It is estimated that around 20% of adults will be affected by varicose veins at some point in their lives. Varicose veins are commonly found in calves. They develop when the blood builds up and intensifies in the superficial veins of the legs. The veins then appear blue or purple as they become swollen. While there are several medical procedures and surgeries for varicose veins treatment, one may try a few home remedies for varicose veins as the first line of preventive measure and treatment.

5 Best Home Remedies for Varicose Veins

1. Exercise

Engaging in any sort of physical activity could be the first step towards varicose veins home treatment. Regular exercise encourages movement, which in turn enables better blood circulation, especially in the legs. This helps in the movement of the collected blood in the veins that go back to the heart. Furthermore, physical activities control high blood pressure issues, which eventually contribute to varicose veins.

2. Make Dietary Changes

Making dietary changes goes a long way to get rid of the pain and swelling from varicose veins. The meal plan should constitute of foods that assist in shrinking the varicose veins. Listed below are a few such favourable food categories that prove to be the best home remedies for varicose veins treatment:

1. Foods with flavonoids

Flavonoid-rich food enhances blood circulation, regulates blood flow, and doesn’t allow the blood to pool in the veins. The following food items contain flavonoids:

• Onions
• Cherries
• Garlic
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Cocoa
• Bell peppers
• Grapes
• Citrus fruits
• Strawberries
• Apples
• Blueberries

2. Foods with potassium

Lesser levels of potassium in the body can lead to water retention. This can cause a surge in blood volume in the body and create additional pressure on the vein valves. To increase potassium in your diet, look at consuming the following:

• leafy vegetables
• almonds
• salmon
• tuna
• pistachios
• chicken
• white beans
• dates
• oranges
• lentils
• potatoes
• yoghurt

3. Foods With Fibre

In a varicose veins home treatment, it is imperative to have a healthy bowel function. Dietary fibre keeps constipation away and helps in bowel movement. Otherwise, the strong physical pressure exerted to pass stool can cause internal abdominal pressure, which can damage the vein valves. Foods that are high in dietary fibre include:

• Wheat
• whole-grain foods
• oats
• beans
• nuts
• flaxseed
• figs
• peas
• avocados
• cauliflower
• tomatoes
• broccoli
• onions
• carrots
• artichokes
• sweet potatoes
• plums

3. Choose Light and Loose Clothing

For effective varicose veins home treatment, opt for loose-fitting clothes that do not restrict blood flow. Especially the clothes chosen for the lower body must not be too tight so that the blood supply to the lower body is not hindered. Furthermore, flat shoes are recommended over high heels to ease the symptoms of varicose veins in the legs.

4. Keep the Legs Elevated

Keeping the legs elevated is one of the most practised ways of natural treatment for varicose veins. It is suggested to keep the legs at heart level or even higher (if possible) to improve blood circulation. Doing so reduces the pressure from the leg veins, and gravity assists the blood flow back to the heart.

5. Gentle Massage

A few gentle massage sessions on the affected area can regulate blood movement through the veins. Never press the veins directly while massaging. Doing so may damage the already fragile tissues. For varicose veins home treatment by means of massage, one can choose a moisturizer or mild massage oils for better results.

Conclusion

Varicose veins are quite troublesome due to the uneasiness, swelling and pain it causes. If home remedies for varicose veins fail to provide the desired relief, medical treatment options should be considered. Varicose veins when ignored for a long, can increase in severity leading to unbearable pain and discomfort. Timely check-ups by doctors and health experts can improve varicose vein symptoms and even reduce its appearance.

 

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Dhanunjay Reddy B