-IBIS-1.7.6-
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cardiovascular system
Varicose veins
Integrative Therapies
Home Care
Varicose veins are swollen, elongated veins usually located in the legs. These may be associated with aches, fatigue, or a burning sensation, all of which are alleviated by elevating the legs.
Women may experience a worsening of the symptoms during their menstrual period. If the condition becomes more serious, leg ulcers may develop. Pregnancy or constipation can cause or the worsen varicose veins. Alcoholics also tend to suffer from this condition. The first step toward relief will be to treat the constipation, if present, or deal with the alcohol problem.
If you suffer from constipation, increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains such as brown rice and oatmeal. Drink 8 to 10 cups of water a day. If you need more information, refer to the article on constipation.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED FOR VARICOSE VEINS AND CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:
1. Vitamin C 1,000 milligrams 3 to 4 times per day. People with kidney stones should not take more than 2,000 Units per day in divided doses.
2. Bioflavonoids 1,000 milligrams once a day.
3. Vitamin E 400 to 800 Units per day.
4. Vitamin A 25,000 Units twice a day.
5. Bromelain 500 milligrams 3 times a day, between meals.
6. Chlorophyll 2 capsules with each meal.
7. Bilberry extract- 2 capsules twice a day.
HERBS USED FOR VARICOSE VEINS:
1. Witch Hazel Use as a tea or a tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract. Make a tea by using 1 teaspoon of herb per cup of boiling water. Simmer 5 minutes and steep. Drink 1 cup 3 to 4 times a day for several months. As a tincture, use 30 drops 3 times per day.
2. Horse Chestnut Use 1 capsule 3 times per day or 30 drops of the tincture 3 times per day.
3. Other herbs, namely Gotu Kola, Butcher's Broom, and Blueberries, have been shown to be very beneficial for varicose veins. Use the herbs in the same dose as those previously mentioned. Use 2 to 4 ounces of berries 3 times a day.
HOMEOPATHY
From the following homeopathic medicines, choose the one that best matches your symptoms.
Hamamelis 6c and Horse Chestnut 6c: Dissolve 2 pellets of each under your tongue, 3 times a day for 3 weeks out of the month; then skip a week.
Pulsatilla 6c: Especially use for women who are either pregnant women or are emotionally sensitive before the period. Dissolve 3 pellets under your tongue 3 times a day.
Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for individuals with varicose veins. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.
ADDITIONAL MEASURES INCLUDE:
1. Regular exercises such as walking, biking, and aerobics are very helpful. Standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time worsens varicose veins.
2. Elevate the foot of your bed 4 inches.
3. Massage your legs upward with warm olive oil and either Myrrh, Sage, or Witch Hazel tincture. Add 2 tablespoons of the herbal tincture to 6 ounces of the oil.
4. Alternate hot and cold leg baths. Put your legs in hot water for 3 minutes then in cold water for 30 seconds. Repeat a total of 3 times. Do it 1 time per day.
Clinic
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.