Supplements For Varicose Veins

Varicose Veins are bulging veins that usually occurr in the legs. They can cause aching and heavy legs, ankle swelling and a brown/blue discolouration around the affected veins. The condition is usually worsened by extended periods of standing. The full causes of this condition are yet to be fully understood. However, it is known that the vascular wall is weak and the veinous valves may also be functioning improperly. This likely leads to blood pooling and streching out the vein. Just like any valve, the valves of the veins keep the blood flowing in one direction. After all, the circulatory system is supposed to be a one-way street.  

There are many nutritional and herbal supplements that may be taken to assist with the management of this condition. Some are backed by traditional usage, while others have support from modern science. Some of the most helpful are their bioflavonoids. These are Vitamin C-like nutrients that are found in high concentrations in plants alongside Vitamin C, like a companion nutrient. Taken together, they offer a natural therapeutic synergism.

The most important bioflavonoids to take for varicose veins are quercetin, rutin and hesperidin. Quercetin tends to absorb when taken with  bromelains, which is the protein-deigestive enzyme found in the core of the pineapple. The bioflavonoids support the regeneration of two separate layers of the vein wall, including elastin and the loose fibrous connective tissue. These areas are important for maintaining elasticity of the vein and to provide structural support. This may slow the ballooning out of the veins.

There are also many herbal medicines that may be used for the management of varicose veins. These are grape seed extract, horsechestnut, butchers broom and even an anthocyanin-rich berry typically used to treat vision problems called bilberry. Of course, a healthy diet containing plenty of high-quality protein and other nutrients, like zinc and sulphur, is important.