Want to get your blood pumping? Then you need an essential oil that supports healthy circulation. Why? Poor circulation can cause unwanted side effects and discomfort. Finding a solution is therefore necessary. 

That’s why in today’s blog, our experts are discussing what you need to know about mitigating circulatory problems and how aromatherapy can help. Read on to learn more. 

What Causes Poor Circulation?

The circulatory system sends essential oxygen and nutrients in blood throughout the body. Bad circulation can manifest as numbness, tingling, pain, muscle cramps and throbbing in the limbs.

A number of mild to serious conditions can cause poor blood circulation, including:[1] 

Atherosclerosis: A condition that causes arteries to stiffen due to plaque buildup. 

Blood clot: A blood clot can block blood flow partially or entirely.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Causes narrowing blood vessels and arteries.

Diabetes: Diabetes increases your risk for PAD. High glucose levels can also damage the lining of blood vessels, causing poor circulation.[2]

Raynaud’s disease: Causes blood vessels to narrow, restricting circulation.

Varicose veins: A varicose vein is one that is enlarged and misshapen, preventing efficient blood flow.

Which Essential Oils Improve Circulation and Blood Flow?

Luckily, there are essential oils that help to reduce the feeling of poor circulation. Here are our top picks for boosting blood flow:

1. Cypress: Along with its green, forest-like aroma, you’ll fall in love with Cypress for its ability to alleviate edema as well as swelling and pain caused by varicose veins. 
2. Peppermint: Minty and refreshing, Peppermint oil is known to improve circulation efficiently when topically applied with a carrier oil such as Fractionated Coconut oil. 
3. Circu-Touch Blend: A blend of Cypress, Peppermint, Lavender oil and other helpful essentials that combat symptoms of restricted blood flow, Circu-Touch is a must-have. 
4. Black Pepper: Earthy and potent, Black Pepper is a known rubefacient, meaning it warms the body. It also helps dilate blood vessels, boosting blood flow. 
5. Rosemary: Herbaceous and fresh, Rosemary essential oil is capable of improving circulation thanks to its 1,8-cineole and camphor content. 
6. Juniper Berry: Pine-like and slightly bitter, Juniper Berry stimulates circulation by dilating blood vessels when applied topically. 

How To Use Essential Oils For Circulation

Traditional treatments for improving circulation include wearing compression stockings, laser treatment for spider veins, medications and exercise programs. Here’s how you can use circulatory essential oils alongside these methods.

Massage Oil

The most efficient way to use essential oils for circulation is by using them in a massage or body oil. Here’s an oil that you can make yourself:

5 drops Cypress

4 drops Peppermint

4 drops Black Pepper

3 drops Rosemary

1 oz Fractionated Coconut

Combine ingredients and massage onto arms and legs. Alternatively, use 18 drops Circu-Touch and 1 oz carrier oil. 

Bath

Along with lowering your risk of heart problems and blood pressure, hot baths (or heat in general) can dilate blood vessels and improve circulation.[3] Add these circulatory essential oils and nourishing ingredients to your next bath:

2 drops Juniper Berry

2 drops Lemon

2 drops Ginger

1 oz Jojoba 

1 oz Epsom Salt

Combine ingredients and pour them into running water. Alternatively, add a few scoops of Circu-Touch bath salt. 

SOURCES:

1. Symptoms and Causes of Poor Circulation. https://www.healthline.com/health/poor-circulation-symptoms-causes
2. Low Blood Flow: The Cold Truth About Poor Circulation Leading to Diabetes. https://www.apcofamerica.com/low-blood-flow-poor-circulation-diabetes
3. Hot baths and saunas: Beneficial for your heart? https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/hot-baths-and-saunas-beneficial-for-your-heart