Can Natural Remedies Help With Raynaud's Syndrome?

Natural remedies for Raynaud's syndrome may include biofeedback, niacin supplements, and ginkgo biloba. So far, scientific evidence to support the use of these or other natural remedies for this condition is limited.

Raynaud's syndrome can't be cured. Treatment and prevention strategies largely center on reducing the characteristic narrowing of small blood vessels that causes fingers, toes, ears, and the nose to turn pale, then blue, and cold.

Biofeedback

In biofeedback training, people learn how to consciously influence the body's vital functions (including breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure) with the help of relaxation techniques and information feedback delivered by specialized electronic devices.

Some practitioners encourage biofeedback as a method to help control body temperature and lessen the severity and frequency of Raynaud's attacks. However, clinical research studies have not concluded that biofeedback is effective.

Acupuncture

There is limited research on the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating Raynaud's syndrome. A 2023 review of six studies suggests it may improve symptom remission or the number of attacks per day, but the authors caution that more study is needed.

Acupuncture has been shown to improve blood flow, so in theory, it may help Raynaud's attacks. Other studies on Raynaud's and acupuncture included findings that it:

• Reduced attacks by 63% in the acupuncture group compared to 27% in the control group
• Reduced frequency and severity of attacks, but had no influence on skin perfusion and skin temperature
• Increased the diameter and blood flow velocity in peripheral arterioles

Fish Oil Supplements

It's possible that taking fish oil supplements could increase blood flow, thereby improving symptoms of Raynaud's. Some research suggests that fish oil could help with primary Raynaud's but there's no evidence of its benefit when Raynaud's symptoms are linked to another condition like lupus.

Note that side effects such as increased risk of bleeding and reduced immune function are possible, so talk with a healthcare provider before taking high doses of fish oil supplements.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil offers a different type of fatty acid that may deliver benefits to people living with Raynaud's symptoms. Studies found fewer and less intense episodes in people who used the oil, but it also presents a risk to people with a seizure disorder and those who take blood thinners.

Niacin Supplements

Vitamin B3 (also known as niacin) was thought to benefit people with Raynaud's since the nutrient causes blood vessels to dilate and stimulates circulation to the skin.

Some benefit has been seen with an inhaled form called inositol hexaniacinate, but this use can be risky. Discuss B3 use with your healthcare provider to manage side effects that also include:

• Low blood pressure
• Extreme tiredness
• High blood sugar
• Nausea, heartburn, and abdominal pain
• Blurred vision

Ginkgo Biloba

Another natural remedy thought to be useful in preventing Raynaud's attacks, ginkgo biloba has not been extensively studied for its effects on the disease. A small study suggests people using ginkgo experience less pain with Raynaud's, but more research is needed.

Preventing Flare-Ups

A Raynaud's attack can last a few minutes to more than an hour. Your healthcare provider may recommend these lifestyle changes to prevent flares from occurring:

• Avoid caffeine.
• Wear protective clothing and accessories (such as mittens or gloves) when exposed to cold, including the refrigerator and grocery freezer sections.
• Keep your home environment warm.
• Quit smoking.
• Exercise regularly.
• Manage stress.

Talk with your healthcare provider about the medications you take. Some medications, including heart-related drugs, can worsen Raynaud's symptoms.

Summary

It's too soon to recommend any remedies to treat Raynaud's phenomenon. If you're considering trying a natural approach, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first to weigh the potential risks and benefits and to discuss whether it is appropriate (and safe) for you.

You also can consider adjusting lifestyle factors, including work-related issues like repetitive behaviors or consistently using equipment that vibrates.