General characteristics

Raynaud's disease (or Raynaud's phenomenon) is a condition affecting the peripheral circulation in the small blood vessels. The extremities such as the fingers, toes, nose and ears can be affected.

In response to cold weather or conditions, the capillaries in the extremities naturally constrict a little to conserve heat. In Raynaud's disease, these overreact to the cold and capillaries go into spasm, constricting so much so that blood flow in the area is severely restricted. The fingers/toes suffer from a lack of blood and appear swollen and white or blueish red in colour. In severe cases the affected blood vessels may become damaged and result in gangrene.

The condition ultimately results from poor nervous control over the blood vessels (reason unknown) but can also arise from so called autoimmune disorders, as a symptom of other illnesses, a side effect from some medications, injury or overuse of the hands for example. It is also more common in women and migraine sufferers (another spasmodic condition of blood vessels).

Useful herbs

Ginkgo is a useful herb for encouraging proper blood flow throughout the body.

Cayenne (chilli), sage, ginger, garlic and cinnamon all help to thin the blood making it easier to move through the smaller peripheral blood vessels.

Prickly ash is a specific herb for encouraging blood flow to the peripheral blood vessels.

Angelica root will also improve blood flow to the peripheries and provide a warm feeling to the whole body when needed.

Antispasmodic herbs such as cramp bark can relax and dilate blood vessels, prevent them from going into spasm.

Yarrow has a tonic action on the whole of the circulatory vessels so would be a great addition to tea  or tincture mixes.