Heart Circulation

A miracle of motion, the heart is a hollow muscle, about the size of a clenched fist, that circulates blood around the body, supplying the tissues with oxygen and nutrients.

Circulatory, or cardiovascular, disorders tend to fall into two categories: problems with the heart's pumping power and rhythm; and disruption of blood flow through narrowed or blocked arteries.

Conventional doctors now agree with complementary therapists that diet and lifestyle changes are essential in treating heart problems. The difference in the two approaches now lies in the extent to which it is thought possible to avoid drugs and surgery.

Dietary measures and lifestyle changes, such as taking more exercise and giving up smoking, are the major planks of complementary medicine's approach to the treatment of heart disease.

A relaxing aromatherapy massage reduces stress and stimulates circulation. Therapies such as naturopathy and nutritional therapies aim to improve dietary habits and redress nutritional deficiencies. Complementary therapies aim to lower blood pressure by natural means, which in some cases may reduce or eliminate the need for conventional drugs.