5 Alternatives To Treat Varicose Veins

One of the most common circulatory problems is varicose veins and they have a very diverse origin. Discover what are the natural alternatives to improve the discomfort they generate.

Varicose veins are dilations of the blood vessels that hinder the normal flow of blood to the lower parts of the body. Therefore, they impair the return of blood to the heart. They are a physical problem, but also an aesthetic one, therefore, people who have them worry about looking for ways to treat varicose veins.

Before telling you more about the treatment alternatives that exist, we will tell you a little more about the most common causes of varicose veins and other related aspects.

What are the causes of varicose veins?

According to Dr. James Douketis, ” the exact cause of varicose veins is unknown, but the main problem is likely a weakness in the walls of the superficial veins (located just under the skin), which can be inherited.”

Even so, in the popular sphere it is often said that the origin of varicose veins is mainly poor blood circulation. However, varicose veins can also be caused, directly or indirectly, by other factors such as:

• Obesity.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Hypertension.
• High cholesterol.
• Genetic heritage.

Another influential factor that we must take into account is the lack of attention given to cardiovascular health. For this reason, it is advisable to go for an annual medical check-up. Especially if there is a family history or if you suffer from some type of cardiovascular condition.

How to treat varicose veins?

Varicose veins do not have only a medical treatment. Generally, what is recommended is to maintain the regular practice of exercise, as well as a good hydration and diet, and other good habits of life.

On the other hand, the doctor may instruct the patient to wear compression stockings, or to take a supplement with diuretic properties to relieve discomfort.

Additionally, there is surgery as a treatment, although it is reserved for the most serious cases.

As you can see, although treating varicose veins is possible with some very simple practices, the best thing you can do is prevent them by maintaining good lifestyle habits. 

How to prevent varicose veins?

The best thing you can do to take care of your health in every sense is to choose to always adopt and maintain healthy habits. This includes the following:

• Stay well hydrated.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat healthy.
• Avoid standing or sitting for a long time.

Additionally, it would be recommended that you carry out the following actions:

• Wear comfortable shoes daily.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing.

• Stretch every 2 hours (at least in the office).
• Place the legs up , from time to time, so that the blood return can occur more easily.
• Optionally you can massage your legs for 15 or 20 minutes a day.
• Alternate the temperature of the shower water. In this way, blood circulation is promoted. When you use hot water, it should not exceed 38ºC.

Discover: 7 diet tips to prevent varicose veins

Natural alternatives to treat varicose veins

There are various vasoprotective and venotonic drugs. In addition, you can also find several natural alternatives to improve the condition of varicose veins. The effectiveness depends on the frequency of use that they are given. Consult with your doctor about this to find out which is the best option for you.

Alternative medicine also proposes some supplements for the diet. These would help prevent and alleviate the most common discomforts – swelling, heaviness, fluid retention – and would stimulate blood circulation.

In health food stores you can find supplements of:

1. Garlic.
2. Mint.
3. Laurel.
4. Eucalyptus.
5. Calendula.
6. Aloe vera.
7. Carrot.
8. Sea salt.
9. Horse tail.
10. India knut.

Why are all these remedies beneficial?

Among the natural and popular alternatives to relieve varicose veins is also the famous aloe vera plant. This is the plant that provides the most aesthetic benefits. The application of the gel, in cold compresses, directly on the legs helps to  activate the circulation.

On the other hand, mint, laurel and eucalyptus are plants that, according to beliefs, have a cooling effect that is very beneficial to relieve varicose veins. They can be prepared as a tonic or body lotion and applied directly to the skin. Baking soda can be added to the tonic.

Both the leaves and the petals of the calendula are very useful when preparing a paste to improve varicose veins. You can apply the paste and leave it to act overnight. You can also take advantage of the stem of the plant to prepare a refreshing tonic.

Baths in water and sea salt are very relaxing, which considerably help blood circulation to be good. Also, you can add a little apple cider vinegar to the bath to enhance the benefits.

The great advantage of taking advantage of these natural elements is that they are very easy to get and make. However, it is necessary to remember that natural remedies should not be taken as the only treatment, but as a complement.  It is best to take them as additional measures to the recommendations of the treating physician.