Red blood cells (RBCs) perform the function of carrying oxygen to the various cells in the body. Oxygen is used by the cells to carry out their various metabolic activities. The oxygen is carried by hemoglobin present in the RBCs. When the number of RBCs in the body is reduced, it is called anemia, and enough oxygen does not reach the cells. So the cells cannot function effectively, and the person feels tired. Other symptoms are pale skin, shortness of breath, irritability, dizziness, feeling cold, odd cravings for food, and loss of appetite.
The causes of anemia are varied: deficiency of iron or certain vitamins, chronic disease, blood loss, defective hemoglobin, and increased destruction of RBCs. Treatment depends on the cause. However, some of these herbal remedies can be tried to see if the symptoms improve.
5 Effective Herbal Remedies For Anemia
Always consult your physician before trying these herbal remedies. This is not only because the herbal remedies can interact with other medications you may be taking, but also because they work only in anemia due to certain causes.
Alfalfa
The sprouts, leaves, and seeds of Medicago sativa are used to restore the hemoglobin levels to normal. They are a rich source of vitamins, iron, and other minerals.Dose is 1 tablespoon per 1 cup of water. Roots should be simmered for around 20 minutes, and leaves should be simmered for around 5 minutes. Alfalfa seeds can cause an autoimmune disease if taken for a long time. Alfalfa can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Dandelion
Dandelion has been in use for a long time in herbal medicine. Traditionally, it has been used for hepatitis, pneumonia, and bronchitis. The leaf or root of Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) is used to cleanse and fortify the blood.Dose is 1 tablespoon per 1 cup of water. Roots should be simmered for around 20 minutes, and leaves should be simmered for around 5 minutes. It is by and large safe to use dandelion, though sometimes heartburn, stomach upset, and diarrhea can occur.
Burdock
The seed, root and leaf of Arctium lappa are used medicinally. They can restore the hemoglobin level to normal in mild cases of anemia.Dose is 1 tablespoon per 1 cup of water. Roots should be simmered for around 20 minutes, and leaves should be simmered for around 5 minutes. Burdock can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Yellowdock
The root of Rumex crispus is used for making the yellowdock extract. It restores the hemoglobin level to normal if the anemia is mild. Dose is 1 tablespoon per 1 cup of water. Root should be simmered for about 20 minutes.Yellowdock can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin irritation, and increased urination.The above four herbs can also be used in combination. They may interact with many medications, such as warfarin, digoxin, and lithium.
Gentian
The rhizome (underground stem) of Gentiana lutea is used medicinally. It helps in anemia because it facilitates the absorption of iron and some other nutrients.Add one teaspoon of powdered dried rhizome to about three cups of water. Take one tablespoon of it half an hour before meals. It can lower your blood pressure, so use caution.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
