Circulatory problems and chilblains

Poor heart function can contribute to numerous circulation problems which may include severe pain in the legs while walking (intermittent claudication) and Buerger’s disease (common among heavy smokers); this can eventually lead to gangrene and necessitate amputation.

Among more minor circulation problems are chilblains, which are generally associated not with failing hearts but with cold, as the body responds to falling temperatures by constricting blood supply to the peripheries in order to keep vital organs and deep tissues warm.

Wearing adequate clothing on cold days is the easiest way to avoid occasional chilblains, while habitual sufferers can improve their circulation with stimulating herbs like ginger, cinnamon, horseradish and chili.

Recent research suggests that ginkgo can improve the peripheral blood circulation, although it is more traditionally regarded as stimulating the blood supply to the brain. (more…)