Expert: jackie barr - 3/18/2004

Question
Can herbs help with varicose veins or reverse the problem? Can you please tell me what herbs you recomend.

Thanks Rosa

Answer
HI Rosa

There are so  many wonderful herbs that help varicose veins.  I am listing what I feel is the top herbs for you  to look at.

Diet plays a part, so eat lots of fibre – fruit (especially cherries, blackberries and blueberries), plus wholemeal bread, beans, pasta, salad and vegetables.

You should also take regular exercise and not stand immobile for too long. Support tights really do help – and these days you can buy them in many different colours. The black ones look no different from the opaque, high fashion, highly priced alternatives in department stores.

A surprising but very common cause of varicose veins is constipation. Contrast bathing with alternate hot and cold water helps improve circulation, and useful therapies include massage and aromatherapy. Don't sit with your legs crossed or sit for long periods on hard chairs; both restrict the return flow of blood from the legs to the heart.

If you've already had varicose veins, the herbs may help reduce the chance of a repeat episode.


Horse chestnut

Gotu kola

Butcher's broom

Bilberry

Grape seed

Pine bark

Bromelain

Vitamin E

Rutin


• Horse chestnut standardized extract-contains flavonoids and tannins that provide anti-inflammatory and astringent benefits, and features bioactive saponins, which have long been used in Europe to relieve painful leg conditions.

• Butcher's broom standardized extract-has vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory benefits and contains glycolic acid and saponins (including ruscogenins), which support circulation and maintain blood viscosity.

• Flavonoids (rutin, hesperidin and lemon bioflavonoids)-known to strengthen capillary walls, reduce capillary fragility and increase the tone and integrity of the venous walls.

• Ascorbic acid-commonly known as vitamin C, ascorbic acid complements bioflavonoids to give them optimal effect; it also has antioxidant properties.

If you need added information--let me know.

Take Care
Jackie