How to improve blood circulation naturally
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Natural Methods to Improve Blood Circulation
Improving blood circulation is essential for overall health and can be achieved through various natural methods. This article synthesizes research findings on several natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can enhance blood flow.
Traditional Chinese Medicine: Taoren-Honghua Herb Pair
Taoren-Honghua (TH) Herb Pair
The Taoren-Honghua (TH) herb pair, consisting of Persicae Semen (Taoren) and Carthami Flos (Honghua), has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote blood circulation and dissipate blood stasis. Research indicates that TH can significantly decrease whole blood viscosity, plasma viscosity, and packed cell volume. It also prolongs thrombin time and thromboplastin time, increases prothrombin time, and lowers fibrinogen content. These effects are primarily due to its main components, amygdalin and hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA), which reduce platelet aggregation and protect vascular endothelial cells.
Dietary Supplements: Ecklonia Cava and Ginkgo Biloba
Ecklonia Cava Extract (ECE)
Ecklonia cava extract (ECE) has shown promise in improving blood circulation, particularly in diet-induced obese and hypertensive mouse models. The active compound pyrogallol-phloroglucinol-6,6-bieckol (PPB) from ECE significantly reduces adhesion molecule expression, endothelial cell death, and excessive vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. It also lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making it a valuable component in functional foods aimed at enhancing blood circulation.
Ginkgo Biloba Extract (GBE)
Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is well-known for its circulatory benefits. Studies have demonstrated that GBE can modulate blood flow in healthy individuals. It has a vasoregulatory role, meaning it can either increase or decrease blood flow depending on the individual's baseline blood flow. This multi-directional action makes GBE a versatile supplement for improving circulation.
Traditional Foods: Red Yeast Rice
Red Yeast Rice
Red yeast rice, a traditional Chinese food, has been used for centuries to improve blood circulation. It contains metabolites from the monacolin family, fatty acids, and trace elements, which contribute to its cholesterol-lowering properties. These compounds help in maintaining healthy blood flow and reducing the risk of circulatory disorders.
Herbal Therapies: Qi-Supplementing and Blood-Activating Herbs
Qi-Supplementing and Blood-Activating Herbs
Chinese herbs that supplement qi, nourish yin, and activate blood circulation have shown significant benefits for heart function, especially in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). These herbs improve left ventricular ejection fraction, reduce blood stasis syndrome scores, and decrease the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events. This combination therapy enhances overall heart function and circulation.
Green Tea-Based Supplements
Green Tea-Based Supplements (GBS)
Green tea-based supplements (GBS) have been found to enhance blood flow, particularly after exercise. A higher dose of GBS (600 mg) significantly increased brachial artery blood flow post-exercise compared to a placebo. This suggests that green tea can be an effective natural remedy for improving localized blood flow, especially in physically active individuals.
Conclusion
Improving blood circulation naturally can be achieved through various methods, including traditional Chinese herbs, dietary supplements, and specific foods. The Taoren-Honghua herb pair, Ecklonia cava extract, Ginkgo biloba extract, red yeast rice, qi-supplementing and blood-activating herbs, and green tea-based supplements all show promising results in enhancing blood flow and overall circulatory health. Incorporating these natural remedies into your lifestyle can provide significant benefits for maintaining healthy blood circulation.
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