Varicose veins are typically veins that are blue and/or purple that are twisted and enlarged. The reason varicose veins develop is because the one way valves located within the veins sometimes weaken. When this occurs the blood will begin to collect within the vein, which makes them larger than normal and more obviously bright purple/blue.
It is most common to find individual’s with varicose veins in their legs. The reason why is the veins in the legs work against gravity and more pressure is placed on leg veins as a result of people standing on them. This affliction is more common in women than in men, but it still affects approximately 15% of men.
Some people will simply have varicose veins that are unattractive. However, others may experience symptoms like pain, aching, and swelling. They also may be a sign of circulatory disorders or even a sign of heart disease. Because of this it is important to pay close attention to varicose veins and why they might exist. Without treatment, varicose veins can lead to additional health concerns including blood clots, skin ulcers, and even and inflammation of the veins known as phlebitis.
Varicose Veins are caused by many things including aging, chronic constipation, genetics, being overweight, hormonal changes, and even prolonged standing or sitting.
There are many treatments for varicose veins, but horse chestnut extract is a great natural remedy. Aescin is a natural compound found in horse chestnut extract and it helps block the enzymes that the body releases that damage the walls of capillaries.
A research study was conducted using horse chestnut extract for those afflicted with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, which is related. The findings were that the symptoms of varicose veins were reduced including swelling and leg pain. The benefit, too, is that horse chestnut extract is all natural. There have been no studies that show horse chestnut extract assists with the unattractiveness of varicose veins, but it does appear to help with the symptoms making it a worthwhile short term treatment option. Side effects are rare with the horse chestnut supplement so it is safe for most people to take. However, it is important to talk with your doctor before adding anything to your diet because there could be an interaction with other drugs you are taking. Always talk with your doctor, first, before you begin taking any supplement for any ailment.
The FDA does not approve whole horse chestnut because it might cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, convulsions, headache, and even in some cases death. Any crude form of horse chestnut should be avoided. Only extracts of horse chestnut that have the esculin, a toxin, removed should be ingested.
Those who are affected with liver or kidney disease or who are nursing or pregnant should not take horse chestnut as a safety precaution.