What helps blood circulation
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Effective Methods for Improving Blood Circulation
Blood circulation is crucial for maintaining overall health, as it ensures the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and the removal of waste products. Various methods have been studied to enhance blood circulation, including traditional Chinese medicine, dietary supplements, physical exercise, and pharmacological interventions. This article synthesizes the findings from multiple research studies on these methods.
Traditional Chinese Medicine for Blood Circulation
Taoren-Honghua Herb Pair
The Taoren-Honghua (TH) herb pair, consisting of Persicae Semen (Taoren) and Carthami Flos (Honghua), has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to promote blood circulation and dissipate blood stasis. Research has shown that TH and its main components, amygdalin and hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA), significantly improve hemorheological parameters in rats. These components decrease whole blood viscosity, plasma viscosity, and packed cell volume, and they also reduce platelet aggregation and protect vascular endothelial cells.
Chinese Herbal Medicines for Deep Venous Thrombosis
Chinese herbal medicines promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis (PBCRBSM) have been found effective in preventing deep venous thrombosis (DVT) after total hip arthroplasty. These medicines reduce the incidence of DVT, improve blood flow velocity, and have fewer adverse effects compared to Western medicines like low molecular weight heparin and aspirin.
Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage
PBCRBS therapy has also shown promise in treating acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). It improves neurological function, reduces hematoma volume, and lowers mortality rates with fewer adverse effects compared to conventional Western medications.
Dietary Supplements
Ecklonia Cava Extract
Ecklonia cava extract (ECE) and its component pyrogallol-phloroglucinol-6,6-bieckol (PPB) have been shown to improve blood circulation in diet-induced obese and hypertensive mouse models. PPB reduces adhesion molecule expression, endothelial cell death, and excessive vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, thereby improving blood pressure and lipid profiles.
Ginkgo Biloba Extract
Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is another dietary supplement known for its beneficial effects on blood circulation. It has been confirmed to improve conditions related to blood circulation disorders, such as hyperlipidemia and arteriosclerosis.
Physical Exercise
Yoga
Yoga exercises significantly enhance blood circulation by increasing heart rate, blood volume, and the formation of new capillaries. Yoga breathing techniques oxygenate the blood, helping fresh nutrients reach peripheral vessels and capillaries. Regular yoga practice can prevent circulatory ailments like high blood pressure, muscle tension, and coronary heart disease.
Pharmacological Interventions
Splanchnic Circulation Modulation
In patients with liver cirrhosis undergoing liver transplantation, modulating splanchnic circulation using vasoconstrictors like terlipressin can optimize blood volume management. This approach minimizes venous congestion, enhances renal perfusion, and protects against acute kidney injury by shifting blood from the splanchnic to systemic circulation.
Conclusion
Improving blood circulation can be achieved through various methods, including traditional Chinese medicine, dietary supplements, physical exercise, and pharmacological interventions. Each method offers unique benefits and can be tailored to individual needs and conditions. Further research and clinical trials are essential to fully understand and optimize these approaches for enhancing blood circulation.
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