Those bulgy veins with a predominantly dark blue or purple hue are varicose veins. Although many people associate varicose veins with women, they can develop in both men and women. In fact, about 50-50% of women and 40-45% of men in the United States suffer from some vein-related issue. Varicose veins typically affect about 50% of all people over the age of 50. Due to that statistic, many people seek out natural ways to get rid of them.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are a common problem in both older and pregnant women because of hormonal influences. They also tend to develop them because veins lose their elasticity from higher levels of inflammation. Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that result from the natural pooling of blood from weakened vein valves. Veins carry blood back to the heart, but malfunctioned valves can cause blood to flow backward and accumulate. That results in the classic bulging appearance.
This common condition affects millions of people worldwide, and the bulging veins tend to appear in the legs. The pressure from standing and walking can not only contribute to varicose veins, but also cause discomfort and lead to swelling or aching. Some people see varicose veins as a cosmetic concern, but they can indicate an underlying circulatory issue. If you are interested in learning more about natural remedies to reduce the appearance of varicose veins, continue reading.
Use Herbs
According to research, horse chestnut and bilberry are two plants that have been effective at treating varicose veins. Both plants are thousands of years old and have documented uses in various folk remedies. Recent research confirms that they may help reduce ankle swelling, feelings of heaviness, itching, and nighttime leg cramping. The fruit of the bilberry plant can be made into tea or extracts, while the horse chestnut tree produces seeds that can be incorporated into extracts, creams, lotions, teas, or capsules.
Research suggests that taking doses of 160 milligrams (mg) of bilberry twice per day can help reduce the appearance of varicose veins. You can also combine this supplement with grape seed extract, butcher’s broom, and vitamin E to help encourage blood flow and protect veins. These herbs have natural blood-thinning effects that are considered safe. For horse chestnut, however, look for seed extracts that contain 16-20% escin, the active ingredients. You can also take horse chestnut in a dose of 100 mg once per day.
Compression Socks
Compression socks or stockings are commonly used as a way to manage varicose veins. They work by applying graduated pressure to the lower legs and thighs, thus promoting venous return and reducing venous pressure. These socks may help improve circulation and reduce vein swelling. A 2020 study analyzed the impact of compression socks on varicose vein walls. Researchers noted improvements in endothelial function and reductions in inflammatory and coagulation markers. Additionally, the compression socks may positively influence the vein’s wall health.
Maintain A Healthy Weight
Easier said than done, right? Statistically, people who are either overweight or obese are more likely to develop varicose veins. Carrying excess body weight increases the pressure on your veins, which can contribute to inflammation or reflux, especially in the largest veins, such as the saphenous vein in the legs. A recent report found a connection between obesity and varicose veins. For those who are overweight, varicose veins are more difficult to access and treat because they go unnoticed until they inflame to such a degree that they become problematic.
Massage, Dry Brushing, And Naturopathy
According to a 2013 study, manual lymphatic drainage on patients with chronic venous disease improved clinical stages. This therapy also improved hemodynamic parameters and quality of life. Dry brushing, which involves stimulating circulation and lymphatic drainage, is also a form of manual drainage. A separate study looked at the combined effect of yoga and naturopathy on uncomplicated varicose veins. Results suggested that this combination therapy reduced inflammatory markers and blood pressure. Researchers stated that this indicated potential recovery in endothelial tissue inflammation within the microvascular system of patients with varicose veins.
Essential Oils
Essential oils offer impressive healthy benefits, assisting with clearing the sinuses, remedying skin issues, and also improving hormonal balances. Researchers note that they may also be able to improve blood flow and lower inflammatory markers. When it comes to varicose veins, cypress essential oil seems to have an ability to increase circulation, in addition to supporting overall circulatory system function. To experiment, try rubbing five drops of cypress essential oil on the problematic area twice daily. Just make sure to dilute the cypress oil in olive oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil before topically applying. That will help you avoid skin irritation, such as blisters, redness, or other skin issues.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
