The Most Effective Essential Oils for Varicose Vein

Among the extensive list of natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms and discomfort in many conditions, we can find the effectiveness of essential oils for varicose vein.

Thanks to the properties contain in some essential oils which improve poor circulation; relieve pain, inflammation, and also prevent the appearance of new varicose veins, we can definitely add this natural relief alternative to our kit and give it a try, without having to worry about side effects.

Although they can help ease discomfort, swelling and pain naturally, unfortunately essential oils are not the ultimate cure for the underlying cause of varicose veins, which, in most cases, comes from chronic venous insufficiency.

But, what are varicose vein?

According to National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), Varicose veins are: “a common condition caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves. Varicose veins may form whenever blood pressure increases inside your veins. This can happen because of pregnancy, constipation, a tumor, or overweight and obesity”.

Varicose veins mainly refer to those that appear in the legs, although sometimes varicose veins develop in other parts of the body. Hemorrhoids are a type of varicose vein that occurs in the rectum. On the other hand, varicoceles form in the testicles and may be linked to infertility in men.

Varicose veins can also develop in the esophagus, stomach, or liver.

Different to varicose vein, but also vein problems that affect smaller blood vessels are telangiectasia and spider veins.

Varicose veins occur due to the malfunction of one-way valves located within the veins. These valves constantly supply blood to the heart, but when they are damaged or weakened, the blood does not flow properly and accumulates in the veins, and sometimes even flows back causing venous reflux, which deforms them distorting their size.

What are the causes that influence varicose veins development?

The main reasons to have increased risk for varicose veins are:

Older people.
Sit or stand for long periods.
Inactive lifestyle, have overweight or obesity.
Have a family history of varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis (a type of venous thromboembolism).
Pregnancy and childbirth, especially multiple births.

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How are the symptoms of varicose veins?

According to NHLBI, signs and symptoms of varicose veins include:

Bulging, bluish veins.
Swelling.
Aching pain.
Feeling of heaviness in the legs and feet.
Itching.
Changes in skin color.
Nighttime leg cramps.

Occasionally, varicose veins can hinder daily activities and limit movement.

Symptomatic discomfort may worsen during long periods of sitting or standing. On the other hand, these can be alleviated by lying down and putting the feet up.

What essential oils are effective for relief and prevention of varicose veins?

Yarrow essential oil

Yarrow oil alleviates inflammatory symptoms of varicose vein, hemorrhoids (other type of varicose vein), rectal fissures, etc. Also, it tones varicose vein and helps circulatory disorders by improving venous circulation.

Juniper berry essential oil

The essential oil of juniper, works as vasodilator and anti-inflammatory agent. It relieves discomfort of varicose veins and enhances blood circulation. Also, juniper oil allows blood to flow properly to control bruises formation.

Cypress essential oil

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, cypress essential oil can be used to treat varicose veins effectively. It improves circulation, and reduces inflammation of the veins.

Helichrysum essential oil

The essential oil of helichrysum, is known to enhance circulation and reducing inflammation. It has the potential to minimize the appearance of varicose and spider veins.

Best Carrier Oil for Varicose Vein Relief

Horse Chestnut seed oil

Based on meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials and observational studies, horse chestnut oil appears to be an effective and safe treatment for chronic venous insufficiency.

Horse chestnut seed oil may improve venous tone by enhancing blood flow in the legs. In addition, it may help decrease leg swelling and pain associated with varicose veins.

Due to its properties, this is an excellent carrier for diluting essential oils, which will work together to help relieve varicose veins.

However, further trials and carefully conducted large-scale observational studies are required to evaluate the long-term effectiveness and safety of horse chestnut oil in routine settings.

How to Use at Home Essential Oils for Varicose Veins

The simplest way to apply essential oils to relieve and prevent varicose veins in the comfort of home is choosing one or more of the alternatives mentioned in this post, then dilute 30 drops of essential oil in 10 ml (0.34 fluid oz) of carrier oil, mix well and massage gently to affected area as needed for relief.

We recommend performing a patch test before applying, to avoid adverse reactions such as allergy, irritation, sensitivity, or other unwanted effects.