How to Heal Varicose Veins

Simple but Effective Treatments to Heal Varicose Veins

When the valves of the veins which carry the blood flow throughout the body become enlarged and inflamed and no longer in working order, varicose veins is the condition that develops. Most commonly varicose veins appear on the legs and can cause problems for an individual whenever they are standing. Symptoms include a painful itching and skin ulceration if they are scratched. Luckily, there are a number of natural treatments which can help to heal varicose veins.

High-Fiber Diet

Eating a daily diet that is high in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and beans helps to prevent constipation and straining which can make varicose veins worse. Consuming fruit juices that contain cherries, blackberries and blueberries has been found healing for varicose veins sufferers. Consuming foods high in vitamin C , including a variety of citrus fruits, strawberries and bell peppers, has been found to be beneficial in strengthening the walls of varicose veins and reducing the inflammation present.

Herbal Therapies

Including herbal supplements in the daily diet is another natural way to help heal varicose veins. A variety of herbs can help to improve the blood circulation at the same time they strengthen the walls of the body’s network of veins. These include Horse Chestnut, Hawthorne, Bilberries, Gotu Kola, and Gingko, most of which can be prepared and enjoyed daily as a hot tea.

Topical Applications

There are several topical ointments which can be applied to the area of the legs affected by varicose veins to help in their healing. Witch hazel is one of the most popular and can be applied up to three times daily. Another effective natural remedy is applying a cloth soaked in apple cider vinegar atop the varicose veins for at least half an hour daily.

Massage and Compression Stockings

A daily routine of self-massage surrounding the area where the varicose veins are most apparent can help tremendously in improving leg circulation and healing varicose veins. Check with your local medical supply house or drugstore to find a product called compression stockings. These are knee-high length socks worn for a certain amount of time daily to help heal the varicose veins by providing support and increased circulation of the blood flow throughout the legs.

Exercise

High impact and intense physical activities that increase pressure on the legs should be avoided in favor of a gentle daily exercise routine that includes walking and swimming, both great exercises that can have a healing effect on varicose veins.

A multi-prong effort to heal varicose veins seems to work best when diet, exercise and herbal supplements are combined with such simple lifestyle changes as keeping the legs elevated when sitting to reduce pressure on the veins as they are healing.