Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition in which cold temperatures or strong emotions cause blood vessel spasms that block blood flow to the fingers, toes, ears, and nose. It is caused by spasms in the blood vessels reducing the flow of blood to the affected areas, and can be brought on by low external temperature or stress. Strong emotion or exposure to the cold causes the fingers, toes, ears, or nose to become white, then turn blue. When blood flow returns, the area becomes red and then later returns to normal color. The attacks may last from minutes to hours.
In this condition, the vasospasm, which is a tissue in the walls of blood vessel muscles, becomes unable to react over the atmospheric stress, especially to the cold weather. Carbo vegetabilis remedy have very cold extremities and often look pale and feel weak or faint, with a strong desire for moving air, and a tendency toward indigestion. Ginkgo biloba is an extremely effective herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and derived from one of the oldest trees on earth. Active ingredients of Ginkgo include flavone glycosides, bioflavins, sitosterol, lactones and anthocyanin. Beneficial effects of Ginkgo on circulation can help to prevent tissue damage and poor circulation associated with Raynaud’s disease. One should apply a nice foot powder, so that the feet remain dry and moisture free.
Chelidonium remedy may be helpful with Raynaud’s disease if the person also has a tendency toward pain. Zinziber officinalis is more commonly known as Ginger and has a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine. Chinese herbalists often recommend this “hot” herb to treat conditions involving difficulties with cold, including the cold fingers caused by Raynaud’s. Rosmarinus officinale (Rosemary) dilates and strengthens blood vessels and increases peripheral and cerebral circulation. Rosemary is an invigorating herb, relieving depression and imparting a zest for life often helpful in preventing fatigue and stress. Veratrum album remedy may be indicated for icy coldness and paleness-even blueness-with a sensation of cramping in the tips of the extremities.
