Varicose Veins (varicosities) Helpful Natural Supplements and Treatments OVERVIEW Varicose veins are enlarged veins caused by poorly functioning valves within the vein, allowing for blood to pool or backflow. They usually have a dark, purplish-blue color, bulge, are often twisted, and usually appear on the lower leg and ankle. Hemorrhoids are another form of varicose veins, and spider veins are just small versions. Varicose veins can be caused by inherent weaknesses in the vein walls (family history), pregnancy, obesity, and standing for prolonged periods of time. Chronic constipation can lead to hemorrhoids. Women are more likely to develop varicosities than men. Varicose veins may cause the legs to ache (deep veins) or develop ulcers. Deep varicose veins can also develop blood clots, which can have serious consequences. SUPPLEMENTS FOR VARICOSE VEINS There are several natural supplements that can help with varicose veins. Consult with your healthcare provider to see which of the following supplements may be appropriate for you. Vitamins & Minerals No vitamins and minerals stand out as being beneficial for varicose veins, but taking a good multivitamin formula will help. Less Helpful: vitamin C. Other Supplements Again, not many supplements have good research showing benefit for varicose veins. Less Helpful: citrus bioflavonoids. Herbs Gotu Kola – This herb is native to Africa, Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Madagascar, southern U.S., South America, and the South Pacific. It is a member of the parsley (Umbelliferae) family. It has many active ingredients, including phytosterols, polyphenols, triterpene acids, and triterpene saponins. Gotu kola's healing properties may be due to stimulation of connective tissue synthesis. Less Helpful: bilberry, butcher's broom, grape seeds, horse chestnut. COMMENTS Various surgical procedures are available for treating varicosities. Other treatments include avoiding standing for long periods of time, elevating the legs, and regular exercise (low impact). Try stretching exercises or yoga. If overweight, lose weight. Do not smoke cigarettes. References Jellin, JM, editor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2005. Pillepich, JA. The Nutraceutical Reference Guide, 2005. For VARICOSE VEINS, consider these supplements: Age-Less Paks (multi VM with bilberry, grape seed extract, etc.). C-500 Complex (vitamin C, bioflavonoids, rutin). Vessel Max (troxerutin, butcher's broom, horse chestnut, gotu kola). The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. 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