DIY Home Remedies for Varicose Veins Relief

Varicose Veins, a very common condition in India is witnessing a shocking rise! Over 10 million people report this disease every year. About 30 per cent of adults suffer from varicose veins. So, in this blog, I bring you simple DIY Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Varicose Veins that works amazingly well. 

For many, varicose veins is a cosmetic concern. The dark purple cluttered veins can make anyone conscious. But that’s not the only trouble with varicose veins. Many patients also experience aching and pain in the legs. 

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins refer to swollen or enlarged veins caused by a blockage in blood circulation. We all have valves that keep the blood flowing in the right direction. These valves help stop the blood from flowing backwards. But sometimes these valves may get damaged or become weak. Thus, failing to restrict the stagnation and resulting in clotting. This condition is called varicose veins. 

Varicose veins can develop in any part of the body. But the most common sites are the legs and feet. This is because we spend long hours standing or walking which puts a lot of pressure on the legs. Over time our veins can become weak and turn into gnarled veins.

Why varicose veins are on a rise?

Recent surveys revealed that varicose veins are on a rise. But why?

Before explaining that, let’s understand the factors that can increase the risk of varicose veins. Here are some of the most common underlying factors that can impact your varicose veins:

Gender – Females are more likely to suffer from varicose veins.

Genetics – Varicose veins may run in families.

Obesity – Obesity puts more pressure on the veins 

Age – Older people are more likely to contract varicose veins.

Profession – Certain jobs involve long hours of standing that puts a lot of pressure on the veins. 

Lack of movement – It’s not only standing for long but also long hours of sitting that can make your veins work harder. 

Pregnancy – Pregnancy can increase blood pressure. Apart from that, an increase in weight and lack of movement also contributes to this. Further, the growing uterus also puts pressure on the veins.

So now, why varicose veins are on a rise?

The answer to this question lies in the underlying factors. An unprecedented rise in obese population and the changing ways of life are to blame. Today, most people are stuck in a job that restricts movement. 

The advent of technology has encapsulated the whole world into a screen. And most modern jobs are chained to computers. Be it a software engineer, designer, writer or marketer, every job demands a computer. Most people spend more than 10 hours glued to the screen. This restricted movement is resulting in a spike in the cases of varicose veins.

In other jobs like a teacher or retail staff which demands long hours of standing. This increases the pressure on your legs and results in varicose veins in due time. Thus, increasing obesity and the changing scenario of the modern lifestyle are responsible for this rise in varicose veins.

DIY Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a common sight these days. So, if you start spotting the gnarled veins anywhere in your body, then try these simple home remedies right away!

Sweat it out!

The best way to treat Varicose veins is through regular exercise. Exercise is the best way to encourage blood circulation in your body.  Physical workout also helps lower a person’s blood pressure, which is also a contributing factor.

You can try low-impact exercises to increase the blood circulation in your legs. The best ones are swimming, walking, cycling and yoga. This simple low intense exercise gets your heart pumping!

Also Read: Can exercise alter your food choices?

Make some Dietary modifications

Sodium-rich foods with high salt content cause the body to retain water. This is another contributing factor in the increasing cases of varicose veins. Thus, cutting down on salty food can help in reducing the risk.

Also increasing the intake of foods high in potassium can help in reducing water retention. Almonds, lentils, potatoes, leafy vegetables are great sources of potassium. Also, foods rich in fibre are good for varicose veins. Nuts, seeds, oats, flaxseeds are great sources.

Apply Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a very effective home remedy for varicose veins. It helps improve blood flow and circulation, thus relieving the heaviness and swelling in your legs. Apply undiluted apple cider vinegar on your affected skin and gently massage the area. 

For best results, I recommend my patients to practice it daily before bed. In a few months, the size and visibility of varicose veins will decrease significantly. But you have to do it regularly like a daily regime.

Rub on some Olive Oil

Olive oil is another natural ingredient that sits on our kitchen shelves. Massaging the skin with olive oil helps increasing circulation and reduce pain and inflammation. It also helps in getting rid of stubborn scars and marks.

For best results, you can mix equal amounts of olive oil and Vitamin E oil. Warm the mix gently to get a proper blend. Massage your gnarled veins with this warm oil for a few minutes. Let the oil soak in and your nerves are relaxed. Repeat this twice every day for two months and your varicose veins will disappear magically.

Chop the Garlic Cloves

Garlic is a very effective remedy for heart and arteries related conditions. It helps improve the blood circulatory system of the body. The rich sulphurous compounds in garlic enhance the blood flow. Garlic is also known to prevent the development of blood clots in inflamed blood valves.

In addition, it has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The flavonoids in garlic also help strengthen the veins and blood vessels. Lemon too is a natural remedy for varicose veins.

Take 10 to 12 garlic cloves and crush to make a past. Extract the juice from 2 to 3 lemons and add 4 teaspoons of olive oil. Mix it all and leave it overnight. Massage the affected area with this blend twice a day for two months. And your varicose veins will be gone!

DIY Varicose Veins Prevention

• Keep your weight in check.
• Put a pillow under your feet while sleeping to give an elevated position to your feet.
• Avoid wearing tight clothes and high heels.
• Avoid standing for long periods of time.
•  Practice Abhyanga at the end of the day to relax your nerves. 

DIY Home Remedies for Varicose Veins – Do they really work?

A varicose vein is a condition caused by a constraint in the blood flow. Thus, improving the flow of blood through the clogged veins is the best way to undo the varicose veins. Many simple home remedies for varicose veins can work wonders. Natural ingredients with high anti-inflammatory properties are a safe and effective treatment for this condition. Also, focusing on your diet and physical activity helps combat a range of disorders including the varicose veins.