Veins are blood vessels that carry blood from the organs towards the heart. They contain one-way valves that prevent the blood from flowing in the backward direction. Some people may suffer from some weakness or damage of these valves, causing their blood to pool in the veins.
This congestion makes the veins swell and twist, making them visible up under the skin of their legs. Called as varicose veins, this is a very painful disorder.
Here are a few natural remedies to help deal with varicose veins:
1) Gotu Kola
According to Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is a herb that helps with wound healing. It also works to strengthen the connective tissues and reduces the swelling and pain of varicose veins.
The triterpene compounds contained in Gotu Kola are said to slow down the degenerative process that is responsible for varicose veins.
How to use this herb:
Add 1 teaspoon of dried leaves of Gotu Kola into 1 cup of hot water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain, mix in some honey and drink the tea thrice a day. However, persons with liver disease must not take this herb.
2) Marigold:
Marigold has been used in traditional medicine to control bleeding, heal damaged tissue and as an anti-inflammatory agent. This effect is believed to be the result of the flavonoid compounds present in the flowers.
How to use this herb:
Separate the petals of the marigold flowers, wash and crush them to make a paste. Apply the paste on the area affected by varicose veins, leave it on overnight and wash the next morning. Repeating this daily will help to reduce the discomfort of the varicose veins.
3) Cayenne Pepper:
Cayenne pepper or capsicum contains flavonoids that help to improve the circulation of blood through the congested and swollen veins.
How to use this herb:
Herbal practitioners recommend adding a teaspoon of cayenne powder into a cup of hot water and drinking the mixture thrice a day for a month or two.
4) Garlic:
Garlic is a strong anti-inflammatory agent and is also considered a detoxifier that improves blood circulation. Therefore, consuming garlic on a regular basis can help deal with varicose veins.
How to use this herb:
A good remedy is to mix about 6 garlic cloves with juice extracted from 3 oranges and 2 tablespoons olive oil, leave it for 12 hours and then use the solution to massage the area affected by varicose veins.
5) Sarvangasana:
Sarvangasana or the shoulder stand is one of the most effective yoga postures for varicose veins. In this asana, you must lie on the floor and then lift the legs and lower body up into the air, supporting your body weight on the upper arms, shoulders, neck and head.
When the legs are inverted in this position, due to the effect of gravity, the blood drains from the legs towards the heart, reducing the volume of the blood pooled in the veins.
However, it is important this asana be done after learning it correctly from a qualified yoga professional.
6) Mantain a low-salt diet:
High salt content in the blood can lead to retention of water which in turn causes increase in blood volume and results in swelling of the veins. Cut down on your dietary salt content and you may find some relief from the varicose veins.
7) Exercise and weight loss:
Some form of exercise that cause blood to circulate better in the legs is good for people with varicose veins. The easiest option is walking for about 20 minutes every day. Losing weight is also helpful because it reduces the pressure on the veins in your legs.
Besides these natural remedies, it is vital to follow some other lifestyle tips. Keeping the legs elevated when resting prevents the blood from pooling in the veins. Crossing legs can also aggravate varicose veins and must be avoided. Most importantly, avoid standing for long periods of time if you have varicose veins.
The article was originally published on www.thehealthsite.com
