Buerger’s Disease, Dang Gui and Shu Di Huang

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Buerger’s Disease is characterized by loss of blood flow to the distal extremities, which can produce a range of potentially serious complications. Among them is gangrene, which necessitates amputation to resolve.

Buerger’s disease is a rare condition, but debilitating for those that experience it. There are ways to improve or resolve the disease, though, through behavioral changes and helpful botanicals.

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Buerger’s Disease?

Buerger’s Disease is first characterized by pain, numbness, or other sensations in the limbs – typically the feet and ankles first, but the hands and arms may also be first to show signs. These sensations are driven from a drop in blood flow to the extremities, and eventually this reduced blood flow will result in tissue death and gangrene.

The primary cause of Buerger’s Disease is tobacco use, either through smoking or chewing. A major part of treatment, then, is stopping tobacco use, though this itself may require medical support, including the use of medications and nicotine replacement devices.

Acupuncture can also assist with smoking cessation, as there are acupuncture points dedicated to preventing tobacco cravings.

How Can Botanicals Like Dang Gui and Shu Di Huang Help with Buerger’s Disease

For Buerger’s Disease, correcting poor circulation is critical. Some Chinese medicinal herbs – including Dang Gui and Shu Di Huang – are ideal for this. Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica root) is a warm herb that’s used in a number of heart and menstruation-related disorders, as it is excellent for tonifying the blood. Shu Di Huang (baked Rehmannia root) is a slightly warm herb that not only tonifies the blood, but also tonifies Yin energy (specifically liver and kidney Yin).

Together, these herbs build up the blood and invigorate it, improving various circulatory factors to enhance blood flow. For Buerger’s disease patients, that can support better outcomes through better circulation. Have a conversation with your Houston practitioner today to understand the ways they can be of assistance.