Varicose veins develop when small valves inside your veins stop working properly. In healthy veins, there are a series of tiny valves that open and close in order to allow the blood to flow smoothly to the heart in one direction. If these valves get damaged or weakened, the blood flows backwards causing the veins to become swollen and enlarged.
There are multiple things that can cause varicose veins like: age, weight, long periods of standing or sitting, pregnancy, genetics, being female, and so on. Here at Bhaskar Health we did some research on how to treat your varicose veins at home and how to prevent them in the future.
1. Tomato seeds
Tomato seeds, contain salicylic acid which has properties that are similar to aspirin and work as an anticoagulant, for preventing blood clots and improving blood flow. In addition, tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which concentrates in our cell membranes and prevents damage to the lipids in our cells. If applied to the skin topically, it reduces the appearance of the damaged veins and it influences the thickness, strength, and fluidity of our membranes, allowing nutrients to be absorbed and preventing toxins from entering.
Preparation and usage:
- Chop 2 tomatoes in small pieces. (try not to lose any of the seeds)
- Put them in the blender for a few seconds until they become a smooth pureed mixture.
- Apply topically on the skin 3 - 4 times a day, for at least 2 months.
2. Olive oil
Increasing blood circulation is essential when it comes to treating varicose veins. Olive oil has anti-inflammatory, toning, and soothing properties that, after being absorbed through the skin, will reduce the size of dilated and enlarged veins and will activate blood flow. Olive oil also has a high content of essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and minerals. Due to the high content of Omega-3 fatty acids it improves the passage of blood through the veins and restores the function of the unidirectional valves.
Preparation and usage:
- Add some olive oil to a bowl and warm it up in order to activate it.
- Using a cotton pad, massage your skin with the warm oil for several minutes.
- Repeat twice daily for at least 2 months.
3. Garlic, lemon, & olive oil
Garlic, is used for many conditions that are related to the heart and the circulatory system. Garlic produces allicin and ajoene, which are sulfurous compounds that have the ability to improve blood circulation. They contribute to the prevention of inflamed blood vessels and to the prevention of blood clots. Garlic has very powerful anti-inflammatory properties that are ideal for reducing the swelling of varicose veins, as well as, the discomfort that they can cause. In addition, garlic has quercetin, which is a flavonoid that helps strengthen the veins and blood vessels, preventing them from suffering any damage.
Lemons are high in vitamin C, B6, A, E, folate, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, and protein. The large amounts of vitamin C helps protect cells from damaging free radicals and prevent oxidative damage. In addition, it helps to prevent varicose veins, high blood pressure, and skin wrinkling according to a study done by the American Society of Clinical Nutrition.
Preparation and usage:
- Slice up 10 garlic cloves and crush them with a pestle and mortar until you’re left with a paste.
- Add the paste to a clean jar.
- Extract the juice from 3 lemons and add it to the jar.
- Add 4 tbsp of olive oil.
- Leave overnight (10 - 12 hours).
- Using a cotton pad, apply to the affected area twice a day for at least one month.
4. Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper is considered a miracle treatment for varicose veins. It is a rich source of vitamin C and bioflavonoids (an antioxidant which is used to treat allergies, viruses, or arthritis and other inflammatory conditions), it also helps reduce atherosclerosis, encourages fibrinolytic activity, and prevents factors that lead to the formation of blood clots, all of which can help reduce and treat varicose veins.
Preparation and usage:
- Add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper powder to a cup of hot water and stir it.
- Drink this mixture 3 times a day for 1 to 2 months.
5. Apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, & carrots
Apple cider vinegar has a lot of protein, enzymes, and friendly bacteria, however the main substance in apple cider vinegar is acetic acid which can kill harmful bacteria or prevent it from multiplying. In addition, several animal studies have shown that vinegar can reduce blood triglycerides, blood clots, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Aloe vera gel also contains salicylic acid and other antiseptic compounds that kill off the bacteria that cause acne which makes it a great natural remedy for breakouts and an excellent cleanser for the skin. It is also packed with minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and E, which all work together to reinforce the skin’s barrier.
Carrots, are a great source of several vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A (from beta-carotene), biotin, vitamin K (phylloquinone), potassium, sulfur, and vitamin B6. They help in repairing skin tissue in case of damage. It can penetrate the skin and help it with recovering faster from external wounds and trauma.
Preparation and usage:
- Get one medium/large carrot and grate it.
- Get a strainer and extract the juice from the grated carrot into a bowl.
- Add 1 tbsp of carrot juice to a new bowl.
- Add 1 tbsp of aloe vera gel into the same bowl.
- Add 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar into the same bowl.
- And finally, mix well.
- Use a cotton pad and apply topically at least 3 times a day for a month.
6. Witch hazel
Witch hazel gets its medicinal properties from the tannins, flavonoids, essential oils, choline, and saponins. Its properties make it highly effective in treating skin ailments of all kinds including eczema and psoriasis. According to the University of Michigan Health System, pharmacological studies indicate that witch hazel strengthens veins and acts as an anti-inflammatory. Tannins also account for witch hazel's astringent action, which help tighten distended veins and repair their normal structure. The plant's key constituents help shrink tissue and act as mild sedatives to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins.
Preparation and usage:
- Soak a washcloth in witch hazel and place it on the affected area for a couple of hours. Do this 3 times a day for 1 to 2 months.
- You can also fill your tub with lukewarm water and add 15 to 20 drops of distilled witch hazel. Soak your legs in the tub for at least 15 minutes. Then wash with clean water. Repeat daily.
7. Cabbage
Cabbage, is rich in insoluble fiber, beta-carotene, vitamins - B1, B6, K, E, and C, and a number of minerals like calcium, iodine, magnesium, iron, and sulphur. Cabbage is also loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals. When these antioxidants and phytochemicals touch the affected area they reach the veins through the pores and help the blood clot, thereby stopping the seepage of blood.
Preparation and usage:
- Get 3 leaves of cabbage and chop them into very small pieces.
- Then put them in the blender and start blending.
- Get a strainer and empty the mixture into it in order to extract the juice from the cabbage leaves.
- Apply topically at least 3 times a day.
8. Horse chestnut seed
Horse chestnut seed is rich in quercetin and kaempferol glycosides, 2 very powerful antioxidants with intense disease-fighting capabilities. Horse chestnut extract is one of the effective treatments for free radicals. Regular use of horse chestnut extract can cure chronic venous insufficiency. This is because, at the lowest level, the extract of the horse chestnut seeds is thought to prevent the breakdown of proteins in the capillary walls. Horse chestnut seeds have been utilized for a long time to cure varicose veins thanks to their anti-swelling and anti-inflammatory properties which aid in raising your venous tone and lessen the symptoms associated with varicose veins.
Preparation and usage:
- Purchase a horse chestnut extract gel.
- Use the gel externally on the affected area 3 times daily massaging it into the skin.
- When used regularly, it can significantly reduce leg pain and swelling.
NOTE: Horse chestnut contains significant amounts of a POISON called esculin and can cause DEATH if eaten raw.
9. Marigold
Marigold, (otherwise known as calendula) is an anti-inflammatory and can fight infections and inflammation. It contains flavonoids, triterpene, saponins, and carotenoids which are thought to act in multiple ways like increasing venous tone, improving lymphatic drainage, and reducing capillary hyperpermeability.
It can be consumed as a beverage or applied topically as an ointment to bring down swelling, ease pain, and stop inflammation. It also has toning and soothing properties that, after being absorbed through the skin, reduce the size of dilated veins and activate blood flow in the affected areas. Massaging this as an ointment into the skin relieves pain and will stimulate the functions of the lymphatic system. This will enable the optimal elimination of the toxins in varicose veins.
Preparation and usage:
- Fill one cup with marigold leaves.
- Then add into a pan with 4 cups of water and boil for 5 minutes.
- Get a cotton cloth, dip it in the mixture, and then apply to the affected area.
- Let it stay until it's completely cooled.
- Apply several times a day for 1 to 2 months.
10. Parsley and rose oil
Parsley is rich in vitamins A, K, C, and E, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, choline, folates, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and copper. It also contains several flavonoid antioxidants that protect the cells from free radical damage, which is responsible for blood related problems.
Parsley is abundant in vitamin C and has potent collagen producing properties. It is also absorbed by the skin's pores very easily and helps reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars which make it an ideal home remedy for preventing and treating varicose veins.
Rose essential oil is made by extracting Rosa Damascena, and researchers have uncovered that it contains several therapeutic compounds known to promote healing in the body. It improves blood circulation, inhibits blood pooling, and strengthens the blood vessels. It is one of the best essential oils for leg veins. By ensuring that the blood vessels stay healthy and unclogged, future occurrences of varicose veins will be prevented.
Preparation and usage:
- Get 1 handful of chopped parsley and place it in a pan.
- Add 1 cup of water, and boil for 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat, cover and let cool until it's lukewarm.
- Strain the liquid from the parsley.
- After that, add 3 tbsp rose oil into the strained liquid and mix them well.
- Dip the cotton ball into the mixture and apply to the affected area.
- Rinse it off with warm water.
- Repeat this twice a day for 2 months.
How to Prevent Varicose Veins in the Future:
1. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
Standing or sitting in one position for a long time makes it harder for your blood to travel to the leg veins against gravity. As a result, the pressure in your veins rises and this can result in damage to the valves of your veins. Moving around even just a little bit every half an hour will decrease the pressure and improve your blood circulation.
2. Exercise
Exercise regularly to improve your leg strength, circulation, and vein strength. Focus on exercises that work your legs, like walking or running. This can improve the appearance of varicose veins and prevent the formation of new ones. It must however be emphasized that the exercise should not be too strenuous and be stopped immediately if there is any discomfort or pain.
3. Maintaining a healthy weight
People who are overweight are more likely to develop varicose veins, especially overweight women and the elderly. This is because carrying excess body weight puts higher amounts of pressure on your veins and this can result in damage in the valves and eventually cause varicose veins. Trying to maintain a healthy weight will also force us to eat healthier and exercise regularly, this way we will be able to easily notice abnormalities in our bodies and treat them in time.
4. Balancing hormones using essential oils
Various essential oils are very beneficial in improving blood circulation while also lowering inflammation and hormonal imbalances. A few of the best essential oils for treating and preventing varicose veins are: cypress essential oil, lemon oil, rose oil, German chamomile, olive oil, vitamin E oil, and evening primrose. Massage the oil of your choice on your legs or the area that your varicose veins begin to show several times a day. In addition, try using essential oils on your skin as often as you can after a shower for smooth skin and your general well-being.
5. Avoid wearing high heels.
High heels change the natural walking motion, shifting the weight to the fore foot and toes and causes the calf muscles to remain contracted. This causes pooling of venous blood in the leg. When the foot is elevated from the floor, the foot veins fill with blood. As the heel and arch of the foot contact the floor, the blood flows into the relaxed calf veins. The calf muscles then contract, which propels blood up to the deep veins and causes varicose veins.
If it is absolutely necessary to wear high heels, there are a few things that you can do to eliminate the damage:
- Limit the heel height.
- Wear heels only on special occasions.
- Wear compression hosiery with high heels.
6. Go on an anti-inflammatory diet.
An anti-inflammatory diet will help reverse inflammation and improve blood flow to your veins. This will make it possible to heal varicose veins faster and prevent future ones from forming. A diet rich in fats, sugars, caffeine, processed foods, and alcohol will cause arterial damage, blood pressure problems, and lower the circulation.
However a diet rich in copper (copper is an essential nutrient that strengthens the skeletal system, stabilizes the immune system, and promotes circulation), bioflavonoids, (reduce swelling in varicose veins), fruits rich in antioxidants and tannins (a naturally occurring element that guards your blood vessels from leakage), and water will help with the prevention of varicose veins.
See here for foods to eat!
Always speak to your doctor before trying anything that could have an impact on your health.
Which home treatment works the best for you and which ones have you tried? Please let us know your experience with varicose veins and how you are treating them or preventing them. We are looking forward to your comments.
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