Protocol · Cardiovascular/Rheumatological
Raynaud's Phenomenon Support Protocol
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Ginkgo Biloba are the core of this stack, with 3 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Raynaud's Phenomenon Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
5 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 3–4 g EPA+DHA daily | Improves blood flow; reduces blood viscosity; anti-inflammatory
| Not graded yet | ||
| Ginkgo Biloba | Amount listed: 120–240 mg standardized extract daily | Improves peripheral circulation; may reduce attack frequency
| Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| L-Arginine | Amount listed: 3–6 g daily in divided doses | Nitric oxide precursor; supports vasodilation | Not graded yet | ||
| Evening Primrose Oil | Amount listed: 3–6 g daily (providing ~270–540 mg GLA) | GLA supports prostaglandin production; may improve circulation | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin E | Amount listed: 400–800 IU daily | Antioxidant; may improve blood flow | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
We earn from purchases made in our Fullscript store, and links to Fullscript, iHerb or Thorne carry our referral, so we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Grades come from the research and never change based on what we earn. Full disclosure
How this protocol works
In plain language
Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition where blood vessels in the fingers and toes temporarily narrow in response to cold or stress, causing them to turn white, then blue, then red as blood flow returns.
TYPES:
- Primary Raynaud's: No underlying disease; more common; usually mild
- Secondary Raynaud's: Associated with another condition (lupus, scleroderma, etc.); can be more severe
TYPICAL ATTACK:
1. Fingers/toes turn white (vasospasm - no blood flow)
2. May turn blue (deoxygenation)
3. Turn red and throb as blood returns
4. May feel numb, cold, or painful
TRIGGERS:
- Cold temperatures (main trigger)
- Emotional stress
- Certain medications (beta-blockers, migraine drugs)
- Vibrating tools
- Smoking
PREVENTION:
- Keep entire body warm (not just hands/feet)
- Wear layers, gloves, warm socks
- Avoid cold exposure
- Don't smoke
- Manage stress
- Avoid vasoconstrictive medications if possible
MEDICAL TREATMENTS:
- Calcium channel blockers: Nifedipine most common
- Topical nitrates: Applied to fingers
- PDE5 inhibitors: Sildenafil for severe cases
- Prostacyclin analogs: For severe secondary Raynaud's
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR:
- Severe or frequent attacks
- Skin ulcers or sores
- One-sided symptoms
- Associated joint pain or skin changes
- Onset after age 30
Omega-3s and ginkgo* may improve circulation.
L-arginine* supports blood vessel dilation.
Lifestyle measures* are essential.
Expected timeline: Supplements may reduce attack frequency within weeks to months. Lifestyle modifications often provide immediate benefit.