Poor circulation can cause many negative effects on the body as well as pain and discomfort. Dry skin can become a nuisance while also causing irritation and itchiness. There are a variety of things you can do right in your home to help prevent and reduce the discomfort of poor circulation and dry skin.
Essential oils
There are a variety of essential oils that can help improve poor circulation by improving the health of blood vessels and stimulating blood flow. These can be used in an essential oil diffuser, applied topically, or added to your bathwater. Eucalyptus can promote better circulation through the relaxation of blood vessels. Cyprus flushes out toxins which results in better overall health and improved blood flow. Ginger warms the skin and vessels and also contains antioxidants.
Compression Clothing
Compression clothing is designed to improve lymphatic drainage and stagnant blood flow in the muscles. It has also been shown to reduce the build-up of lactic acid. For poor circulation in the legs, you may want to buy compression socks. These are specialized socks specifically designed to create pressure on the muscles in the feet, ankles, and legs. They can also help to reduce swelling in the feet while improving circulation in the legs.
Keep Hydrated
Our bodies are made up of approximately 55 to 60 percent water. Therefore, it makes sense that a body will react negatively through the appearance of dry skin if it is not hydrated enough. It is important to maintain fluid balance in the body, an important aspect of homeostasis. It is commonly recommended by health authorities that we drink approximately eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to maintain optimal hydration.
Change Your Diet
There are many foods that are natural blood thinners. They improve circulation and you will want to incorporate them into your diet. Fruits such as oranges are natural blood thinners, and watermelon is high in lycopene. Raw nuts such as walnuts and almonds are high in magnesium, iron, and vitamins A, B, C, and E which can improve blood circulation. Green tea is high in antioxidants which widen the blood vessels to increase blood flow. Ginkgo Biloba is also packed full of antioxidants. It can be used as a preventative or for reversing poor circulation.
By taking a few simple steps at home, you can alleviate many of the discomforts associated with poor circulation and dry skin. Simply adding essential oils to your bath, wearing compression socks, changing the way you eat, and making sure that you are getting enough water each day can go a long way to improving your overall health.
