Do you frequently have muscle soreness, especially in your lower legs? Do you also notice a distinct dark blue or purple discoloration there? If so, you may have varicose veins, a condition that affects many people and is characterized by swollen, bulging veins most often found in the legs and feet.
Numerous factors, such as spending a lot of time sitting in a chair, standing for a long time on a daily basis, weight issues, pregnancy, or even having digestive issues like constipation or bloating, might contribute to this ailment.
While some varicose vein cases are mild and do not require primary treatment, other engorged, damaged veins indicate underlying blood circulation problems and frequent clotting. These are chronic, resulting in ongoing leg pain and discomfort.
Varicose veins can be treated surgically and non-surgically in a variety of ways. The most popular treatment is Ayurvedic remedies and medicines for varicose veins because of their efficiency and minimal side effects.
Ayurveda’s Take on Varicose Veins
According to Ayurveda, each individual is composed of a unique proportion of the three doshas which are the bodily energies and constitute their Prakriti (natural constitution). These include Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha can influence particular body functions, and these imbalances can result in illness.
Varicosis occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha in the body. Therefore, Ayurvedic treatment for varicose veins focuses on pacifying Vata dosha through a warm and nourishing diet, and with circulation-boosting herbs.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
The most noticeable symptom of varicose veins is a twisted, blue, or purple vein right beneath the skin's surface. Other symptoms include
- Bulged veins: Blue or purple, twisted, bulging, and rope-like veins. They appear on your legs, ankles, and feet. They may spread gradually and form clusters.
- Heavy legs: Especially after exercise, your legs' muscles may feel heavy, exhausted, or sluggish.
- Itching: The skin around varicose veins may itch.
- Leg pain: Especially behind the knees, your legs may feel uncomfortable, achy, or sore, accompanied by muscle cramps.
- Swelling: Legs, ankles, and feet can swell and throb.
- Ulcers and skin discolorations: Varicose veins can result in brown skin discolorations if not addressed. Venous ulcers (sores) on your skin can result from severe varicose veins.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Varicose Veins
Ayurveda harnesses the power of natural herbs to improve blood circulation and strengthen vein walls, helping to manage varicose veins effectively. These herbal remedies reduce swelling, relieve pain, and support overall vascular health.
1. Eranda (Castor Oil)
Castor oil, known as Eranda in Ayurveda, helps reduce inflammation and dissolve blood clots, making it effective for managing varicose veins. It also helps lighten dark patches caused by varicose veins.
How to Use: Gently massage castor oil in a circular motion on the affected area for a few minutes and allow it to penetrate the skin for better results.
2. Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)
Manjistha is a potent blood purifier with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce leg swelling and alleviate symptoms of varicose veins. It balances all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—improves circulation, and repairs damaged veins without any side effects. Manjistha also helps clear skin imperfections caused by varicose veins.
How to Use: Manjistha can be consumed as a herbal decoction (1-2 teaspoons daily) or applied topically as a paste for relief from swelling and discoloration.
3. Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus)
Sariva roots are known for their blood-purifying properties that help eliminate impurities and regulate blood flow, essential for managing varicose veins. They also improve skin tone and reduce pain when applied to the affected area.
How to Use: Sariva root extract can be applied as a paste directly to the affected area or taken internally as a decoction (10-20 ml daily) to improve circulation.
4. Chirabilva (Holoptelea integrifolia)
Chirabilva, derived from the Indian Elm tree, is a natural blood purifier used to treat varicose veins and other dosha imbalances. It helps dissolve blood clots, reduce discoloration, and restore vein health when applied topically or consumed.
How to Use: Prepare a paste by blending Chirabilva bark extract and leaves, then apply it to the affected area. Alternatively, consume a bark decoction (20-30 ml daily) to promote blood circulation.
5. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)
Gotu Kola, also known as Asiatic pennywort, is rich in iron and essential minerals that enhance circulation, support red blood cell production, and maintain normal blood pressure. Its high triterpenoid antioxidant content aids in repairing damaged veins and improving skin elasticity by boosting collagen and elastin production.
How to Use: Consume Gotu Kola juice (10-20 ml) or standardized extract (50-100 mg twice daily) with any herbal beverage to improve circulation and vein strength.
Ayurvedic Medicine for Varicose Veins
Ayurvedic medicine offers holistic solutions for varicose veins by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and strengthening blood vessels. Traditional formulations and herbal medicines help alleviate discomfort and promote vein health naturally.
1. Sahacharadi Oil- Back Pain Relief Oil
Sahacharadi Thailam is an excellent remedy for immediate and long-lasting relief from varicose veins, sciatica, and muscle stiffness. Regular use helps manage early symptoms like swelling and pain while preventing future flare-ups.
Key Ingredients:
- Sahachara (Lesser Kurinji): Relieves pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.
- Dashamoola (Ten Roots): Balances aggravated Vata dosha and supports nervous system health.
- Manjistha (Indian Madder): Reduces swelling and helps manage early symptoms of varicose veins.
- Sesame Oil: Nourishes tissues, improves circulation, and suits all dosha types.
- Milk: Strengthens muscles, ligaments, and bones, enhancing overall vein health.
Price: ₹470 ( 450 ml)
2. Pinda Thailam- Relieves Burning Sensation & Pain in Gout
Varicose veins can cause excruciating pain, making daily life challenging. Pinda Thailam helps soothe pain, reduce burning sensations, and manage gout, joint pain, and advanced varicose vein symptoms.
Key Ingredients:
- Manjistha (Indian Madder): Reduces pain and burning sensations in gout and varicose veins.
- Anantamul (Indian Sarsaparilla): Soothes joint pain and stiffness while promoting blood circulation to the legs.
- Sarja (White Dammar): Provides a cooling effect that alleviates burning sensations in affected veins.
- Natural Beeswax: Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, enhancing the healing process.
Price: ₹375 ( 450 ml)
Incorporating these Ayurvedic medicines into your routine can naturally support vein health and provide lasting relief from varicose veins. Trusted by many Ayurvedic doctors, these products provide long-lasting effects.
Preventing Varicose Veins
Varicose veins may not be something you can prevent completely. However, by leading an active, healthy lifestyle, you can minimize your risk of getting them. Here are some tips suggested by Ayurvedic experts to prevent and cure varicose veins:
- Avoid standing for extended periods. Take frequent breaks to stretch and move around, especially if your profession demands you to be on your feet.
- Elevate your legs above your waist to increase blood flow to your heart.
- Keep your weight in check. Shedding extra pounds lowers the pressure inside your blood vessels.
- Stop smoking. Smoking destroys blood arteries, reduces blood flow, and leads to a host of health issues.
- Keep moving. Avoid inactivity for extended periods to enhance circulation.
- Try compression socks. Supportive clothing, such as support socks and pantyhose, can assist blood flow and compress your veins, slowing the progression of varicose veins.
- Make sure your waistband isn't too tight to restrict blood flow. Wear clothing that fits appropriately.
Note: Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner if you have existing medical conditions before adding any medicines to your routine.
Conclusion
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that often appear on the legs and feet, causing discomfort, pain, and skin discoloration. Factors like prolonged sitting, standing, obesity, and poor circulation contribute to this condition. Ayurveda offers natural, effective remedies using herbs and traditional medicines to strengthen veins, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation without side effects.
Kerala Ayurveda Limited has been at the forefront of authentic Ayurvedic healing, with over 80 years of heritage. Products like Sahacharadi Oil, Pinda Thailam, etc., offer the best results for varicose veins. Try them today!
FAQs
1. Can dehydration worsen varicose veins?
Yes, dehydration thickens the blood, making circulation sluggish and increasing pressure on veins. Drinking warm herbal teas or water infused with Triphala can help maintain healthy blood flow.
2. Does stress contribute to varicose veins?
Chronic stress aggravates Vata dosha, which can weaken vein walls and disrupt circulation. Ayurvedic practices like Abhyanga (self-massage) and Ashwagandha supplementation can help manage stress and support vein health.
3. Are there Ayurvedic remedies for nighttime leg cramps caused by varicose veins?
Yes, massaging with Sahacharadi Thailam before bed and consuming Pravala Pishti (Ayurvedic coral calcium) can help relax muscles and reduce cramping.
4. Can sitting cross-legged worsen varicose veins?
Yes, sitting cross-legged for long periods can restrict blood flow. Ayurveda recommends periodically stretching and practicing Padmasana (Lotus Pose) mindfully to improve circulation.
5. Do seasonal changes affect varicose veins?
Yes, cold weather can constrict blood vessels, while excessive heat may worsen swelling. Ayurveda suggests warm oil massages in winter and cooling herbs like Sariva and Manjistha in summer for balanced circulation.
