Varicose veins are a hugely common problem everywhere in the world. The veins appear when abnormally enlarged veins appear close to the skin’s surface. The veins usually occur in the calf and thigh area of your leg, and can sometimes prevent painful symptoms including burning, throbbing and tingling.
The medical treatments for varicose can often be expensive, so here are five DIY remedies to decrease the severity and discomfort you may be experiencing!
1. Parsley
Parsley is rich in vitamin C and can be a powerful antioxidant. The plant also contains rutin which can strengthen your capillaries, which can reduce the pain associated with varicose veins.
For treating varicose veins boil a handful of chopped fresh parsley in a cup for about 5 minutes. Remove it from the heat, and allow the solution to cool to lukewarm. Stain the solution, then add one drop each of rose and marigold essential oils. Refrigerate. Using a cotton ball, apply the solution to your varicose veins. Using daily for several months should start to show results. Eating raw parsley has also been proved to help.
2. Blueberries
Strengthening the walls of your veins and promoting good blood circulation, blueberries are a great at home treatment for varicose veins. Rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, eating blueberries raw, or making a tea using a spoonful of the fruit in a cup of warm water can decrease the discomfort of varicose veins.
3. Marigold
The marigold flower is another herb that can improve the symptoms of varicose veins. The plant makes your veins less susceptible to degeneration over time. You can make a tea using marigold flowers, which helps to repair the damaged tissues and can reduce swelling in your lower limbs as well as aid in pain reduction.
If tea isn’t your thing, you can make a cream by crushing the flower and mixing with some water, then adding to your regular moisturiser. Applying this to your skin before bed each night will give the best results.
4. Chestnut
Chestnuts are widely regarded as one of the most effective home remedies for varicose veins.
You want to use 5 tablespoons of chestnut bark (the equivalent of 50g) with 1 litre of water. Bring the water to the boil and add the chestnut bark. Let it sit for around 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and drink while warm. Repeat every day for best results.
5. Essential oils
Massage has always and will always remain one of the best ways to reduce and prevent varicose veins. You should use circular motions and start at your ankles, working up to the thighs.
Here are some of the best oils to use on your skin:
- Lemongrass oil
- Ginger oil
- Chamomile oil
- Clary sage