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Varicose veins are a medical condition where a person’s veins become enlarged and swollen. Varicose veins often cause pain and discomfort. According to a report published by the Times Of India, the problem of varicose veins is rapidly growing in India, with over 10 million cases of the disease every year.
Medical procedures are easily accessible today to treat varicose veins. But, if you wish, you can also try some home remedies which many people swear by. Here we have gathered some common home remedies for varicose veins that you can try without any risks or side effects.
Table of Contents
Common Home Remedies for Varicose Veins
Herbal Remedies
There are several herbal remedies that you can try to get relief from symptoms of varicose veins. (Also Read: Things You Should Know About Varicose Veins). Some of the herbal remedies for varicose veins are discussed below-
Apple cider vinegar
Due to its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar acts as a cleansing product and regulates blood flow. Apply undiluted apple cider vinegar over the affected area, to reduce the bulging of the varicose veins. Do this on a regular basis before going to bed and again the next morning for a couple of months.
Tomatoes
The flesh of the tomatoes contains anti-coagulants that dilute the blood and thereby, prevent the pooling of blood in the veins. Tomatoes also contain flavonoids that strengthen the walls of the blood vessels. Hence, keep tomato slices on the legs to circulate blood in the legs. So, yes tomatoes work as an excellent remedy for varicose veins.
Cayenne powder
Rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids, cayenne pepper is a wonderful remedy for varicose veins. It eases out the pain of the congested, swollen veins by increasing blood circulation. To reap the benefits of cayenne powder, add one teaspoon of the powder in a glass of warm water and mix it. Drink the mixture three times a day for a few months. You will definitely experience the symptoms of varicose veins vanishing
Olive oil
Olive oil has anti-inflammatory, toning, and soothing properties that eventually helps to reduce the enlarged veins. The oil is also rich in essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and minerals that help the blood to flow through the veins more easily. You can use this by mixing an equal amount of olive oil and vitamin E oil and warming it. After that, massage the mixture over the veins for at least two months.
Garlic
Garlic plays an essential part in maintaining the blood’s circulatory system. It produces allicin and ajoene that prevent inflammation of the veins and blood clots. These sulfurous compounds improve blood circulation through the veins of the body. Garlic also contains quercetin which is another flavonoid that strengthens the blood vessels so that it can bear any damage.
Butcher’s broom
This contains a compound, ruscogenin that reduces inflammation while constricting the veins. Butcher’s broom is a great remedy for relieving aches and discomfort of varicose veins. Supplements of butcher’s broom are rich in vitamins B and C along with calcium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, selenium, silicon, and zinc. These nutrients not only reduces inflammation in the veins but they also improve the blood flow in the legs by tightening and strengthening the veins.
Also Read: 8 Foods For Varicose Veins Patients
Witch hazel
This is a boon for people suffering from various skin diseases and vascular issues such as varicose veins. Witch hazel acts as an astringent because it contains tannins, flavonoids, essential oils, choline, and saponins. It tightens the veins and provides relief by shrinking the tissue and acting as a mild sedative. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, witch hazel is also used for strengthening the veins.
Horse chestnut seeds
Horse chestnut seed effectively reduces the appearance of varicose veins. The seeds contain a compound known as aescin. Aescin is known to provide elastic strength to veins and to prevent the release of enzymes that can potentially damage capillary walls. The gel has an ‘anti-inflammatory’ and anti-swelling effect which are actually the two most common symptoms of varicose veins.
Parsley
This can cure several blood-related problems including varicose veins as this contains antioxidants that can protect the cells from free radical damage. Parsley can be easily absorbed by the skin and thereby, reduces blemishes and scars, which makes it an ideal home remedy for varicose veins. Not only antioxidants, but this is also rich in vitamins A, K, C, and E, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and other collagen properties that can increase blood circulation.
Gotu Kola
It is a herb that helps in reducing the swelling of varicose veins. Not only that, but it also strengthens the connective tissue. Gotu Kola contains triterpene compounds that slow down the degenerative process.
Marigold
Marigold is another effective remedy for varicose veins. It contains flavonoids, triterpene, saponins, and carotenoids. These compounds work to cure varicose veins by increasing venous tone and improving lymphatic drainage. It also has toning and soothing properties. Thus marigold also proves to be a wonderful remedy for varicose veins.
Food with flavonoids are a must for varicose veins!
Flavonoids improve blood circulation by preventing the pooling of blood in the veins. These compounds reduce blood pressure in the arteries and relax the blood vessels. All these factors contribute to reducing varicose veins.
Here is a list of foods that contain flavonoids are-
- Vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, spinach and broccoli
- Citrus fruits such as berries, pears, melon and oranges, lemon, grapefruit
- Cocoa
Dietary changes play a vital role in varicose veins
Maintain a low-sodium diet to retain water. Some of the foods that are high in potassium can minimize water retention. Potassium-rich foods are-
-Lentils and white beans
-Potatoes
-Leafy vegetables
-Some fish such as salmon and tuna
-Almonds and pistachio nuts
Foods that are rich in fiber-
-Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots
-Wholegrain meals such as barley and rye
-Peas, beans and pulses
-Nuts and seeds
Lifestyle Changes
Exercises
One of the contributing factors of varicose veins is high blood pressure. If you exercise regularly, it increases blood circulation which helps to regulate blood that has collected in the veins. So try these low-impact exercises to get yourself moving-
- Swimming
- Walking
- Cycling
- Yoga
(Also Read: 9 Yoga Poses That Can Help Cure Varicose Veins )
Keep the legs elevated
Due to our sitting jobs, the blood tends to flow downwards. To improve circulation, keep the legs elevated above the heart level. This improves the blood circulation back towards the heart so that it can be circulated throughout the body.
Also Read: Stockings Really Help Prevent Varicose Veins
Massage the legs
Gently massage the affected areas so that the blood can pass through the veins. You can get the best results with massage oils or moisturizers. But remember to be gentle near the varicose veins.
Wear loose-fitting clothes
Wearing tight-fitting clothes so that you do not restrict blood flow. Instead of high heels, wear flat shoes so that the blood is regulated.
Disclaimer- These home remedies should be performed after proper consultation with the doctor as these can have some adverse effects.
Final words from Pristyn Care
Varicose veins can turn severe into spider veins if left untreated for long. As home remedies can take some time to show results, you can try the most advanced laser treatment for curing varicose veins. The treatment is minimally invasive and offers a faster recovery. Want to know more? Comment on the section below.
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