Best herbs and other natural remedies for treating varicose veins (Varicosities)

SYMPTOMS

Visibly distended veins, especially in the calves and inner thighs of the legs. They are enlarged, bulging, bluish, and lumpy. Small ones can appear red and spidery. 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, especially at night. Hemorrhage under the skin may cause the skin to discolor (light brown to bluish). Veins may be abnormally large, bulging and lumpy looking.

CAUSES

The valves of the veins no longer function properly. They have become stretched from excess pressure. The valves in the veins that prevent blood from flowing backward do not work properly. The deep veins are surrounded by muscles which keep them in shape. It is those close to the surface (saphenous veins) which develop these problems. So much blood collects that it leaks out into surrounding tissue.

   Contraceptive medications can induce varicose veins, as well as hormonal vasodilation just prior to menstruation. They can occur during pregnancy (especially during the first 3 months). About 15% of Americans experience the problem; most of these are women. Overweight individuals are at the greatest risk. Heavy lifting is another causal factor.

   When varicose veins occur in and around the anus, they are called hemorrhoids. Straining at the stool, because of a lack of dietary fiber, causes constipation and can result in varicose veins, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, phlebitis, and hiatus hernia.

   Spider veins are unsightly, but cause no problems.

NATURAL REMEDIES

HERBS

• An herbal wash that relieves varicose veins: Mix equal parts sweet flag root, thyme leaves, nettle leaves, horse chestnut leaves and fruit. Add 3 Tbsp. to 1 quart cold water, bring to a boil. Add ½  tsp. salt and bathe the legs with the tea.
• Horse chest nut seeds have been used to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids for years in Germany. The active ingredient, aescin, strengthens capillaries and reduces fluid leakage. Use the standardized extract.
• Witch hazel is an outstanding herbal wash. It is a soothing astringent which strengthens blood vessels. White oak bark is another useful astringent herb.
• Apply 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 risk of clot formation.
• Here are more useful substances: Lemon peel contains flavonoids, including rutin, which reduce blood vessel permeability. Bilberry stimulates new capillary formation. Ginkgo improves circulation.
• Both violet and pansy flowers contain rutin and are safe to eat. Add them to your salads.
• Drinking dandelion or corn silk tea helps the kidneys eliminate excess fluid, thus reducing tissue swelling.
• Apply hot applications of tansy tea on large veins. Replace when they become cool. Cover with wool or plastic to keep them wet and hot.

DIET

• Drink at least 48 oz. of water daily.
• Take vitamin C (500-1,000 mg 3 times daily), Vitamin E (200-400 IU daily), flaxseed oil (1 Tbsp daily)
• Include enough fiber in your diet, which should be low in fat and refined starches. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid animal products. Eat whole grains, nuts, and legumes
• If you are overweight, you need to reduce.

OTHER HELPS

• Avoid wearing garments which constrict blood flow. But moderate pressure on the veins (elastic stockings) is helpful.
• Never cross your legs. It adds pressure to the veins.
• Elevate your feet while reading or watching TV. At least once a day, elevate your legs above your heart for 20 minutes.
• Walking is the best exercise for your legs.
• On lengthy trips, walk around every so often.
• Do not stand in one place too long. If you have to do so, rise up on your toes occasionally, wiggle your toes, and move little from time to time.
• Sleep with your feet raised slightly above the level of the heart. But do not do this if you have heart problems.
• If you are confined to a bed, move your extremities frequently to improve general circulation.
• In the morning, go out and walk barefoot on the cool, wet grass. Quickly dry and put on socks and shoes.
• Do not scratch the itchy skin above varicose veins.Doing so can lead to bleeding and surface ulcers.