What are the effects of earthworms on human blood vessels

The effects of earthworms on human blood vessels mainly include improving microcirculation, preventing thrombosis, regulating blood pressure, protecting endothelial function, and promoting angiogenesis. These effects are mainly achieved through its active ingredients such as earthworm kinase and earthworm protein.

1. Improving microcirculation:

Lumbricus kinase in Lumbricus can decompose fibrinogen, reduce blood viscosity, and increase capillary blood flow velocity. Clinical observation showed that earthworm extract could significantly improve the nailfold microcirculation of patients with diabetes and reduce erythrocyte aggregation. This effect has a positive significance in alleviating peripheral circulation disorders such as limb chills and intermittent claudication.

2. Antithrombotic:

Earthworm protein can inhibit platelet aggregation and block the synthesis pathway of thromboxane A2. Experimental studies have shown that its anticoagulant effect is equivalent to 1/10 of heparin, but the risk of bleeding is significantly reduced. For atherosclerosis patients, Dilong preparation can reduce the formation of intravascular microthrombosis and prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.

3. Regulating blood pressure:

The peptides contained in earthworm have ACE inhibitory effects, which can reduce the production of angiotensin II. Long term use can reduce the average systolic blood pressure of patients with primary hypertension by 10-15 mmHg, especially for patients with hypercoagulable blood. Its antihypertensive effect is mild and does not cause orthostatic hypotension.

4. Protecting vascular endothelium:

Earthworm extract can enhance the activity of nitric oxide synthase in vascular endothelial cells and strengthen vasodilation function. Animal experiments have confirmed that it can alleviate endothelial damage caused by high-fat diet and reduce the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. This protective effect is crucial for preventing the progression of arteriosclerosis.

5. Promoting angiogenesis:

The amino acid polysaccharide components in Lumbricus can stimulate the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor, accelerating the establishment of collateral circulation in ischemic tissues. In the myocardial infarction model, it was found that the myocardial capillary density in the group treated with earthworm preparations increased by 40% compared to the control group. This pro angiogenic effect helps improve tissue ischemia.

Daily benefits can be obtained by taking earthworm powder or using related preparations according to medical advice. It is recommended to combine low salt diet and regular aerobic exercise. Patients with hypertension should regularly monitor their coagulation function during medication, and should discontinue it two weeks before surgery. Patients with vascular diseases should consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner before use to avoid the risk of bleeding caused by the combination of anticoagulant drugs. Persisting for more than three months can show significant improvement in vascular function, but pregnant women and those with allergies should use it with caution.