Vitamin C [1Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health ] has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and supports vein function in several ways. Vitamin C stimulates the production of endothelial cells, protects nitric oxide, and promotes the production of collagen, an important component of vein walls. In this way, vitamin C protects and supports healthy veins and prevents endothelial dysfunction, which can lead to the development of varicose veins.
Bioflavonoid [2Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health ] phytochemicals have a wealth of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood-thinning properties. Bioflavonoids have been shown to improve venous circulation in people with chronic venous insufficiency. Whole plant foods such as berries, apples, pomegranates, onions, garlic, green tea, broccoli, and kale are rich in bioflavonoids.
Horse chestnut [3Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health4Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health ] extracts improve vascular resistance and reduce the pathological permeability of capillary walls that causes contraction of skin cells and other body tissues, have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties that can successfully increase 'venous tone' and thus reduce the occurrence of varicose veins. Horse chestnut extracts contain the active ingredient aescin, a blood-thinning agent that improves the elastic strength of veins and prevents the release of enzymes that damage capillary walls. Aescin is commonly used to improve vein health and reduce inflammation to improve chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition that can cause varicose veins, leg swelling, and leg pain. Horse chestnut extract increases blood flow in the veins, which improves symptoms of varicose and spider veins. Horse chestnut extract is as effective as compression therapy in reducing swelling and volume of the legs.
Butcher's broom root [5Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health 6* ] has anti-inflammatory, vasoconstrictor, and hemostatic properties; it contains ruscogenene and neoruscogenin, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and cause vein contraction; these chemicals potentially improve blood circulation by constricting blood vessels, preventing blood from pooling in the veins, a problem that leads to the ankle and leg swelling, heaviness, and cramps. For the treatment of venous disorders, it is recommended to use butcher's broom root extract together with vitamin C.
Cayenne pepper [7Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health 8* ] is considered a miracle cure for varicose veins due to its ability to dissolve blood clots that have suddenly clogged arteries or veins. Being very rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids, it increases blood circulation and relieves the pain of clogged, swollen veins. Capsaicin is an active ingredient in cayenne pepper that benefits veins due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and blood-thinning properties. Cayenne pepper strengthens the arteries and blood vessels. It also stimulates the metabolism and helps with weight loss
Gotu kola [9Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health ] contains a chemical called the triterpene fraction of Centella Asiatica (TTFCA). TTFCA is particularly beneficial for varicose veins because it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. These connective tissues are needed to strengthen the inner lining and walls of veins. Stronger veins mean fewer varicose veins. Collagen and elastin are components of healthy skin that we lose as we age. Gotu kola can also help with venous insufficiency by reducing swelling and improving blood flow. In this condition, blood vessels lose their elasticity, blood pools in the legs, and fluid leaks from the blood vessels.
Extracts from grape seeds [10Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health ] contain antioxidants known as oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPC) and are used to relieve symptoms associated with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiencies, such as pain and swelling. Grape seed extracts are used to treat a variety of circulatory disorders, including varicose veins and spider veins. Grape seed extract also improves the flexibility of the arteries that carry blood away from the heart and promotes overall circulation. Edema, or swelling caused by surgery or injury, seems to disappear more quickly with the use of grape seed extract.
Rutin [11Trusted Source, PubMed Central, Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health ] is a flavonoid (plant pigment) found in some vegetables and fruits. Rutin can strengthen blood vessels and is used to treat varicose veins, internal bleeding, and hemorrhoids, and prevent strokes due to broken veins or arteries (hemorrhagic strokes). Rutin is also used to prevent mucositis, a side effect of cancer treatment. This is a painful condition characterized by swelling and ulceration of the mouth or mucous membrane of the digestive tract.
The supplied information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. Always consult your physician or another qualified professional for medical advice.
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