Natural Alternatives

While natural alternatives will not cure or eliminate your varicose veins or spider veins, they can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with leg vein problems. In addition, taking preventative steps with any medical problem can help yield a healthier mind and body.

Dietary Supplements
People have always believed that certain vitamins and natural herbs (vitamins C & E, flavonoids, butcher’s broom, gotu kola, and horse chestnut seed extract) are good for the venous system.

Horse chestnut seed extract and some flavonoids are known to improve the heaviness, achiness, and ankle swelling secondary to venous disease. In fact, this extract has actually been used in Europe for many years and has been clinically tested in double-blind placebo controlled studies. In 1996, the medical journal “Lancet” reported that horse chestnut seed extract worked as wells as compression stockings in decreasing the swelling and symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency. Horse chestnut seed extract is now available in capsules with a standardized dose of the active principle HCE50.

However, care must be taken when considering any natural remedy. Women who are pregnant and people suffering from other medical conditions or taking other medications should consult their physician before taking dietary supplements.

Topical Creams
Few studies have shown proven results from using topical creams in the treatment of vein problems. Spider veins are generally the result of damaged veins, which cannot be repaired by an external cream, although temporary appearance changes may be possible due to the vaso-constricting properties of the cream.

Barotherapy
Barotherapy is a method proven to reduce local swelling through pressure on the legs. It is a treatment reserved for people who have chronic swelling (Circ-Aid).

Leg Massage
Legs are responsible for locomotion, balance, and weight-bearing for the entire body. Elevating or massaging legs can improve vein circulation and lessen symptoms.

Makeup
In lieu of treatment, many people with varicose or spider veins use corrective makeup to hide the unsightliness of problem veins. Several manufacturers offer heavy-duty waterproof opaque makeup to diminish the appearance of veins (Covermark, Dermablend).

The Vein Treatment Center
327 East 65th Street, New York, N.Y. 10021 Ph: 212.249.6117

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