For centuries, acupuncture has been used to encourage blood flow and improve circulation. In 1996, the World Health Organization (WHO) noted that acupuncture offers several benefits in managing pain and treating neurological disorders, dermatological conditions, respiratory disorders, and more.
Healthy blood circulation is a vital component of life for human beings. Our blood carries fresh oxygen, hormones and all of the nutrients we absorb from our food during the digestion process. If the circulatory system is out of whack, the organs and tissues of the body become depleted, weakened and eventually stop functioning. Any blockages in the veins or arteries can deprive the brain and the rest of the body from the needed oxygen which can cause heart attacks, blood clots and strokes.
A Circulation Overview
Pain, numbness, tingling, cold hands and feet and irregular heartbeats are all indications of poor blood flow. How do you know if you have poor circulation? Symptoms of poor blood flow. Another complication of poor circulation is the possibility of blood clots, which can dislodge and travel to the heart, lungs or brain, blocking major blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack or a stroke.
Modern medicine treats poor circulation using prescription medications, angioplasty, surgical placement of stents and, in the worst cases -- amputation. All of these treatments can have serious side effects and surgical interventions can have extensive recovery periods.
Fortunately, natural, non-invasive alternatives DO exist.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient medical system that has been around for thousands of years. TCM uses modalities like acupuncture, acupressure and herbal formulations to treat the effects of poor circulation, while actually addressing the root causes of poor circulation:
- Acupuncture is an effective solution for increasing blood circulation because the use of acupuncture needles stimulate nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a key regulator of localized circulation. Therefore, the more nitric oxide, the greater the blood flow and circulation to the tissues. Acupuncture treatments have been shown to stimulate the release of compounds like leukotrienes and antihistamines that both dilate the blood vessels and reduce swelling of tissues. This leads to increases in blood flow to the areas of the body deprived of oxygenated blood.
- Certain Foods such as watermelon and oranges improve blood flow and circulation in the body. Watermelon contains high amounts of lycopene, which improves circulation while preventing heart disease. Oranges are beneficial for similar reasons; they are high in vitamin C and are a natural blood thinner. They also strengthen capillary walls.
- Herbal remedies including garlic, cayenne, Butcher’s Broom, green tea and hawthorn berry are helpful in improving blood flow. You can use any of these herbs in the form of capsules, tea, or liquid supplements. Keep in mind that liquid tinctures absorb much faster than consuming them in tea or capsule form.
Thrive, not Throb
Poor circulation can be painful and debilitating, but Princeton Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can help. Our TCM and acupuncture remedies are natural, holistic approaches to healing the body. Our treatment begins with a thorough intake and evaluation, followed by a comprehensive diagnosis and customized treatment plan. We will help you thrive, not just survive! Schedule a consultation today.
Princeton Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Our patients know just how effective treatments are for these and a host of other problems. Steven Hoffman, a New Jersey Licensed Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine, will provide you with a thorough intake and evaluation and a clear, comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan that will insure that your goals are met or exceeded. Do you want to move past these or other problems? We will help you thrive not just survive!