Temporary At-Home Treatments For Varicose Veins
Are swollen veins getting you down? Often, varicose veins aren’t life threatening, but they are certainly uncomfortable and unattractive. Luckily, there are at-home solutions that will keep pain and swelling at a minimum. Keep in mind these treatments are only temporary and if discomfort continues, you should visit a medical professional. Here are some household tools for promoting blood circulation, thus reducing the effects of varicose veins:
Apple cider vinegar
There’s not much apple cider vinegar can’t fix. You can either apply this varicose vein remedy topically or ingest it. Both methods should help decrease swelling. Results vary and are usually visible within a couple of months.
- External: soak a cloth in apple cider vinegar and wrap it around the problem area. Leave the makeshift bandage on for half an hour, and repeat daily.
- Internal: mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink twice per day.
Olive & grapeseed oils
Natural properties found in certain oils can stabilize blood flow. Both olive oil and grapeseed oil contain polyphenols, which help rebuild the capillary walls. To reduce pain and swelling in varicose veins, massage either oil onto the affected area. Take several minutes to do this a few times a day.
Cayenne pepper
Foods rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids encourage healthy blood flow, and cayenne pepper is no exception. Concoct a cayenne tea about three times per day by adding a teaspoon of the pepper powder into hot water. Drink this for a month or two, and you’re likely to notice less pain and swelling.
Garlic
This magic food wards off more than zombies. An anti-inflammatory and detoxifier, garlic stimulates blood flow and diminishes swollen veins. Similar to apple cider vinegar, you can apply a garlic paste topically or take an internal approach by adding it to your daily diet. Either way, you can expect to see a reduction in swelling and discomfort.
Marigold petals
They’re more than a pretty sight. Marigold petals hold high volumes of vitamin C and antioxidants, both of which defend against varicose veins. While you can use marigold petals both internally and externally, most consider external application most effective. For best results, boil petals to create a paste, dip a cloth into the mixture and bandage the affected area.
At-home treatments not working?
Not all home remedies work for everyone. Keep in mind these solutions provide temporary relief and won’t fully eliminate varicose veins. To learn how you can adequately remove and avoid varicose veins, visit a medical professional. Contact West Florida Vein Center at 727-712-3233 today to schedule a consultation.