When we talk about staying healthy as we age, we usually think about food, exercise, or sleep. But there’s something most people forget: the health of your blood vessels. Every part of your body depends on good circulation.
Cardiovascular health should be on the minds of all women in menopause. As estrogen falls, the risk of heart diseases increases greatly. So much so that it’s the number one killer of women in menopause.
Enter Arterosil. This supplement, is getting attention for helping to protect blood vessels at a very deep level. In this post, I’ll explain what it is, how it works, what studies show, and what you should know before trying it.
What is Arterosil?
Arterosil is a supplement made from a special type of green seaweed found in Okinawa, Japan. Okinawa is famous because it’s a Blue Zone. These are areas of the world where many people there live to be over 100 years old. Scientists believe seaweed may play a role in that.
The main ingredient in Arterosil is called rhamnan sulfate. This compound helps protect the glycocalyx, which is a thin, gel-like coating that lines the inside of your blood vessels. Think of the glycocalyx like Teflon on a frying pan. It keeps things from sticking and makes your blood vessels smooth and flexible.
What Does Arterosil Do?
The glycocalyx is very important for blood vessel health. When it is damaged, problems like high blood pressure, clogged arteries, or poor circulation can begin.
Arterosil works by supporting and repairing this protective layer. Some of the benefits may include:
- Keeps arteries clean: Helps stop cholesterol and plaque from building up.
- Supports healthy blood pressure: Helps blood vessels stay stretchy and flexible.
- Improves blood flow: Makes it easier for oxygen and nutrients to reach your organs and brain.
- Fights inflammation: Acts like a shield, protecting the vessel walls from damage.
- Supports heart, brain, and sexual health: Good blood flow helps everything in the body work better.
What Do Studies Show?
Most of the research on rhamnan sulfate has been in labs and animal studies, but a few small human studies have been done too.
- Arterial Elasticity Study: In 19 healthy adults, one dose of Arterosil improved blood vessel flexibility by almost 90% within three hours.
- Blood Pressure Pilot Study: In 10 adults with high blood pressure, taking Arterosil twice a day lowered diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) but didn’t change systolic pressure (the top number).
These studies are very small and not as strong as large clinical trials. But they suggest Arterosil may quickly improve how blood vessels work.
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Side Effects of Arterosil
Most people do well with this supplement, but here are a few things to know:
- Some may feel mild stomach upset if taken on an empty stomach.
- Since it’s made from seaweed, anyone allergic to seaweed or iodine should be careful.
- It may thin the blood slightly, so if you take blood thinners, check with your doctor first.
Who Might Benefit from Arterosil?
Arterosil may be most helpful for:
- Women in midlife who want to keep their blood vessels healthy as hormones shift.
- People with a family history of heart problems.
- Those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or other risk factors.
- Anyone focused on healthy aging and longevity.
How I Use Arterosil in Practice
When I work with women, I look at the whole picture—hormones, gut health, stress, sleep, and circulation. Arterosil can be an “extra tool” when we want to protect blood vessels and support long-term health.
It is not a replacement for basics like good food, exercise, and rest. But as part of a complete plan, it can add another layer of protection.
Bottom Line
Your blood vessels are like highways that carry life to every part of your body. If you want not just more years, but better years, taking care of them is key. Arterosil is one option that may help strengthen your body’s natural defenses.
References
Banerjee, S., Burke, K. L., & Tarbell, J. M. (2021). Regeneration and assessment of the endothelial glycocalyx to address cardiovascular disease. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 60(40), 14304–14318. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.1c03074
Burke, K. L., Patil, N. P., & Tarbell, J. M. (2023). The effect of a dietary supplement containing rhamnan sulfate on atherosclerotic plaque. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 10, 1113075. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2023.1113075
Calroy Health Sciences, LLC. (2017). Increase in arterial elasticity [Summary report of open-label clinical trial]. Advanced Health Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.advancedhealthclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Arterosil-elasticity-study-Summary-Report-SA10220-Rev-2017-03-03.pdf
Cancel, L. M., & Tarbell, J. M. (2013). Rhamnan sulfate enhances the endothelial glycocalyx and decreases the LDL permeability of human coronary artery endothelial cells in vitro. FASEB Journal, 27(1_supplement), 859.9–859.9. https://doi.org/10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.859.9
Holistic Heart Centers. (2025, February 20). Glycocalyx… Hype or hope? Retrieved from https://holisticheartcenters.com/2025/02/20/glycocalyx-hype-or-hope/
Patil, N. P., Burke, K. L., & Tarbell, J. M. (2022). Rhamnan sulfate reduces atherosclerotic plaque formation in ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet. Atherosclerosis, 357, 33–42. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2022.09.002
Dr. Anna Garrett is a menopause expert and Doctor of Pharmacy. She helps women who are struggling with symptoms of perimenopause and menopause find natural hormone balancing solutions so they can rock their mojo through midlife and beyond. Dr. Anna is the author of Perimenopause: The Savvy Sister’s Guide to Hormone Harmony. Order your copy at www.perimenopausebook.com.
Dr. Anna is available for 1-1 consultations. Find out more at www.drannagarrett.com/lets-
