Pepper or Rosemary herb in in your socks or gloves to warm your skin.

3. Daily aerobic exercise is essential in improving circulation to the extremities. If you are out of shape, start gradually and work up to 30 to 60 minutes a day. Consult a physician before starting an exercise program.

4. Consider buying special massage sandals which press tiny rubber bumps against your feet. They stimulate or massage your feet as you walk, even if you wear them only 10 minutes twice a day.

If you suffer from varicose veins, refer to the article on that topic.


Clinic

Footnotes

BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.