Varicose veins are a painful and ugly reality for about 40 million people in the United States. It’s no wonder that sufferers are on a quest to find simple and easy treatment options. Supplements are one such option that patients have told me they tried. While supplements do offer an array of health benefits, the question is whether or not they help with varicose veins.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that supplements can cure or improve the appearance of varicose veins. There, however, are some supplements that may help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. For example, supplements such as horse chestnut extract may help to improve circulation and reduce swelling. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements, as they can interact with certain medications and may have side effects.
The Connection Between Horse Chestnut Extract and Vein Reflux
One supplement that I can recommend is horse chestnut extract. It’s been shown to help reduce the amount of vein reflux and many patients report that their legs feel better with fewer symptoms. It works causing a constriction of the veins. As the veins tighten, the valves work more effectively, reducing the pooling of blood. It doesn’t prevent the condition from worsening, but of all the available supplements, horse chestnut extract has some positive effects on vein symptoms.
It comes in pill form and can be found in Walmart, Walgreens/CVS, or your local natural grocers. Follow the instructions on the brand that you find at your store but it’s usually one tablet twice a day. You’ll know in about a week if it’s going to provide the benefit you need.
What Else Can You Do for Varicose Veins?
While not supplements, there are other “natural” remedies that you can take to help slow the progression of a vein condition and reduce the symptoms.
Some helpful remedies that may be helpful include:
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Exercise and Regular Movement:
Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, can help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. If you have a sedentary lifestyle, it is important to try to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine and take frequent breaks to move around and stretch if you must sit or stand for long periods. This works because walking causes the foot, calf, and thigh muscles to contract, which helps to massage the circulation and reduce the pressure in the leg. -
Elevation:
Keeping the legs above the heart periodically during the day can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with varicose veins. When you elevate your legs, gravity helps to pull the blood in your veins downward, which can encourage blood flow and help to relieve pressure on the veins. This can also help to reduce swelling in the legs and ankles, which is often a symptom of a vein condition. Do it as much as your schedule and your activity allows and your symptoms demand.
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Compression Stockings:
Wearing compression stockings can help improve circulation and reduce leg swelling. Compression stockings mimic the work of the valves in the lower legs by squeezing them together and stopping the backflow of blood due to vein reflux. -
Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Being overweight or obese can put extra strain on the veins in the legs, increasing the risk of developing varicose veins. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight may help to reduce the risk.
While supplements are good and can help alleviate some of the uncomfortable symptoms of a vein condition, they won’t treat the underlying problem. Same with making these lifestyle changes. They can help to improve circulation and reduce the pressure on the veins and the stagnant circulation. To treat the underlying condition, however, requires vein treatment.
