Holistic Treatment for Varicose Veins

Holistic treatments address the care of the whole person; they integrate complementary therapies with conventional medicine to promote optimal health. Holistic treatment is available for those with varicose veins.

Definition

• Varicose veins are swollen veins that bulge beneath the skin. Valves in the veins keep blood from backing up, but when these valves become damaged, blood pools in the veins and causes bulging.

Homeopathic Remedy

• Dr. Larry Altshuler recommends the homeopathic remedy known as Pulsatilla, which offers long-term relief from symptoms such as leg swelling, skin inflammation and aching in the calves (Reference 1).

Herbal Supplements

• Dr. Altshuler recommends several herbal extracts that are effective in enhancing the structure, tone and function of the veins. These include grapeseed, pine bark, horse chestnut, gotu kola, bilberry with flavonoids and bromelain (Reference 1).

Diet and Exercise

• The primary predisposing factor for varicose veins is obesity; weight management, which includes a high-fiber diet, is necessary. Also recommended are aerobic exercises such as biking and walking, which contract leg muscles, squeeze the veins and push blood up the legs.

Surgery

• Surgical options are available if the veins are painfully swollen. The most common surgery uses a high-energy laser; another type of surgery is known as vein-stripping.