How to Improve Blood Circulation Naturally
By Dr (TCM) Attilio D'Alberto | Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Wokingham
Good circulation is fundamental to health. Every cell in the body depends on blood to deliver oxygen and nutrients and to remove metabolic waste. In traditional Chinese medicine, the smooth flow of qi and blood through the meridians and vessels is one of the central requirements for health — and blood stasis, the TCM term for impaired circulation, is implicated in an enormous range of conditions from chronic pain and headaches to endometriosis, fibroids, and poor egg quality. Improving circulation is therefore one of the most broadly beneficial things you can do for your health.
Signs of Poor Circulation
Common signs include cold hands and feet, numbness or tingling in the extremities, Raynaud's phenomenon, varicose veins, slow wound healing, chronic fatigue, and a dusky or purplish complexion. In women, poor pelvic circulation contributes to menstrual clots, dark menstrual blood, period pain, and fertility problems.
Acupuncture for Circulation
Acupuncture is one of the most effective tools for improving circulation. Research has demonstrated measurable improvements in peripheral and uterine blood flow following acupuncture treatment, via vasodilation, nitric oxide release, and modulation of the autonomic nervous system. Points on the spleen, liver, and heart meridians are most commonly used for systemic circulation; local points address specific areas of stasis.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Blood-moving herbs are a cornerstone of Chinese herbal medicine. The most important include Dan Shen (salvia) — extensively researched for its cardiovascular and microcirculatory effects; Chuan Xiong — a key blood-moving herb for the head and upper body; Hong Hua (safflower) — one of the principal herbs for moving blood stasis; and Tao Ren (peach kernel). Classical blood-moving formulas include Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang and Tao Hong Si Wu Tang.
Evidence-Based Supplements
Several supplements have good clinical evidence for improving circulation. Ginkgo biloba (see our full article) improves peripheral and cerebral microcirculation. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce platelet aggregation and improve blood viscosity. Vitamin E is a natural anticoagulant. L-arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, the primary vasodilator. Nattokinase — an enzyme derived from fermented soya — has evidence for dissolving fibrin and reducing blood viscosity.
Lifestyle and Dietary Measures
Regular exercise — particularly walking, swimming, and yoga — is the single most important lifestyle intervention for circulation. Even 30 minutes of brisk walking daily significantly improves peripheral vascular health. Staying hydrated reduces blood viscosity. Dietary additions that support circulation include oily fish, berries, beetroot, garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Smoking is the most damaging lifestyle factor for vascular health and should be stopped.
To discuss circulation or blood stasis with me, contact me or book a consultation in Wokingham.
