[size=150]Horse Chestnut Extract[/size]
The herb horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) is one of the most widely used natural treatments for varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, a related condition.
The active constituent in horse chestnut is a compound called aescin. Aescin appears to block the release of enzymes that damage capillary walls
[size=150]Grape Seed and Pine Bark Extracts[/size]
The extract of grape seeds (Vitis vinifera) and pine bark (Pinus maritima) both contain oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), antioxidants that appear to strengthen the connective tissue structure of blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
Studies suggest that OPCs help people with various veins. Grape seed extract should not be confused with grapefruit seed extract.
The most commonly reported side effects are digestive complaints such as nausea and upset stomach.
[size=150]Butcher’s broom[/size]
A plant in the lily family, Butcher’s broom (Ruscus aculeatus) is also known as box holly or knee holly. It contains ruscogenins, constituents believed to strengthen collagen in blood vessel walls and improve circulation. This is thought to tighten weak, stretched vessels such as those associated with varicose veins.
Side effects of butcher’s broom may include digestive complaints such as indigestion or nausea. People with high blood pressure or benign prostate hyperplasia should not take butcher’s broom without first consulting a doctor. The safety of butcher’s broom in pregnant or nursing women or children has not been established.