Chronic fatigue has been associated with mold and mycotoxin exposure along with a myriad of other primary or secondary events. In past articles, we have discussed many reasons why mold, once inside the body, can sap cellular energy and result in extreme fatigue. Our articles have covered the gamut from addressing hormonal imbalances (thyroid, adrenal, pituitary), to discussing mold’s impact on the organ systems such as the liver and kidneys, to describing the implications of cell dysfunction whereby the mitochondria of the cells cannot produce the energy needed to drive other metabolic processes. An area we have not discussed directly, however, has to do with the circulatory system and blood movement throughout the body. And while the direct line of thinking when circulatory problems arise goes to blockages, as in heart disease and blocked arteries, there can be other circulatory problems related to several phenomena that occur when toxin levels and/or inflammatory levels are high.
What Causes Circulatory Problems?
From a wide-angle view, a sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, being overweight, a diet that lacks nutrients and is high in processed foods, lack of sunlight, disrupted sleep, and chronic inflammation are all main causes of circulatory problems. What is interesting, if you dig a little deeper is the fact that many of these, at their source, go back to a single or combination of toxic or infectious events–some viral or inflammatory trigger has resulted in a circulatory blockage or clotting issue. So, as you can see, inflammation and circulation are entwined, with inflammation negatively affecting circulation, and poor circulation leading to increased and ongoing inflammation. In recent years we have seen this illustrated in significant numbers of patients with circulatory issues whose scale may have been tipped by COVID, possibly due to the ongoing nature of the spike protein in the bloodstream. (The exact mechanism has NOT been positively defined but studies continue).
Symptoms of Circulatory Problems
There are several symptoms of circulatory problems, and the more of these you have, the more likely that there is some level of issue. Often circulatory complications reside in the small blood vessels, the capillaries, not the major arteries which present with more dramatic and substantial symptoms. Symptoms can include, but are not limited to the following:
Blood pressure problems with wide swings between highs and lows, or sudden onset of hyper or hypo tension;
Cognitive impairment, or brain fog;
Fatigue, not related to the degree of physical activity;
Change in sexual function;
Muscles that twitch, hurt, or feel weak with symptoms prominent when you walk;
“Pins and needles” sensations on the skin;
Pale or blue skin, particularly on fingers and toes;
Cold fingers or toes;
Numbness;
Bulging veins.
Of course, if any of these symptoms are happening, then trying to ascertain the root causes(s) is very important. There are times, however, when the root cause HAS been identified and there are still ongoing symptoms that are suspected of circulatory origin. If this is the case, it should be an indication to check the environment for potential exposure to mold and mycotoxins. If mold is found to be present, it will be difficult to gain any improvements if the source of toxins is not addressed and eliminated and exposure continues.
How Can Circulation be Improved?
There are a number of strategies and treatments which can help improve microcirculation and make a real difference in how you feel and function. These strategies may be used singly or in combination–of course, always with the approval and supervision of your physician! While many interventions listed below are herbs, remember that herbs are medicines too, and should be approached as such. If you are on blood thinners of any type or have surgery scheduled in the near future, do not use these without professional advice.
Herbs and Supplements for Circulatory Health
1. Arginine Combined With Vitamin C – There have been many studies on the microcirculatory impacts of COVID on the body for patients suffering from long-haul symptoms. Recently, a study was published that shows positive improvements in blood flow and energy levels from the daily combination therapy of Arginine and Vitamin C. Both supplements are also helpful for mold patients dealing with oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction that can result from prolonged exposure. CellTropin is a homeopathic formulation that contains Arginine, so is easier for many sensitive patients to take. Liposomal forms of Vitamin C also seem to be easiest for patients to use as they are more bioavailable for those with GI symptoms.
2. Dan Shen (Salvia root) – This is an herb thought to invigorate circulation, relieve anxiety, calm heart “fire”, inhibit blood coagulation, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and improve capillary blood flow. It may also maintain the integrity of the blood/brain barrier.
3. Gingko Biloba – This one may be more familiar to you as it has long been suggested as a help for neurocognitive support. It also supports improvements in vertigo, tinnitus, vascular dementia, traumatic brain injury, and neuropathy. Homeopathic doses of Gingko Biloba may be found in CellTropin.
4. Panax Notoginseng – This herb supports microcirculation by removing stagnant blood and dispersing it. It may also sedate pain by reducing inflammation.
5. Ginger – Ginger contains acids, amino acids, and minerals and has been used for centuries to help make the blood more fluid and to prevent blood from clotting in the arteries. Ginger is also used as a digestive aid and to increase bile flow which, in turn, helps to cleanse waste from the blood and body.
6. He Shou Wu – This root has an action similar to the body’s natural steroids, which are buffers to inflammation. It is thought to replenish the vital essence of liver and kidney function.
7. Tumeric –Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric that has been shown to be helpful in preventing blood from forming clots and reducing plaque in the arteries. Curcumin seems to temporarily increase blood flow in ways similar to exercise. Many times athletes use products containing curcumin as pre-workout prep to help get the blood flowing into muscles for increased performance and heightened results.
8. Boswellia – Also known as Frankincense, this herb helps in calming the mind, clearing cerebral circulation, and promoting healing. It is often used in combination with Myrrh, which has similar properties.
9. L-Citrulline – An amino acid that can recycle arginine to increase NO2 (nitric oxide) and thereby improve circulation to tissues. It is often used in exercise recovery in athletes and can help with the support and function of the pituitary gland for growth hormone support.
While these herbs and nutrients may be used singly or one at a time, there is a rationale to use a combination for optimal results. Many companies, like Quicksilver Scientific, have combined circulatory-focused formulations. I am not advocating using these interventions as substitutes for any of the measures of detox, diet, or clean air that must be done and continued, but if there is an element of circulatory compromise present, then the use of some of these herbs and supplements may help in your efforts to regain vitality. Additionally, restoring immunity, reducing inflammation, and maintaining protection against recurrent infections from viruses, certain bacteria, and the subsequent circulatory impacts are critical to overall health. Sinus Defense is a homeopathic product especially helpful for immune resilience. Although not for circulation support specifically, I find it enhances the work of any of the other interventions I use with mold patients.
(Note: These abovementioned herbs and nutritional supplements may be purchased at https://wellevate.me/susantanner#/ as single-ingredient or combination formulas, while CellTropin and non-toxic environmental products for mold may be found at Micro Balance Health Products.)
Susan Tanner has practiced medicine for over 33 years, concentrating primarily on chronic illness and the impacts on the individual, the family and the community. Her driving curiosity into why people are made ill caused her to pursue education in Environmental Medicine, completing coursework, exams, and necessary practice years to earn board certification in this area in 2009. Her own struggles with mold-related illness drove her desire to teach those similarly affected. While in clinical practice, Dr. Tanner wrote and contributed to a number of publications on environmental health, prepared narratives for understanding in legal matters, and researched new techniques for modulating the body’s ability to clear toxins and infections. She now has a fitness and health website www.thebodynexus.com, where she writes articles and shares education on utilizing the various body systems into improve overall health.
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