[toc]Chilblains occur when the capillaries of the lower layers of the skin become congested due to overexposure to cold. This painful condition is characterized by red appearance of the skin and a throbbing ache. Chilblains are often caused by poor circulation. Herbal remedies are very effective in helping people to heal from chilblains and regain healthy skin and good circulation.
Among the various herbs which can be used to treat chilblains are Dandelion, Bearberry, Cayenne Pepper, Rosemary, Lavender, Peppermint, Gingko Biloba, Sweet Clover, Garlic, Myrrh, Stinging Nettle, Eucalyptus, Hawthorn and Bilberry. Remedies can be prepared using these herbs to ensure that a person recovers from chilblains promptly. In this article, we will discuss some of the best herbal remedies for treating chilblains.
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Best Herbal Remedies For Chilblains
Gingko Biloba
Gingko Biloba is a very useful herb for treating chilblains. This is because this herb improves the circulation of the body. This herbal remedy ensures that the small blood vessels are dilated. This improves the flow of blood to different parts of the body including the area affected by chilblains. You can also protect your skin cells from low blood oxygen levels through the use of this herbal remedy. Flavanoids, ginkgolides and terprenes are chemical constituents of Gingko Biloba which help to improve circulation because they are antioxidants which strengthen the blood vessels. Poor circulation resulting from chilblains can be treated using extracts or supplements of this herb, which are readily available.
Ginger
Ginger also known by its Latin name Zinziber Officinalis is a herb which is excellent for improving peripheral circulation problems such as chilblains. This herb can be used as a remedy for chilblains because it heats the skin and eases the poor circulation which is the cause of chilblains. As overexposure to cold causes chilblain, the heating effect of this herbal remedy also eases the pain and restores the skin to its healthy state. You can crush the root of this herb into a fine paste and apply this directly on the areas of your body affected by chilblains. Ginger also contains anti-inflammatory properties, so this herbal remedy also reduces the blisters that result from chilblains.
Rosemary
Known botanically as Rosmarinus Officinalis, this herb is a good remedy for chilblains. You should use essential oils extracted from this herb topically on your skin for relief from chilblains. Applying Rosemary oil on the chilblains causes instant relief as this herb is known to improve both cerebral and peripheral circulation as well. Heat the oil to a slightly warm temperature before applying it and this will invigorate the skin by strengthening the blood vessels in the body. This herbal remedy is very effective for chilblains because chemical compounds in Rosemary dilate the blood vessels and increase circulation.
Bilberry
Bilberry is a herb which has the ability to strengthen the capillaries and improve circulation. This is because one of the chemical constituents of Bilberry which is called anthocyanosides is a flavanoid that is critical for the protection of blood vessels at the time of poor circulation. This makes Bilberry tea an ideal herbal remedy for gaining freedom from chilblains. You can add the dried leaves of this herbaceous plant to boiling water, add other tea leaves if desired and also sweeten this mixture with honey or Stevia leaves. This Bilberry tea should be consumed regularly in order to get relief from chilblains. Bilberry tea is an excellent herbal remedy for chilblains also because Bilberry contains antioxidants which enhance circulation.
Hawthorn
Crataegus Laevigata is the botanical name of this herb and it is native to Europe. The flowers, leaves and berries of this herb are used as a circulatory tonic which strengthens the heart and improves its abilities to supply blood to the areas affected by chilblains. You can eat the dried berries of this herb for best benefits. You can also make a herbal remedy for chilblains using Hawthorn leaves and flowers. Crush the leaves and flowers and steep them in hot water for about 15 minutes. Then, you must strain the liquid and consume it for optimal results. This herbal remedy should not be taken if you are also taking medications which are blood thinners. Avoid using this herbal remedy if you are taking any medication for your heart.
Sweet Clover
Melilotus Officinalis is the Latin name by which Sweet Clover is also referred to. This herb is native to Europe and Asia. Sweet Clover can be used as a herbal remedy for healing chilblains. The stem, flowers and leaves of this herb have amazing medicinal properties and they are used in traditional folk remedies not only for circulation related problems such as chilblains but also inflammations and swellings. The leaves of this herb contain a glucoside called melimotoside which strengthens the blood vessels and improves circulation. Therefore, you should crush the leaves of this herb and boil them in hot water. Add sweeteners to this mixture. Consume this herbal tea regularly for relieving the problems caused by chilblains.
Eucalyptus
The herb Eucalyptus is also used to make a remedy for chilblains. Eucalyptus oil is very effective for curing chilblains. The essential oil of this herb is an ideal herbal remedy for the pain and itchiness experienced by persons who have chilblains. The oil heals and soothes the skin. It also eases the irritation felt in the skin and lowers the likelihood of developing skin blisters due to chilblains. This herbal remedy also warms the skin. Massage the parts of your body which are effected with chilblains using Eucalyptus oil. Heat the oil slightly before applying it for best results.
Cayenne Pepper
Chilblains which are caused due to insufficient circulation can be treated effectively by applying a poultice of Cayenne Pepper on the affected areas. Chilblains are caused due to inadequate circulation in parts of the body overexposed to cold. Cayenne Pepper is a stimulant herb called so because it stimulates the heart and circulatory system. It improves circulation and generates body heat. You can soak Cayenne Pepper in hot water till it becomes moist. Place the herb in a dry cloth bag or poultice and apply this to the body where the chilblains have resulted from exposure to excessive cold. Regular applications of the poultice will ease the pain and increase the circulation and heat in the body, relieving you from the chilblains.