Poor circulation can occur when there is an insufficient supply of blood flowing through the veins and arteries. Stress can cause blood vessels to dilate and contract and can short-circuit circulation. Food allergies can also contribute to frequent cold hands and feet. Here’s how to get things moving.
Niacin supplements (50 to 100 mg daily) can be taken for brief periods during extremely cold weather to inhibit spasms of the small arteries.
Culinary herbs that promote circulation include black pepper, cayenne, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, ginger, horseradish, and paprika. This is due to their warming essential oil content, which promotes the movement of chi (energy) in the body. Simply use more of these foods in your cuisine to obtain their benefits.
Ginkgo improves circulation to the body’s extremities by preventing the blood from clumping together. Use one capsule 2 or 3 times daily.
Avoid cold by dressing in layers, wearing a hat, and choosing mittens rather than gloves. Wear red or orange long johns, undershirt, and socks as these colors psychologically make us feel warmer. Breathe more deeply to allow energy to move more readily throughout the body. Protect your extremities with quality lotions.
GOOD TO KNOW!
Extreme cold hand syndrome is known as Raynaud’s disease. It can cause extremities to turn white, then blue or red. The nose and earlobes may also be affected. Pain and numbness can occur with the white and blue stages and a burning sensation with the red stage. Episodes may last for as long as three minutes and up to an hour. See your doctor if this occurs.
This How To Improve Blood Circulation article is taken from :
The Country Almanac of Home Remedies - Brigitte Mars
