Home Remedies For Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are a condition that cause your veins to appear raised, swollen, or bulging, with a blue or purplish color to them. They are most common in the lower leg area but can be found anywhere on the body. Varicose veins occur when the veins become enlarged and overfilled with blood. In some cases they are painful; in others, they are just unsightly. If you have varicose veins that you want gone, you may be looking at varicose vein treatment services. However, before you try costly treatments with a doctor, you may wish to try home remedies. Here are a few home remedies that may help to lessen the appearance of a varicose vein or eliminate it altogether.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is believed to have astringent properties that are beneficial for those with varicose veins. The astringent property can help to shrink swollen veins, which helps to reduce the amount of blood in them. In turn, this helps to reduce the bulging appearance they have. This treatment will not get rid of varicose veins over time, but when used nightly, it can help to slowly reduce their appearance. Apple cider vinegar can be used two different ways. You can dilute two tablespoons in water and drink it, or dip a cloth in a mixture of equal parts warm water and apple cider vinegar and place it over the swollen veins until the cloth dries out. Do both for best results.
Massage
Another way that you can help to get rid of your varicose veins at home is through massage. Massage helps to increase blood circulation and can help to even out twisted veins that result in varicose veins. When massaging to get rid of varicose veins, either you or your partner should rub in long, even, upward strokes. However, be aware that massage may be painful at first. Go slowly and gently to avoid pain. To make the process easier, you can apply olive oil or coconut oil for lubrication. Massaging the area one or two times a day can help to reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper has been shown to increase blood flow in the body and reduce symptoms of medical conditions caused by poor blood flow. When it comes to varicose veins, cayenne pepper can help to increase the blood flow throughout the entire body, helping to reduce the appearance of varicose veins already present and prevent new ones from forming. It is recommended that you add a teaspoon of crushed cayenne pepper to a cup of hot water. If desired, you can mix in lemon or honey to improve the taste. Drink this tincture three times per day for up to two weeks or until the veins' appearance improves. From there, drink the mixture one to two times a day to help prevent varicose veins from forming.
No matter how many home treatments you try, some varicose veins are simply stubborn. If you have a varicose vein that is not improving with home treatment, consult with your doctor to find out what medical options you may have for varicose vein services.