Natural Remedies for Iron or Vitamin Deficiency Anemia

Anemia is a condition in which not enough red blood cells are being produced in the body resulting in poor distribution of oxygen to the organs. Typically, a person who has anemia experiences fatigue, concentration problems, cold hands and feet, headaches and possibly fast or irregular heartbeat. While there are over 400 types of anemia conditions rating from mild to severe, the most common types are iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia. These forms of anemia are generally treated through diet as well as taking iron and vitamin supplements. Adding herbal supplements that are high in iron and vitamins can also be a way of enriching the diet in order to build up the blood.

What are Iron Deficiency and Vitamin Deficiency Anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body does not store enough iron or cannot absorb enough iron to help build red blood cells. In some cases, bleeding may be causing the body to not maintain enough iron. Once iron deficiency anemia has been diagnosed, the doctor may wish to do more tests to see if there are any underlying health issues that may be causing the iron deficiency. Often the doctor will have the patient increase iron in their diet by eating iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements. Taking additional vitamin C will also be necessary in order to help the body absorb the iron. Some herbal remedies are high in both iron and vitamins and may be a good alternative or addition to taking iron supplements.

Vitamin deficiency anemia is caused by not enough vitamin B-12 and folate (B-9) in the body. Vitamin B-12 and folate are necessary in the production of red blood cells. The doctor may suggest eating more foods containing these nutrients or have the patient take supplements. Adding herbal remedies rich in vitamin B-12 and folate can be a good addition to the diet.

Herbal Remedies to Treat Anemia

Dandelion Leaf & Flower - The leaves and flower of the dandelion plant are an excellent source of iron as well as B-complex and vitamin C. This herb could be used to increase both iron and vitamins in the diet for both types of anemia. Dandelion leaf and flower can both be made into a tea by steeping the dried leaves or flowers in water for 10 to 15 minutes and straining. The taste can be bitter so you may want to add honey or spices. Dandelion leaf is also available in capsule and tincture form. Dandelion is safe to use for most people, however people taking diuretics for high blood pressure, have chronic diarrhea or have intestinal blockages should not take dandelion.

Gentian Root - Gentian root helps to stimulate the digestive system and produce the enzymes necessary for proper digestion of foods. Vitamins and iron cannot be absorbed properly if acid in the stomach is low. Gentian root helps to stimulate the digestive system so vitamins such as B-12 and B-9 (folate) as well as iron can be absorbed into the system. Gentian root is very bitter so most people prefer to take it in supplement form. It should be taken a few minutes before eating to stimulate the digestive system; however it can still be effective if taken within minutes after eating. People with ulcers or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take this herbal supplement.

Spirulina - Spirulina is rich in vitamin B-12 which is necessary for the creation of red blood cells. It also contains the phytonutriant phycocyanin which studies have shown stimulates the production of stem cells by the bone marrow. Stem cells mature into red and white blood cells. Spirulina is a healthy way to add vitamin B-12 to the diet as well as protein and many essential amino acids. Spriulina comes in capsule, tablet, flake and powder forms. It is safe for most people except those who have an allergic reaction to it.

Yellow Dock Root - Yellow dock root (Rumex crispus) is a wild plant that grows naturally in Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in North America. The root of the plant has been used for centuries as a blood purifier and to cleanse toxins from the body but it is also an effective herb for the treatment of anemia. Yellow dock root contains high quantities of iron and vitamin C as well as vitamin A, calcium, tannins, phosphorus and oxalates. This herb helps to enhance bile production and improve the flow of digestive acids so iron can be absorbed more effectively. Yellow dock root is a natural diuretic, so people who take medication for high blood pressure or any type of heart condition should not take it. People with kidney disease or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also not take yellow dock root. Yellow dock root is available in capsule, extract and tea form.

Anemia is a serious condition and should be diagnosed by a doctor before any treatment is administered. Taking iron supplements or herbal supplements that contain large quantities of iron can be dangerous if you do not need additional iron in your diet. If you are diagnosed with iron or vitamin deficiency anemia, talk to your doctor about your treatment and discuss any herbal remedies you may wish to take.

Sources:

Global Healing Center "Organic Yellow Dock Root"

Mayo Clinic "Anemia" Retrieved May 14, 2010.

The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler, ND

Prentice Hall Press 2001 & 2010