Complications and Alternative Medicine

Are Herbal Supplements Good for Varicose Veins?

You may be tempted to try one of the many herbal supplements that claim to be able to prevent varicose veins or get rid of them. The active ingredient in most of the products is horse chestnut. Although physicians haven’t ruled out the possibility of this herb having an effect on veins, it’s not likely the products will do much to eliminate the veins or relieve the pain they might cause.

Is Alternative Medicine Safe?

There are concerns about the purity of supplements. It is also important to note that the manufacture of these products isn’t closely regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins

Sometimes, extremely painful ulcers may form on the skin near varicose veins, particularly near the ankles. Ulcers are the result of long-term “waterlogging” of these tissues as the result of increased pressure of blood within affected veins. Brownish pigmentation usually precedes the development of an ulcer. Ulcers require urgent medical attention.

Portions of this text are courtesy of the Mayo Clinic.