Varicose veins are superficial veins which appear abnormally enlarged and often have a knobbly, darkish-blue appearance which bulges out from under the skin. Commonly occurring on the legs, they are due to weakness in the venous walls, valvular incompetence or increased intraluminal pressure. Abnormal widening of the veins results in blood flowing in the wrong direction. This can cause the veins to stretch even further. Varicose veins occur in 10-20% of the population and at any age, however they are most commonly occur between 50-60 years of age.
Risk factors for varicose veins
Risk factors for the development of varicose veins include:
- Family history
- Gender: females are 3 times more likely to develop varicose veins
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Standing or sitting for long periods of time
- Lack of exercise
- Being immobile for long periods of time (e.g. being confined to bed)
- Trauma or surgery
- Thrombophilia
Primary varicose veins are usually asymptomatic and are mainly associated with only cosmetic concerns. Secondary varicose veins are of greater concern and are usually accompanied with the following signs and symptoms:
- Aching/tired legs, relieved by elevation
- Skin ulcerations
- Ankle oedema
- Skin rashes, such as eczema, causing thin, dry, itchy skin
- Brownish marks on the skin surface due to erupted capillaries
- Blood clots forming within veins
- Leg cramps
- Minor injuries on the leg that bleed more than normal and take a longer time to heal
- Darkened skin on the legs due to a build-up of waste products
Preventing varicose veins
Avoid prolonged sitting or standing as these activities can contribute to the development of varicose veins. Avoid wearing high heels as they affect the proper functioning of the larger veins.
Maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking and get regular moderate exercise.
Eat a diet rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids which help to strengthen collagen tissues. These include berries, citrus, dark green leafy vegetables, onions and garlic.
Following a Mediterranean diet will help to ensure a healthy heart, blood vessels and circulation. It is recommended to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, cold-water fish, olive oil and low in processed foods.
Increase circulation. Foods that can be included as part of the diet that increase circulation include chili, ginger and garlic.
Relief for varicose veins
Follow the same preventative guidelines mentioned above as well as further recommendations that assist in relieving the symptoms, improving the appearance and preventing complications.
Lifestyle suggestions
Compression stockings can prevent the veins from stretching and causing pain. These are particularly helpful for people who stand all day.
Elevate the legs periodically by lying down or using a footstool. This helps to relieve the symptoms of varicose veins by increasing venous return.
Avoid heavy lifting, crossing your legs and putting any unnecessary pressure on the legs. If you are standing or sitting for extended periods, take regular breaks to walk or stretch. If sitting at a desk use a low foot stool to rest your feet.
Cold compresses of witch hazel and yarrow may help to provide temporary relief. This can be achieved by saturating a cloth in a herbal infusion that has been chilled in the fridge and applying to the affected area. Applying an ice pack can also aid in pain relief. Finish a shower or bath with cold water for a minute to help increase circulation and reduce pain in the legs.
Acupuncture and massage may be helpful in reducing venous congestion and improving overall circulation.
Herbs for healthy veins
Horsechestnut, Butcher’s broom, Red vine leaf and grape seed extract are herbs useful for vein health.
Horsechestnut has been traditionally used for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency and to help alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins. In an article that reviewed 5 clinical trials, it was found that extracts from the fresh seed of horsechestnut reduced lower leg oedema, alleviated leg pain, heaviness and itching.
Butcher’s broom is a similar herb that is also used to increase venous tone. A study has shown it can reduce ankle oedema and the sensation of heavy, tense, tingling legs.
Red vine leaf is indicated for varicose veins due to its abiltiy to increase oxygen supply and can help increase microcirculation in people suffering from venous insufficiency. It also offers an antioxidant action.
Grape seed extract is another popular choice for treatment as it stimulates circulation, neutralises free radical damage as an antioxidant and strengthens connective tissue, including that of the cardiovascular system.
Circulatory herbs such as yarrow, hawthorn and gingko can also be helpful in improving circulation in the legs.
Topical application
Herbs useful for topical application in a cream base include horsechestnut, butcher’s broom, comfrey, calendula and witchhazel. Aloe vera gel can offer a cooling effect on hot, inflamed varicose.
Important Nutrients
Vitamin E may help improve circulation and reduce the “heavy legs” feeling.
Vitamin C and bioflavonoids, especially the bioflavonoid rutin, are important in blood vessel maintainance and strength and can aid in circulation. Vitamin C is a beneficial antioxidant.
Omega-3 essential fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, pain and keep blood vessels soft and pliable. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce thrombotic risk in susceptible individuals.
Many dietary, lifestyle and natural remedies can be adopted to help in not only the prevention of varicose veins but in their management. It is important to focus on activities and nutrients that assist in improving circulation and in maintaining healthy veins.
References
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/varicose-veins-and-spider-veins
- Beers M. (2003). The Merck Manual of Medical Information (2nd ed.), Pocket Books, United States of America
- Mills S, Bone K. (2000). Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy, Churchill Livingstone, Australia
- Suter A, et al. Treatment of patients with venous insufficiency with fresh plant horse chestnut seed extract: a review of 5 clinical studies. Adv Ther. 2006 Jan-Feb;23(1):179-90 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16644618
- Vanscheidt W, et al. Efficacy and safety of a butcher’s broom preparation (Ruscus aculeatus L. extract) compared to placebo in patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. Arzneimittelforschung. 2002;52(4):243-50 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12040966
- Grau M, et al. The red-vine-leaf extract AS195 increases nitric oxide synthase-dependent nitric oxide generation and decreases oxidative stress in endothelial and red blood cells. Pharmacol Res Perspect. 2016 Feb 8;4(1):e00213 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26977302
- Balch PA, Balch JF. (2000). Prescription for nutritional healing (3rd edition), Avery Books, United States of America
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