Herbs and Supplements that Improve Circulation

Poor circulation and varicose and spider veins typically go hand in hand. Circulation problems can lead to vein problems and vein problems can cause circulation problems. With this in mind, it’s important to take whatever steps you can to improve your circulation. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, taking hourly breaks from jobs that require sitting or standing all day, exercising regularly, wearing compression stockings, and avoiding tight clothing and accessories. You may also consider taking some circulation-friendly supplements or making sure you include more of these herbs and other supplements in your diet.

1. Parsley
Next time you garnish your meal with a little fresh parsley, consider eating it, too. Many supplements aimed at improving circulation include the herb because it can help open up the blood vessels so that blood moves more freely through the body. Parsley is also rich in vitamin C, which is essential for blood vessel health.

2. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper has been used for thousands of years for everything from toothaches to headaches, but it can also help improve circulation, thanks to an ingredient called capsicum. As a matter of fact, the minute you eat cayenne pepper or take a supplement, it improves your blood flow almost instantly. Rumor has it that some paramedics keep it on hand and administer it to stroke and heart attack victims. You can take cayenne pepper in supplement form or add it to your meals to get the health benefits.

3. Ginkgo Biloba
German doctors actually use Gingko Biloba to improve their patients’ circulation, along with multiple other health issues. It is thought to improve memory due to increased circulation in the brain, as well as help patients with asthma. It also helps blood get to get the heart faster and even strengthens the blood vessels.

4. Bee Pollen
Many people take bee pollen supplements to combat allergies and colds, but most don’t know that they can also help with circulation. Bee pollen contains an antioxidant called rutin that can strengthen the blood vessels and potentially help prevent blood clots that can lead to serious health problems or even death. It may even help prevent the hardening of your arteries.

5. Cacao
You probably don’t need another reason to eat chocolate, but studies have shown that that the beans that everyone’s favorite sweet treat is made from can help improve the way your circulatory system works. It contains an antioxidant that encourages your body to make more blood vessels which leads to an increase in blood flow. It is also thought to improve the health of your arteries and veins.

6. Hawthorn
When you buy supplements, you may see that many of them contain Hawthorn. That’s because it’s been known to increase circulation by making your heart healthier. Hawthorn may improve your heart’s rhythm by increasing your heart muscle health.
Before you take any kind of herb or supplement, it is important to talk to your doctor about how it may affect you or if it can cause any side effects. Some supplements can interfere with medications you are already taking or aggravate other health issues.