Acupuncture. Acupuncture could be an interesting avenue for people who suffer from primary form Raynaud’s disease, according to a study of 33 patients⁹. The 17 subjects treated with acupuncture received 7 sessions over 2 weeks in winter. The frequency of their seizures was reduced by 63% compared to the control group. A more recent trial in patients with syndrome de Raynaud was not, however, conclusive¹⁰.

 Biofeedback. Biofeedback employs electronic appliances with the aim of giving the patient back control of his own body, including certain so-called involuntary functions. This technique would be effective to treat Raynaud’s disease (primary form), according to the authors of a review who looked at 10 studies. However, all of these trials, except one, are small (from 12 to 39 subjects)¹.

 Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgo biloba). The standardized extract of ginkgo biloba leaves is recognized by the World Health Organization for the treatment of peripheral circulatory disorders, such as intermittent claudication and Raynaud’s disease. Ginkgo improves blood circulation in small blood vessels due to its vasodilator effect. Preliminary data indicates that ginkgo biloba extract may reduce symptoms of this disease^2,3.

Dosage

From 120 mg to 160 mg of extract (50: 1) per day, to be taken in 2 or 3 doses.

 Hypnothérapie. According to American doctor Andrew Weil, Raynaud’s disease responds well to body-mind approaches, such as self-hypnosis and biofeedback⁷. These techniques help to teach the body to counteract nervous reactions which lead to constriction of small blood vessels. He specifies that the simple fact of practicing breathe deeply, then doing it at the time of the onset of symptoms generates the same relaxation reaction. Consult our Hypnotherapy sheet.