Peripheral circulation problems affect more and more people, regardless of age, leading to sensations of numbness, cold extremities, tingling, and even pain. This type of poor circulation is often ignored until complications arise. Fortunately, nature offers excellent remedies, and the following combination of just three plants has proven effective in supporting blood vessels and stimulating circulation in peripheral areas: Ginkgo biloba, horse chestnut, and ginger.
What does this remedy contain and how does it work?
1. Ginkgo biloba (Memory and circulation leaf)
- How it works: Ginkgo biloba extract improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing blood viscosity. It has a vasodilating effect on capillaries and small arteries.
- Direct effect: Increases oxygen supply to the extremities (hands and feet), reduces the sensation of cold and numbness.
A study published in Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology (2013) showed that Ginkgo biloba significantly improves cerebral and peripheral blood flow, especially in cases of chronic circulatory insufficiency.
2. Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum)
- How it works: Rich in escin, an active compound that strengthens blood vessel walls and reduces inflammation and edema. It is an exceptional venous tonic.
- Direct effect: Improves the elasticity of veins, reduces venous stasis, and the sensation of heaviness or swelling in the legs.
Important notes:
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It must be horse chestnut, not edible (do not consume raw in any form!).
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Use crushed seeds, not whole, to allow the alcohol to extract the active substances.
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Do not peel (leave the shiny brown skin), but they can be coarsely chopped with a knife or crushed with a hammer.
The journal Phytomedicine (2020) mentions that horse chestnut extract is comparable in efficacy to some venotonic medications in treating chronic venous insufficiency.
3. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- How it works: Stimulates circulation through its vasodilating and warming action. Ginger contains gingerol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and mild anticoagulant effects.
- Direct effect: Warms the extremities, combats vascular stiffness, and reduces muscle discomfort associated with poor circulation.
An article published in Thrombosis Research (2015) showed that ginger can reduce platelet aggregation, having a similar effect to aspirin in preventing microthrombi.
Simple recipe: Combined tincture for peripheral circulation
Ingredients:
- 30 g dried Ginkgo biloba leaves
- 30 g crushed horse chestnut seeds
- It must be horse chestnut, not edible (do not consume raw in any form!).
- 20 g fresh ginger root (finely grated)
- 500 ml of 40-50% alcohol (vodka or medicinal alcohol)
Preparation method:
- Place the plants in a dark glass jar.
- Pour the alcohol over them and seal tightly.
- Let it macerate for 3 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid and store it in a dropper bottle, in a cool, dark place.
Usage method:
- Internally: 20-30 drops twice a day, diluted in a little water, before meals.
- Externally (optional): a few drops diluted in olive oil or neutral cream, gently massaged on cold hands and feet.
Contraindications and precautions
- Ginkgo biloba may interact with anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin). Avoid administration before surgical procedures.
- Horse chestnut should not be administered to individuals with severe liver conditions or active gastric ulcers.
- Ginger is contraindicated in active gastric ulcers and during pregnancy in high doses.
- Not to be administered to children under 12 years, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice.
- Consult a doctor if you are undergoing chronic treatments or have cardiovascular diseases.
This combined remedy of Ginkgo biloba, horse chestnut, and ginger has a synergistic action on peripheral circulation, stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation, and improving vascular tone. Used regularly and accompanied by movement and a balanced diet, it can bring real benefits in combating the sensation of cold, tired, or numb hands and feet.
Sources:
- The effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on blood flow in chronic cerebral insufficiency Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, 2013
- Aesculus hippocastanum extract in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency: a meta-analysis Phytomedicine, 2020
- Antiplatelet activity of gingerols from ginger (Zingiber officinale) Thrombosis Research, 2015
- Herbal medicines in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016
