Some of the signs of poor circulation are tingling, numbness, pain, cold outer limbs, muscle cramps, swelling, and memory loss. Though these may be due to poor circulation, this condition is a sign of illness or imbalance in the body. To choose the right essential oils, it will be best to know what is causing the poor circulation. Holistic aromatherapy remedies will be beneficial to promote and support healthy circulation.
Essential Oils That May Help
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for poor circulation are:
• Black pepper
• Cedarwood
• Cypress
• Ginger
• Marjoram
Safety First
Talking with your healthcare provider about your symptoms is vital to finding any potentially serious condition. A professional diagnosis will also help direct more accurate essential-oil choices.
How to Use Them
There are a number of natural ways to improve your circulation, including using these aromatherapy techniques.
• Simple massage. Massaging an area can promote healthy circulation. Dilute your chosen essential oil or two in your favorite carrier, and massage on the mixture covering the entire body.
• Soothing soak. Infuse a warm bath with essential oils and Epsom salts to promote circulation.
• Warm compress. Heat supports healthy circulation and is especially beneficial when partnered with anti-inflammatory and vein-tonic essential oils.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Move your body. If you sit at a desk all day, take standing and walking breaks. Exercise daily and see a physical therapist for suggestions to release muscle tension.
• Eat well. Diet is vitally important for healthy circulation. Avoid an inflammatory diet (processed and sugary foods).
• Use herbs for the heart. Supplement with herbal remedies such as garlic, turmeric, ginger, and green tea.
Remedies for Poor Circulation
Try these aromatherapy recipes to improve circulation and promote overall better health.
CIRCULATION BATH BLEND
Cypress, a vein tonic, and anti-inflammatory ginger are good suggestions for improving circulation and blood flow. Add this blend to a warm bath to support circulation throughout the whole body.
12 drops cypress oil
10 drops ginger oil
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 cup Epsom salts
½ cup coarse sea salt
½ cup baking soda
1 dark-glass pint jar
In a large glass bowl, combine the oils. Add in the Epsom salts, sea salt, and baking soda and whisk to combine. Pour the mixture into your jar. Add ¼ to ½ cup of the blend to a hot bath.
COLD-HANDS-AND-FEET MASSAGE
A trio of oils stimulate movement and warmth to the outer extremities.
2 ounces carrier oil
10 drops cedarwood oil
5 drops ginger oil
5 drops black-pepper oil
1 2-ounce dark-glass bottle
Add all of the oils to the glass bottle and shake to blend. Massage the mixture the length of the arms to the hands and legs to the feet. Store in a cool, dark place.
