The circulatory system is a closed-circuit network. Oxygen-enriched blood is propelled by the heart through the arteries to the organs, then returned full of waste products through the veins to the purifying organs, the lungs and the heart. In all, around 5 liters of blood circulate in this network.
The heart, the engine of circulation
The heart is like a pump that enables circulation of blood throughout the body. Attached to the breastbone, the adult heart is as big as your closed fist. It weighs around 500 g.
To beat properly, the heart needs oxygen and nutrients. The coronary arteries provide the blood supply.
Vein or artery, what's the difference?
From the heart to the cells
The blood's "outward" journey takes place inside the arteries, which supply the cells with "new" blood filled with oxygen and nutrients. This is the "red" blood shown on anatomical diagrams.
From cell to heart
The veins carry the oxygen-poor blood, rich in carbon dioxide and metabolic waste, to the purifying organs such as the liver, then to the heart and lungs. This is the "blue" blood of anatomical drawings.
Once enriched with oxygen, the blood flows back to the heart, which propels it through all the body's arteries.
Focus on veins
Veins, the network that ensures the return journey, are more fragile than arteries, and are therefore composed of three envelopes:
- The adventitia is the outer envelope and contains nerve fibres responsible for vasoconstriction and vasodilatation.
- The medium is made up of elastic and muscular fibers that give it its flexibility and contractility.
- The intima, the inner layer covered with anti-reflux valves
Deep veins are responsible for venous return. There are also superficial veins and, finally, perforating veins that bridge the gap between the deep and superficial veins.
What is venous insufficiency?
Venous insufficiency is characterized by poor venous return. This concerns the so-called superficial veins.
Every 4 to 5 cm, there are non-return valves to prevent blood flowing in the opposite direction. Compression of the arch of the foot, combined with contraction of the calves and thighs, sends blood to the upper body and counteracts the effects of gravity.
Here's just one of the reasons why walking, and exercise in general, are important for limiting the inconvenience of poor circulation in the lower limbs.
Symptoms of a venous problem
The following physical signs are often indicative of poor venous return
- Vein swelling
- appearance of varicose veins
- Thrombophlebitis: clot in a superficial vein
- Thrombosis: clot in a deep vein
- Arteriovenous fistula: problem connecting veins and arteries
- Feeling of heavy legs
- Impatience in the legs
- Cramps, tingling
Link between poor venous return and digestive problems
One of the causes of poor venous return is constipation. Blood circulation, and especially venous circulation, is hampered by the compression of full viscera.
Some naturopathic advice for restore transit :
- Restructure your diet to include more fibre
- Drink more water
- Take some psyllium or chia which, thanks to their mucilage, act as gentle laxatives
- You can prepare infusions with digestive plants or hepato-stimulants such as artichoke
- Massage your belly in the direction of digestion
- Psycho-emotional work
- Going to the toilet at a fixed time
Natural support for blood circulation disorders
- Omega-3 essential fatty acids: they help to thin the blood and maintain blood vessel elasticity.
- Managing emotions: limit stress (physical and/or psychological), which accentuates the oxidative process.
- Seignalet or Mediterranean-style hypotoxic diet: adopt a natural, healthy, balanced diet rich in fresh, raw or lightly cooked fruit and vegetables.
- Physical activity: walk daily to stimulate venous return
- Stay hydrated to avoid constipation
- Circulatory plants: red vinehorse chestnut, Ginkgo Biloba, Hamamelis...
- Wear comfortable clothes that don't compress your stomach, hips and legs. Opt for compression stockings if you work on your feet and tend to stomp.