The 5 Best Home Remedies for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins can be painful and uncomfortable. They can leave your legs achy and heavy, among other symptoms. Left untreated, varicose veins can lead to complications like venous leg ulcers or other vein problems. There are non-invasive procedures that can be done in a vein clinic to treat varicose veins and stop the progression of the disease. You can also try natural treatments at home to help alleviate vein pain.

Let’s explore four common causes of that burning sensation in legs, what you can do to remedy it, and how our veins specialists can get you back to you.

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Do Home Remedies for Varicose Veins Work?

Natural varicose vein treatment involves lifestyle changes you can make right away—no appointment necessary! Some people like to incorporate and try natural remedies to relieve their symptoms and enhance their well-being. These lifestyle changes can also positively impact your overall health.

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If you are just now starting to experience varicose veins or circulation problems, be proactive about your treatment. Varicose vein natural treatment options can help relieve symptoms

5 Best Natural Varicose Vein Treatment Tips

Today’s technological advancements in the treatment of vein disease are more effective and safe than ever before, like laser ablation and sclerotherapy. There are natural remedies that you can try in the comfort of your home to get some relief.

1. Herbal Extracts

herbal tincture to alleviate varicose veins symptoms

Various extracts and essential oils can boost the circulatory system and lower inflammation. Cypress oil is a great option to help improve blood flow. Tea tree oil and lavender oil can be used as an anti-inflammatory, and peppermint oil can be used to soothe muscle aches.  

2. Plant-Based Remedies

plant based cream to alleviate varicose veins symptoms

Plants like bilberry and horse chestnut can lower water retention in the body, and help with circulation and swelling. Extracts can be found in creams or lotions, teas, or capsule form.

3. Foods

Dietary Changes That Will Improve Your Vein Health

Add foods that are high in fiber and antioxidants to your diet. These can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, veggies, fresh fruit, legumes, and ancient grains are high in fiber. Berries, green veggies, citrus fruits all have antioxidants.

4. Exercises

Varicose Veins

Sitting or staying still for too long makes it difficult for blood to pump efficiently to your heart. Taking a walk, going for a swim, or a bike ride can all help blood circulation as is undoubtedly one of the best natural varicose vein treatment options.

 

Doing leg exercises like leg lifts, calf raises, bicycles, and side lunges also help by strengthening the legs. Not only does exercise help blood circulation and varicose veins—but it also has the added benefit of keeping you healthier overall.

5. Compression Socks

compression stockings

Try wearing compression socks, which apply pressure to the legs to prevent blood from pooling. Tight clothes restrict blood flow, so opt for loose clothing instead. It’s also easier for blood to circulate with feet flat as opposed to elevated in heels. Trade those heels for a pair of flats.

Should I Get a Procedure or Treat Varicose Veins Naturally?

Weighing the options between a procedure and naturally treating varicose veins is important. A natural varicose vein treatment can improve symptoms. However, it can not stop the progression of vein disease. Here are the pros and cons of both methods.

Professional Varicose Vein Treatment

Pros

  • Effective and safe 
  • Minimally invasive
  • Little or no downtime. Patients walk immediately, and most return to work the next day.
  • Covered by most health insurance, including Medicare
  • Positively transforms the overall leg, vein health, and lifestyle

Cons

  • Temporary discomfort, bruising or swelling of the skin
  • Complications of varicose vein treatments are rare

Natural Varicose Vein Treatment

Pros

  • Little to no risk 
  • Less expensive than a procedure
  • Supports overall health 

Cons

  • Alleviates the symptoms but doesn’t stop the progression  of vein disease

The Stages of Vein Disease

What stage your vein disease is in is another factor in determining the right treatment. It is much easier to alleviate symptoms naturally during the early stages of vein disease. Being aware of the signs and symptoms is important to know the best course of action. 

 

In the early stages of vein disease, it can be hard to notice symptoms. But nobody knows your body better than you. Gradually you’ll notice changes as they continue to develop on your legs, including:

  • Spider veinsThe veins appear web-like and scattered. They will be purple or red in color and flat to the touch as opposed to varicose veins. 
  • Varicose veins: These veins bulge out of the skin and are painful. Legs will also be itchy, tingly, and heavy.  

The later stages of vein disease are harder to miss. Your quality of life can be impacted by these additional conditions:

  • Skin changes: Skin is swollen, red or pale skin, and sores form.
  • Venous leg ulcers: Open wounds develop that cause additional pain and the possibility of infection. These ulcers can become both chronic and debilitating. 

Speak with a Vein Specialist

Vein disease can impact your life, but it doesn’t have to. Take back control of your vein health. At the Gilvydis Vein Clinic, we are here to help you decide the best treatment option for you. We will answer all your questions and concerns and thoroughly explain your vein disease and treatment plan.

 

Whether you’re ready to come to see us or want to try a natural remedy, our commitment is your health. Schedule a free vein screening today to see the stage of your varicose veins.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Gilvydis

Dr. Rimas Gilvydis, M.D, is the co-founder of Northern Illinois Vein Clinic (NIVC) in Rockford, Illinois, and the founder of Gilvydis Vein Clinic (GVC) in Naperville, Sycamore, and Geneva, Illinois. A board-certified interventionalist and diplomate of the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine, Dr. Gilvydis has been treating varicose veins with minimally invasive techniques since they were first introduced.

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Dr. Rimas Gilvydis along side other vein specialists

Get back to yourself.

We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois  with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.