Do you frequently complain of muscle pain, especially in the extremities of your lower legs, and have noticed that the area has turned a dark blue or purple color? If so, you are certainly suffering from a very common health abnormality, medically known as varicose veins. It is characterized by distended and swollen veins that appear mainly in the legs and feet. The condition can occur due to various reasons, such as prolonged standing at work, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, pregnancy, and even intestinal disorders such as constipation and bloating. While some varicose veins are mild and do not require advanced treatment, certain instances of swollen and damaged veins indicate underlying problems with blood circulation and the prevalence of blood clots, which can lead to chronic, persistent leg pain and discomfort. Moreover, unsightly black lines that are prominent on the skin of the lower legs are also embarrassing and considered a cosmetic concern.
Also read: Varicose Veins: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
Ayurveda describes the disease of varicose veins as “Siraja Granthi”, where “Siraja” refers to the veins and tubular structures in the bloodstream and “Granthi” means cyst-like inflammation. It is believed to be caused by aggravation of Pitta dosha surrounding the blood vessels and blockage of Kapha and Vata doshas at the bulging areas, leading to Tridosha imbalance and abnormal blood clots. Varicose veins are often accompanied by many painful symptoms such as Sada (numbness), Ayasa (fatigue), Gratita Sila (distension of veins), Krishnalakta Sila (blue to purple discolouration of veins and skin), and Toda (constant pain in the legs). Still, do not fret. Ancient Ayurvedic manuscripts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, etc. list a number of powerful herbs with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and Pitta balancing properties that act as effective natural remedies to treat varicose veins. Here are some excellent Pitta-calming herbs that improve circulation, fade dark spots on the skin, repair damaged blood vessels in varicose veins, and prevent the recurrence of this painful condition.
Shop from our extensive collection of Ayurvedic oils and herbal powders that can help treat varicose veins and improve skin discoloration.
Amazing Natural Ayurvedic Remedies for Varicose Veins:
1. Sariva (Indian Sarsaparilla)
Saliva root is rich in plant compounds that have Varnya (improving complexion) and Dahaprashamana (relieving burns) properties. When powdered, the root extract is applied to areas of skin that are itchy, dry, dark and otherwise bothersome due to varicose veins, helping to soothe inflammation and even skin tone. A tonic made from crushed Saliva root is also consumed as it has excellent blood purifying properties that flush out ama toxins and regulate blood circulation.
2. Elanda (castor bean)
Castor oil, a tincture extracted from eranda beans, is rich in bioactive lysine compounds that are known to have excellent properties in reducing inflammation and mitigating blood clots in the legs with varicose veins. Warming castor oil and gently rubbing it in a circular motion on the skin areas affected by varicose veins is a proven herbal remedy that increases blood circulation in the body and clears dark spots.
3. Manjistha (Indian Madar)
Manjistha has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce leg swelling and relieve pain caused by varicose veins. This herb cleanses the blood of impurities and improves circulation in damaged veins and blood vessels, as well as effectively balances aggravated Pitta dosha. A powdered preparation made from the dried stem and root of Manjistha is a time-tested treatment for chronic varicose veins, and a paste of Manjistha powder mixed with Aloe Vera gel can be applied to discoloured skin to remove blemishes and scars.
4. Gotu kola (Asian pennywort)
Gotu kola is rich in iron, a trace mineral essential for the synthesis and transport of healthy red blood cells in the body, and effectively removes vascular plaque and thickening of blood vessels, promoting smooth circulation and maintaining normal blood pressure. Drinking a herbal preparation of gotu kola leaf juice works wonders in promoting collagen and elasticity production, as it is rich in triterpenoid antioxidants that eliminate vascular damage and strengthen the inner structure of veins.
Also read: Gotu Kola: 5 Amazing Health Benefits of This Wonder Herb
5. Chirabirba (Indian elm)
Chirura Birva is packed with powerful pitta balancing properties in addition to its kapha and vata regulating properties, promoting an optimal balance of the tridoshas in the body. Touted as a natural blood purifier, this versatile herb is taken as a decoction of the bark to clear blood clots in the legs. A paste made from the bark extract can also be applied to areas of skin with varicose veins to minimize discoloration.
Additional Herbs to Relieve Blood Clots
Triphala
A traditional Ayurvedic herbal formulation consisting of three fruits Amla (Indian gooseberry), Haritaki (Chebulic myrobalan) and Bibhitaki (Bahera) whose powerful antioxidant properties help improve blood circulation. It reduces inflammation in varicose veins and reduces the risk of further damage to the veins. Taking triphala powder or tablets may also aid in overall vascular health and relieve symptoms associated with varicose veins.
Guggul (Indian Bedellium)
Guggul, also known as Indian bedellium, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. Guggul contains compounds that improve blood circulation and reduce swelling and pain associated with varicose veins. Guggul also helps detoxify the blood and promote healing of damaged blood vessels.
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)
Brahmi, an Indian herb, is well known for its cognitive enhancing properties. Brahmi contains compounds that strengthen veins and capillaries, increasing their elasticity and reducing the risk of blood pooling and clot formation. Additionally, Brahmi has mild analgesic properties that help reduce the discomfort associated with varicose veins. Taking Brahmi as a supplement or applying Brahmi oil topically on a regular basis can provide relief from varicose veins.
References:
Varicose vein
- Meghal R. Antani Jeffrey B. Dattilo.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470194/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8995160/
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The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned in the blog.
