Table of Contents
Welcome to natural remedies for varicose veins. Millions of people would like the answer to the essential question of (how to get rid of varicose veins naturally?) First, before we begin with the natural varicose vein treatments, let us learn about the symptoms and causes of this condition.
Varicose veins are distended veins, mainly in the calves and inner thighs of the legs. They are enlarged, lumpy, bulging, and bluish. Small ones can appear spidery and red. There may be aching or tiredness, a feeling of fullness in the limbs. The skin may have a tense or burning sensation.
Muscle cramps may occur, primarily at night. Bleeding beneath the skin may cause it to discolor (bluish to light brown). Veins may be abnormally large, bulging, and lumpy-looking.
Causes of Varicose Veins
The valves of the veins no longer function optimally. They have become stretched from excess pressure. The valves in the vein prevent blood from flowing backward and do not work correctly. The deep veins are surrounded by muscles that keep them in shape. Those close to the surface (saphenous veins) develop these problems. So much blood collects that it leaks out into surrounding tissue.
Contraceptive medications can induce varicose veins and hormonal vasodilation just before menstruation. They can occur during pregnancy (especially during the first three months). About fifteen percent of Americans experience the condition; many are women. Overweight people are the most significant risk. Additionally, heavy lifting is another factor.
When varicose veins occur in and around the anus, they are known as hemorrhoids. Straining at the stool due to a lack of fiber in the diet causes constipation. It can manifest as varicose veins, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, hiatus hernia, and phlebitis. Spider veins are not very pleasant to look at, but does not cause any problems.
Natural Remedies for Varicose Veins
Herbs
- For years, horse chestnut seeds have been used in Germany to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids. The active ingredient, aescin, strengthens capillaries and reduces fluid leakage. Use the standardized extract.
- An herbal wash that relieves varicose veins: Mix equal parts sweet flag root, thyme leaves, nettle leaves, fruit, and horse chestnut leaves.
- Witch Hazel is an excellent herbal wash. It is a soothing astringent that strengthens blood vessels. White oak bark is another useful astringent herb.
- Applying aloe vera gel is soothing to the veins.
- Apply fresh wood sorrel leaves to the area with extended veins. Cover with large cabbage leaves, and fasten with an ace bandage.
- Taking bromelain reduces the risk of clot formation.
Here are some other helpful substances:
- Lemon peel contains flavonoids, including rutin, which reduce blood vessel permeability.
- Bilberry stimulates the new capillary formation
- Ginkgo improves circulation.
- Both pansy flowers and violets contain rutin and are safe to eat. Add them to your salads.
- Drinking corn milk or dandelion tea helps the kidneys eliminate excess fluid, thus reducing tissue swelling.
- According to Dr. Christopher, making and drinking sassafras tea and using it to wash the legs is beneficial.
- Apply hot applications of tansy tea on large veins. Replace them when they become cool. Cover with wool or plastic to keep them hot and wet.
Diet
- Drink at least forty-eight ounces of water daily.
- Take vitamin C (500 to 1000 mg three times a day), vitamin E (200 to 400 IU daily), and flaxseed oil (1 Tbsp. daily).
- Consume a high-fiber diet that is low in refined starches and fats. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Abstain from animal products as much as possible. Eat legumes, nuts, and whole grains.
- If you are overweight, losing some pounds is helpful.
Other Tips on How to Reduce Varicose Veins Naturally
- Avoid wearing clothing that constricts blood flow. However, moderate pressure on the veins (elastic stockings) is helpful.
- Avoid crossing your legs. It adds pressure to the veins.
- Elevate your feet while watching television or reading, and elevate your legs above your heart for twenty minutes daily.
- Walking is the best exercise for your legs.
- While on lengthy trips, walk around now and then.
- Avoid standing in one place for too long. If you have to do so, rise on your toes occasionally, wiggle your toes, and move a little from time to time.
- Sleep with your feet raised slightly above the level of the heart. But do not attempt this if you have heart problems.
- If confined to a bed, move your extremities frequently to improve general circulation.
- In the mornings, walk barefoot on the cool, wet grass. Quickly dry and put on socks and shoes.
- Avoid scratching the itchy skin above varicose veins. Doing so can lead to surface ulcers and bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve heard horse chestnut seed extract is a popular natural remedy for varicose veins. What’s the evidence behind it?
Horse chestnut seed extract has a long history as a traditional remedy for vein health. Research suggests it contains aescin, which may strengthen vein walls and reduce the inflammation accompanying varicose veins. Studies have shown it can significantly alleviate leg pain and swelling, two common symptoms of varicose veins.
Can dietary changes help with varicose veins? Are there specific foods to focus on?
Your diet can play a role in managing varicose veins. Foods rich in flavonoids, such as berries, citrus fruits, and leafy greens, can improve circulation and strengthen veins. A high-fiber diet can also prevent constipation, which can exacerbate varicose veins. It’s a simple, natural way to support your vein health.
Compression stockings are often recommended, but are natural alternatives offering similar benefits?
While compression stockings are a mainstay in varicose vein management, some find them uncomfortable. Graduated compression socks offer a similar effect with a sleeker look and feel. Compression wraps or bandages can also be effective natural remedies for varicose veins, providing gentle support and improving circulation.
Can essential oils be a natural remedy for varicose veins?
Certain essential oils, particularly cypress and lavender, may enhance circulation and reduce inflammation. When diluted in a carrier oil and massaged into the affected areas, they might relieve varicose vein symptoms. However, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness.
I’ve heard exercise can help with varicose veins. What types of exercise are most beneficial?
Regular exercise is one of the most effective natural remedies for varicose veins. It boosts blood flow, strengthens leg muscles, and helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the strain on your veins. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are particularly beneficial for those with varicose veins.
Besides horse chestnut, are other herbal remedies for varicose veins worth exploring?
There are a few other promising natural remedies for varicose veins in the herbal world. Gotu kola and butcher’s broom have shown potential in early studies. Gotu kola may strengthen connective tissue and improve circulation, while butcher’s broom might have anti-inflammatory effects on varicose veins.
Can topical creams or gels improve the appearance of varicose veins?
Some topical products contain ingredients like vitamin K and horse chestnut extract, which may help reduce the appearance of spiders or smaller varicose veins. However, their impact on more extensive, bulging varicose veins is likely minimal. These creams may complement other natural remedies for varicose veins but shouldn’t be relied upon as a sole solution.
What about apple cider vinegar? Is it an effective natural remedy for varicose veins?
Are there lifestyle changes I can make to prevent varicose veins from worsening?
Absolutely! Several lifestyle adjustments can make a real difference in managing varicose veins. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, elevating your legs when resting, and wearing comfortable shoes can all help alleviate pressure on your veins and potentially slow the progression of varicose veins.
I’m interested in natural remedies, but when should I seek professional advice for my varicose veins?
If you experience significant pain, swelling, skin changes, or ulcers near your varicose veins, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. While natural remedies can be beneficial, they may not be sufficient for more severe cases.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
References
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 535, 536. [natural remedies for varicose veins]
- Pittler MH, Ernst E. Horse chestnut seed extract for chronic venous insufficiency. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Nov 14;(11):CD003230. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003230.pub4. PMID: 23152218.
- National Institutes of Health: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/horse-chestnut
- Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321703
- Cleveland Clinic: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/varicose-vein-remedies
- Verywell Health: https://www.verywellhealth.com/natural-treatments-for-varicose-veins-89260
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
Last update on 2024-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API