Varicose veins do not just look bad, but they are also painful. Though they are considered to be more common in women, they can also occur in men, and do not just happen in the legs; they can develop in other body parts too.
Our veins work with the surrounding muscles to pump blood from and to the heart. But, since they work against gravity forces, the leg veins have a challenging job and thus, the lower area of the body happens to be highly prone to varicose veins.
How Do the Veins Work?
The veins have leaflet valves which avert the flowing of blood backwards and away from the heart. But, when they do not function 100 percent, the veins start to enlarge and the blood flow elevates. Damage from varicose veins may worsen the blood flow.
Are Your Hands & Feet Cold all the Time?
The earliest indicators of poor blood flow are cold feet and hands and a feeling of numbness in these areas. When the blood vessels become narrower, they can contribute to minor symptoms or a more serious problem known as Raynaud’s syndrome. During this condition, the extremities turn bluish and whitish in the cold or when the person is stressed.
Natural Remedies to Treat Varicose Veins
Here are 6 potent natural remedies that we discovered on Healthy Holistic Living that may help you alleviate varicose veins:
- Aloe vera cream
Mix a cup of aloe vera gel, half a cup of ACV, and 1 chopped carrot in a blender. Once the paste becomes thick enough, transfer it in a clean container with a lid. Use the paste to massage the affected areas. Leave it on for half an hour before rinsing it off with cold water. Repeat the method on a daily basis for optimal effect.
- Horse chestnut extract
This extract was found by several studies to be highly beneficial in lowering pain and swelling in the legs of people suffering from varicose veins. The recommended range is 400 to 600 mg when aescin, the main compound, is standardized at 100 to 150 mg per day. Remember, never take horse chestnut raw or in tea because there is a toxic compound in it which can only be eliminated during the process of manufacturing for supplement form.
- Massages with essential oils
Massages are highly beneficial for reduction of pain and swelling arising from insufficient blood flow in the veins and muscles. Hence, using essential oils during the process of massage can additionally enhance the blood flow. The best oils you can opt for in this case are fennel, basil, cypress, orange, lemon, and rosemary.
- Leafy liquid
In two litres of water, boil a handful of mint, chamomile, and laurel leaves for 5 minutes. Then, wait for the content to cool down and then strain it. Use the content to add it to your bathwater along with some baking soda for optimal effect. Soak for 10 to 15 minutes on the daily.
- Immersion baths
Fill your bathtub with warm water and mix in a cup of sea salt and a cup of ACV. While soaking, massage your legs with proper pressure. Repeat the procedure 4 times per week. This will reduce leg ache and relax the irritated muscles.
- Ointment with green clay
Did you know that green clay is abundant in potent minerals, antioxidants, and iron oxides? Mix ½ cup of it with some water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste onto the feet and legs and leave it overnight. Feel free to wrap the legs with cloths or plastic for an additional healing effect.
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