Home remedies for varicose veins
Varicose veins occur when a person’s veins become swollen and enlarged. In some people, they can cause pain and discomfort. A range of home treatments may help to reduce the appearance and pain of varicose veins.
Many adults will experience varicose veins at some point. There are several medical treatments for this condition, though a person may also wish to try natural home remedies to relieve their symptoms.
In this article, we look at 10 natural ways to treat varicose veins at home.
Varicose veins can develop when small valves in the veins become weak. These valves usually stop blood flowing backward through the veins, and when they are damaged blood can pool in the veins. This causes twisted and swollen veins that also become very visible.
Varicose veins can be noticeable because of their dark blue or purple appearance, they also often bulge out from underneath the skin.
Other symptoms of varicose veins include:
- burning or throbbing sensation in the legs
- uncomfortable legs that feel heavy or achy
- muscle cramps that can be more noticeable at night
- swelling of the feet and ankles
- dry or itchy skin that appears thinner over the varicose vein
If a person has varicose veins, they can try the following home remedies to help manage the condition and improve symptoms:
1. Exercise
Regular exercise encourages better blood circulation in the legs, which helps to push along the blood that has collected in the veins. Exercise also helps to lower a person’s blood pressure, which is another contributing factor to varicose veins.
Low-impact exercises help to get the calf muscles working without excessive strain. Effective, low-impact exercises include:
- swimming
- walking
- cycling
- yoga
2. Compression stockings
Compression stockings are available from most pharmacies and can help by applying pressure to the legs. This aids the muscles and veins to move blood toward the heart.
A study from 2018 found that people who used knee-high compression stockings with a pressure of 18 to 21 mmHg for one week, reported a reduction in the pain and aching associated with varicose veins.
3. Plant extracts
A review study from 2006 suggests that horse chestnut extract, Aesculus hippocastanum L., may help to reduce leg pain, heaviness, and itching in people with chronic venous insufficiency, which is a major cause of varicose veins. Aesculus hippocastanum L. is available to purchase in health stores and online.
A review study reports that sea pine extract, Pinus maritima, and Butcher’s broom extract, Ruscus aculeatus, may both reduce leg swelling, or edema, that is often associated with varicose veins.
Plant extracts and essential oils should be diluted in carrier oils before being applied topically or used in a diffuser for aromatherapy.
4. Dietary changes
Salty or sodium-rich foods can cause the body to retain water, so cutting down on salty food can minimize water retention. Foods high in potassium can help to reduce water retention.
Foods that are high in potassium include:
- almonds and pistachio nuts
- lentils and white beans
- potatoes
- leafy vegetables
- some fish, such as salmon and tuna
Foods with fiber help to keep the bowels moving and prevent constipation. This may be important, as straining can aggravate damaged valves or make them worse.
Foods that are high in fiber include:
- nuts, seeds, and legumes
- oats, wheat, and flaxseed
- whole-grain foods
People who are overweight are more likely to experience varicose veins, therefore, shedding any excess pounds can reduce the pressure on the veins and alleviate swelling and discomfort.
5. Eat more flavonoids
Adding foods that contain flavonoids may also help a person to shrink their varicose veins.
Flavonoids improve blood circulation, which will keep the blood flowing, and make it less likely to pool in the veins. They also help to reduce blood pressure in the arteries and can relax blood vessels, all of which can reduce varicose veins.
Foods that contain flavonoids include:
- vegetables, including onions, bell peppers, spinach, and broccoli
- citrus fruits and grapes, cherries, apples, and blueberries
- cocoa
- garlic
6. Herbal remedies
According to the National Institute of HealthTrusted Source, taking grape seed extract, Vitis vinifera, orally may help to reduce swelling in the lower legs and other symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, though there is currently limited evidence for its effectiveness.
A person prescribed with blood-thinning medication should avoid taking grape seed extract, as a dietary supplement, as it can interact with the medication and increase the risk of bleeding.
7. Choose non-restrictive clothing
Wearing tight-fitting clothes can restrict blood flow. A person may find that their circulation is improved by wearing loose-fitting clothes that do not restrict the blood supply to the lower body.
Wearing flat shoes instead of high heels may also help with varicose veins in the legs.
8. Keep the legs elevated
Keeping the legs elevated, ideally at the same height as the heart or above it will help to improve circulation. This reduces the pressure in the leg veins and gravity will help the blood to flow smoothly back to the heart.
A person should aim to keep their legs elevated if they are going to be sitting down for long periods of time, such as during work or rest.
9. Massage
Gently massaging the affected areas can help to keep the blood moving through the veins. A person can use gentle massage oils or moisturizer for optimal effects.
It is crucial to avoid pressing directly onto the veins, however, as this may damage fragile tissues.
10. Keep moving
Avoid sitting for long periods of time. If a person has to sit for long periods of time for work, they should aim to get up and move around or change position frequently to keep the blood flowing smoothly.
Avoid sitting with crossed legs, as this can further restrict blood flow to the legs and feet, which may add to circulation problems.