10 Herbal Remedies for Varicose Veins
Varicose veins and spider veins are caused by a sedentary lifestyle, pregnancy, weight gain, hormonal changes and prolonged standing. Want to know how to remedy them by herbal means? Read on.
Varicose and spider veins occur when the little valves in your veins become weak. The blood pools in your veins as a result, causing red or blue spider veins; or bulging, meandering veins that protrude in quite a displeasing manner.
Ginger
Ginger can help improve the circulation, and minimize the appearance of your veins. Studies show that it lowers blood pressure, lowering the pressure on your veins, too!
The blood-thinning qualities of ginger make your heart pump more easily. Ginger also breaks up fibrin, a protein that can build up in areas where your veins are damaged.
To make the most of ginger’s vein-supporting benefits, eat a small amount every day, or put an inch of the root into your smoothies, teas or juices.
Garlic
Garlic reduces inflammation and lessens the symptoms of varicose veins. It can help break up the toxins in the blood vessels and improve your circulation.
To use garlic for varicose veins, put it in juices (it’s nice with cucumber, lemon and ginger, for example), curries and other dishes. Alternatively, or additionally, apply it topically.
Instructions:
- In the morning, cut five or six cloves of garlic into slices and put them into a clean jar.
- Extract the juice from three oranges and add that to the jar too.
- Add two tablespoons of olive oil, and mix well.
- Put it on a shelf in a cool place for around 12 hours.
- Shake up the mixture and put a few drops of the potion onto your fingers.
- Massage your veins with your damp fingers gently, moving in circles, for a quarter of an hour before bed.
- Wrap your legs in a cotton cloth and leave the mixture on overnight.
- Repeat this treatment every day for 3 months.
Onion
The quercetin found in onions maintains the strength of your capillaries and the elasticity of your veins.
Garlic, leeks and chives all contain compounds that are helpful for varicose veins, and they can all be used to make an anti-varicose vein salad dressing. Just add olive oil, lemon and the quantity of garlic, leek or chive to taste.
Brahmi
Brahmi is a herb used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has become more well-known in recent years due to its beneficial effect on varicose veins and other ailments.
The recommended dosage of brahmi is around 10-20 millilitres twice per day. They say it is best used for one month, continuously.
Brahmi contains a lot of zinc, helps heal blood clots by creating collagen, assists in the absorption of vitamin E and supports your body in the battle against varicose and spider veins.
Rosemary
Rosemary contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in your veins and enhance their health. Rosemary extract purifies the blood and increases circulation.
St. John’s wort
St. John’s wort is another lovely herb used to treat spider and varicose veins. You can use it internally and externally. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.
Butcher’s broom
Butcher’s broom is great for relieving the discomfort associated with spider and varicose veins. It contains ruscogenins, which reduce inflammation and constrict the veins so they don’t hold as much blood. This reduces their bulgy appearance.
Take 100 mg of butcher’s broom three times per day. Butcher’s broom supplements often contain B vitamins, vitamin C and key minerals to help tighten and strengthen your veins.
Note: If you have hypertension or benign prostate hyperplasia, don’t take butcher’s broom without talking to your doctor first.
Guggul
Guggul helps maintain healthy blood circulation and excellent vein health. This Ayurvedic herb is recommended for people with spider and varicose veins. Consult a herb expert for dosages.
Echinacea
Echinacea isn’t just good for colds and flu: it works nicely on reducing the inflammation associated with varicose veins, relieving symptoms and boosting the immune system to help heal your veins.
It is available in tincture form, which can be added to water and taken orally, in tablets and teabags. Health food shops usually stock it.
Remember, always consult a qualified practitioner before beginning any herbal treatment. Talking to your doctor beforehand is also advisable.
