Conker Varicose Veins
For those of us who suffer varicose veins, it can be an unsightly
and uncomfortable
problem. Liz Chandler from Natures Corner, looks at possible lifestyle changes
and a variety of natural remedies that may relieve the symptoms.
Tired heavy legs? Aching calves? Leg cramps? Swollen ankles? Only one fifth
of the population have healthy veins. All of these are symptoms associated
with chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins and have a tendency
to be more acute during the summer months.
Disturbances in the venous circulation occur mainly in the lower extremities
due to the greater pressure exerted on those veins. Varicose veins and haemorrhoids
develop when normal circulation becomes impaired and blood gathers in veins,
thus causing the vein walls to stretch and weaken until they eventually push
outwards, creating a swelling (varicose). Fluid is then forced into the surrounding
tissue giving rise to oedema. This can impede the circulation further and
if this process is prolonged varicose eczema results.
This area of devitalised tissue can become prone to damage, and if trauma
does occur, the healing process is protracted giving rise to varicose ulcers.
Tiny thread veins can also become visible on the legs, face and other parts
of the body.
Contributory factors include:- obesity….constipation ….pregnancy….nutrient
deficiencies
a diet high in saturated fat and sugar and low in fibre...lack of exercise….smoking
a commonly inherited tendency
Conkers from the horse chestnut tree has been used for many years to reduce
the swelling caused by varicose veins. The horse chestnut tree came to Britain
from the Mediterranean during Elizabethan times. Its seeds or conkers, as
they are more commonly called, contain many constituents, including aescin,
flavonoids and tannins. These constituents reduce oedema, capillary permeability
and inflammation, and exert venotonic effects by helping the contraction
of the elastic fibres in the vein wall. If possible, the following lifestyle
changes would be helpful:- try to put your feet up regularly
try gentle, regular exercise….if you smoke, try to cut down or give
up altogether.
Horse chestnut is available in tincture, tablet or capsule form and the effect
may be enhanced by applying to the skin in the form of a gel. This external
application is suitable during pregnancy. Long term use is advisable for
best results. Horse chestnut ointment may also be used for haemorrhoids.
Other potential applications include prophylactic use to decrease the incidence
of deep vein thrombosis following surgery (DVT), long haul airline travel
and tissue injury.
Although effective in isolation, horse chestnut may be used alongside other
vascular protective agents such as grapeseed, pygnogenol, bromelain and anti-oxidants.
For the treatment of haemorrhoids, bowel essence and Frangula complex are
also helpful.
For tissue and water balance, good blood circulation and healthy looking
legs and skin, ‘conkers’ are more than just a childhood game.
Due to its coumarin content, horse chestnut may interfere with anticoagulant
therapy.
Diabetics should never self medicate for any conditions of the leg or foot.
For more information on these nutrients and suggested daily doses and dietary
changes, call into Natures Corner or email info@naturescorner.co.uk