Some massage therapists use essential oil to enhance the benefits of massage therapy. Incense, chamomile, sage, geranium, lemon, lavender and cypress oils help reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.
Massage therapy cannot cure varicose veins, but can improve blood circulation in the leg muscles and reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with this condition.
Physical activity stimulates the movement of blood through the veins, improving overall muscle tone and normalizing blood circulation. It is recommended that 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise be performed weekly.
Exercises
Walking and cycling provide leg movements that support healthy veins. In addition, it is better to wear low-heeled shoes that fit snugly on the foot and ankle, which increases muscle tone in the calf muscles and improves blood circulation. If you have a long flight, get up every couple of hours and take a walk in the aisle. Follow the same rules at work.
Vitamins
Some vitamins support cardiovascular health, which can help reduce the risk of varicose veins or reduce symptoms. Studies have linked low levels of vitamin K with circulatory disorders and calcification of veins caused by age and contributing to varicose veins.
Vitamin C plays an important role in the production of collagen and elastin – proteins that affect the elasticity of veins. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that prevents damage to blood cells by free radicals. Vitamins B-3, B-12 and folic acid contribute to healthy blood circulation. Make sure you get enough of these vitamins from food or herbal supplements.
Horse chestnut
Instead of taking medicine for a cosmetic problem, look for horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum). Horse chestnut seeds and leaves are a natural remedy for circulatory problems, including varicose veins.
Studies have shown that this herb promotes healthy blood circulation and reduces systemic redness and swelling. Scientists believe that horse chestnut can “seal” leaking or inflamed capillaries, improve the elasticity of the walls of the veins and contribute to normal blood density.
Nutrition
Constipation and tension during bowel movements create increased pressure on the veins and blood vessels throughout the body, and not just in the rectum. A diet high in fiber can prevent constipation and prevent the deterioration or manifestation of varicose veins, including hemorrhoids – bulging veins in the anus.
Drink plenty of water to maintain hydration levels and prevent constipation, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins. Eat foods rich in flavonoids, also called bioflavonoids (berries, citrus fruits, Brussels sprouts, sweet peppers, cayenne peppers and green tea). They bring many benefits to the body, including improving blood circulation, lowering blood pressure, and relaxing blood vessels.
Some experts recommend taking fish oil, but you can get omega-3 fatty acids from plant sources (algae oil or flaxseed oil). Omega-3s improve the elasticity of blood vessels.
Compression stockings
There are three types of compression underwear. Tights offer the lowest level of support. Stockings provide a higher level of compression. The most “strong” compression stockings are available by prescription and require special fitting.
Compression underwear supports healthy circulation. Usually it is worn all day, taking off before bedtime. You can’t sleep in them, as this can lead to a decrease and a decrease in blood circulation in the legs due to the fact that you are not moving.
Leg raising
Experts recommend raising legs 15-30 centimeters above the level of the heart to reduce the symptoms of varicose veins. This is not only pleasant, but also reduces the force of gravity, which constantly presses on the muscles, veins and blood circulation. When sitting or lying down, put a pair of pillows under your feet to lift them. You or your partner can also massage your legs while relaxing.
Pine bark extract
Pine bark extract is another herbal remedy that can help with cramps and edema associated with varicose veins. One study compared the effects of pine bark extract and compression underwear on varicose veins in women who gave birth. Six months later, women taking the extract had less varicose veins, fewer spider veins and fewer unpleasant symptoms, unlike those who used compression underwear – and these positive changes persisted for 12 months.
Hamamelis
The witch’s nut, as it is also called, is a liquid astringent made from the twigs, leaves and bark of the Hamamelis virginiana plant. Witch hazel contains tannins and essential oils that tone and soothe the skin and help narrow blood vessels.
The tool should be applied topically. To relieve discomfort, itching, and swelling, carefully moisten the washcloth in solution and place it on the area of concern. Or try adding 1/2 to 1 cup witch hazel to a warm bath and immerse your feet in it.
Herbal supplements
Some herbal supplements promote healthy circulation. In addition to witch hazel, horse chestnut and pine bark extract, Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) is another supplement that improves vein health.
The main thing to remember is that traditional medicine can be effective, but only at the very early stages of the disease, as well as when used as part of a comprehensive treatment. And do not forget that for the prevention of varicose veins it is necessary to regularly walk, swim and ride a bicycle.
Before treatment, always consult a doctor!
