Vasoconstrictor
Vasoconstriction is the narrowing of the blood vessels resulting from contraction of the muscular wall of the vessels, in particular the large arteries and small arterioles. The process is the opposite of vasodilation, the widening of blood vessels. The process is particularly important in staunching hemorrhage and acute blood loss. When blood vessels constrict, the flow of blood is restricted or decreased, thus retaining body heat or increasing vascular resistance. This makes the skin turn paler because less blood reaches the surface, reducing the radiation of heat. On a larger level, vasoconstriction is one mechanism by which the body regulates and maintains mean arterial pressure. Medications causing vasoconstriction, also known as vasoconstrictors, are one type of medicine used to raise blood pressure. Generalized vasoconstriction usually results in an increase in systemic blood pressure, but it may also occur in specific tissues, causing a localized reduction in blood flow. The extent of vasoconstriction may be slight or severe depending on the substance or circumstance. Many vasoconstrictors also cause pupil dilation. Medications that cause vasoconstriction include: antihistamines, decongestants, and stimulants used to treat ADHD.
Special Precautions of Vasoconstrictor
- Generalized vasoconstriction leads to increased blood pressure--the blood volume stays the same while the 'container' (blood vessels) tightens-up and becomes smaller, causing pressure to rise. Blood pressures can be monitored using an automatic cuff. It's a good idea for everyone to check their blood pressure at rest to determine your own 'normal' blood pressure. If resting pressures are high, you need to see your doctor for treatment, and also AVOID CNS stimulants (speed, amps, meth, cocaine, etc).
- Symptoms of Dangerous Generalized Vasoconstriciton : high blood pressure, headache, double-vision, sudden onset of slurred speech, sudden onset of clumsiness/imbalance, immediate difficulty performing routine tasks/muscular paralysis/loss of muscle control. All these are associated with stroke--the number 1 danger from extreme vasoconstriction and high blood pressure. Go to Emergency Room Immediately.
Health Benefits and uses of Vasoconstrictor are
Herbs causing constriction of capillaries are often used to prevent and treat migraine headaches.
Herbs with Vasoconstrictor properties
Herbs Causing Constriction Of Capillaries :
- Bugleweed : Lycopus spp.
- Camphor : Camphor, Cinnamomum camphora
- Chamomile : Chamomile, Matricaria recutita
- Cypress Oil : Cypress Oil, Cupressus sempervirens
- Peppermint : Peppermint, Mentha piperita
- Ephedra sinica (Ma Huang)
- Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana)
- Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
- Yerba Buena
- Heather
- Ergot
- Butcher's Broom
