Chilblains

What you need to know

Chilblains occur mainly due to poor circulation to the extremities, so advice really involves generally improving blood flow as a preventative measure. There are also remedies and therapies, which can give symptomatic relief. 

Always see a doctor if the chilblain starts to ulcerate.

Nutritional supplements that could help:

As a general suggestion taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement regularly will ensure that there are no nutritional deficiencies which will ensure a healthy circulatory system. Other supplements include:

Herbs which may help:

There are various herbs that improve circulation:

Herbal teas can be made from the following:

• Angelica root

• cinnamon sticks

• ginger root

• Prickly ash bark

Topical preparations can give symptomatic relief:

• Cayenne - cream or ointment – reduces pain and discomfort

• Aloe vera - cream or gel – soothing

• Calendula - (Marigold) cream - soothing

Homoeopathy

Homeopathic remedies appropriate to this condition include:

• Agaricus

• Pulsatilla

• Petroleum

• Plantago

Topical homeopathic preparations are also available:

• Arnica - cream (but not if the skin is broken) – to relief itching

• Tamus ointment - soothing

Aromatherapy

The following essential oils added to a carrier oil and massaged into the Chilblains are very useful, but only on unbroken skin:

• Black pepper

• Geranium

• Lavender

Other oils such as ginger, Lemon Grass, Marjoram and rosemary could also help.

Dietary changes that may be beneficial :

General advice really involves the maintenance of the circulatory system:

• Caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor, closing up the smallest blood vessels, which reduces blood flow and impairs circulation. Nicotene has the same effect, so smoking does not help.

• Very small amounts of alcohol do improve the circulation, but anything more than one drink in the evening does exactly the opposite.

• Try to reduce intake of animal fats, fried foods and full fat Dairy foods as these slow down circulation.

• Eat plenty of avocados, sunflower, safflower or olive oils, nuts, seeds, and dark green leafy vegetables for their Vitamin E.

• Eat plenty of oily Fish such as sardines, herring, mackerel, salmon and pilchards.

• Dark coloured berries for their vitamin C and Bioflavanoids.

• Use buckwheat flour in your cooking to make bread, pancakes, pastry etc, as it contains high levels of Rutin.

• Use plenty of garlic, chilli, ginger and horseradish in cooking.

• Drink at least 2 litres of water per day to keep the system hydrated.

Traditional remedies:

• Cut a thick slice of lemon, dip it in coarse sea salt, and rub over the surface of the chilblain (but only if the skin is not broken or cracked)
• Reflexology and Yoga may also be useful for Chilblains.

• It is important to keep hands and feet warm with thin cotton gloves and socks, covered by thicker woollen gloves or boots. 

• Contrast bathing of the affected areas with alternate hot and cold water for 5 minutes, at least once a day, stimulates blood flow.

• Exercise is important to help maintain circulation, try to do some at least 3 times a week, it does not have to strenuous, simply taking a brisk walk on a regular basis will be helpful.

• To improve circulation it may be useful to raise the bottom end of the bed.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.