Ayurvedic Treatment for Varicose Veins: Often, people complain of tired or fatigued limbs, many times making their mobility a discomfort, also noticing bluish or reddish enlarged areas over limbs. If these are bothering you, it can be due to varicose veins. Here will discuss Ayurvedic treatment for Varicose vein.
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So What Are Varicose Veins?
A condition that mostly affects the leg area, wherein the veins of the legs become swollen twisted, or enlarged and are visible prominently as bluish masses are termed varicose veins.
Most of the time the condition goes unnoticed or it may not be of any concern as they do not exhibit any symptoms and they are not in much trouble. Sometimes it may be of concern based on cosmetic reasons. But when the condition reaches a stage wherein there is an association of pain, throbbing, discomfort, heaviness of limbs, or stiffness, it needs to be appropriately addressed.
What are the causes of varicose veins?
When it is increased or excessive pressure brought about over the abdomen and hips it can result in varicosity.
Standing for long hours can lead to pressure on the veins.
Other causative factors may be obesity, pregnancy, aging factor, menopause or fatigue. Lack of nutrients in the diet can reduce the elasticity of veins leading to varicose.
Few other reasons for varicose vein
- excessive strain on the legs & stomach due to immoderate weight benefit
- Weakening of the body due to age
- Hormonal disorder
- Extended intervals of standing which create extra stress at the legs
- Lack of workout
- Undertaking sporting events that put excess stress on the legs
- Genetic predisposition
- Sicknesses like vein thrombosis
- A severe injury or surgical treatment of the leg
Risk Factors in Varicose vein
Complications of varicose veins, although rare, can include:
- Ulcers: Painful ulcers may form on the skin near varicose veins, particularly near the ankles. A discoloured spot on the skin usually begins before an ulcer forms.
- Blood clots: Occasionally, veins deep within the legs become enlarged. In such cases, the affected leg may become painful and swell. The condition is known medically as thrombophlebitis.
- Bleeding: Occasionally, veins very close to the skin may burst. This usually causes only minor bleeding. But any bleeding requires medical attention.
Read more about Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment in Ayurveda (Blood Clots in Deep Veins)
Prevention of Varicose vein
There’s no way to completely prevent varicose veins, but improving your circulation and muscle tone may reduce your risk of developing them or getting additional ones. You can also take the same measures to treat the discomfort from varicose veins at home.
- Exercising
- Watching your weight
- Eating a high-fiber, low-salt diet
- Avoiding high heels and tight hosiery
- Elevating your legs
- Changing your sitting or standing position regularly
What Happens in Varicose Veins?
Generally, veins help in the circulation of blood back to the heart. They have valves to allow the blood to flow and they are closed to prevent the blood from flowing back. But when the elasticity of the veins is affected their functionality gets affected making the blood pool up in the vein leading to varicosity.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
Veins that appear prominently bulged, blue or red lined, heaviness or tiredness in limbs, sometimes itching around the area, sore or pain in legs, sometimes associated with discoloration.
Symptoms you can have varicose veins consist of:
- Veins which are darkish red or blue in shade
- Veins that seem twisted and bulging; may be regularly like cords on your legs
When painful signs and symptoms and signs arise, they’ll consist of:
- An achy or heavy feeling on your legs
- Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping, and swelling for your decreased legs
- Worsened ache after sitting or sitting for a long time
- Itching around one or more of your veins
- pores and skin discoloration around a varicose vein
Spider veins are just like varicose veins, but they may be smaller. These veins are observed towards the skin’s surface and are regularly red or blue. Spider veins arise on the legs, but also can be discovered on the face. They vary in size and frequently appear to be a spider’s web.
Best Ayurvedic Medicine for Varicose Veins
While Ayurveda offers various herbal medicines for managing varicose veins, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any treatment. The appropriate medicines may vary based on individual constitution and specific symptoms. Here are some Ayurvedic medicines commonly used for varicose veins:
1) Triphala Guggulu: Combines the detoxifying properties of Triphala with the anti-inflammatory effects of Guggulu. It may help in reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.
2) Yogaraja Guggulu: Contains a combination of herbs like Guggulu, Triphala, and others. It is believed to support joint health and circulation.
3) Kaishora Guggulu: Known for its detoxifying properties, Kaishora Guggulu is believed to help purify the blood and support overall vascular health.
4) Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) Capsules: Gotu Kola is often used in Ayurveda to support healthy circulation. It may help strengthen the veins and improve blood flow.
5) Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) Extract: Horse Chestnut is known for its potential to strengthen veins and reduce inflammation. It is available in various forms, including capsules and extracts.
6) Varunadi Vati: Contains herbs like Varuna, Punarnava, and Gokshura. It is believed to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially supporting vascular health.
7) Bilvadi Leha: Made from Bael (Bilva) fruit, this Ayurvedic formulation may help in promoting healthy blood circulation.
8) Arjuna Capsules: Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) is known for its cardiovascular benefits. It may help strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
Tips for Usage
Herbal Oils: Many of these herbs are infused into oils (e.g., Kottamchukkadi Thailam, Dhanvantaram Thailam) for external massage.
Consultation: Always consult an Ayurvedic physician to determine the right combination and dosage based on your constitution (Prakriti) and condition.
These herbs, combined with Ayurvedic therapies like Raktamokshana (bloodletting), Udwartana (herbal powder massage), and lifestyle modifications, offer a comprehensive approach to managing varicose veins naturally.
What is the Ayurveda perspective? / Ayurvedic Treatment for Varicose Veins
Ayurveda advocates that the sharira or the human body comprises tridoshas, saptadhatu, trimala along with detailed mention of the organ systems also. Among saptadhatus, rakta is the second dhatu and the circulation of rakta dhatu occurs in sira or blood vessels. As it involves enlarged veins it mentioned as Siraja or Sira granthi in Ayurveda. It is caused due to the aggravated pitta dosha in the sira. It is associated with vitiated Kapha and Vata dosha at the area of enlargement, hence an imbalance in tridoshas.
The lakshanas or symptoms are gratitha sira or enlarged veins, sada or numbness, ayasa or fatigue, toda or pricking or continuous ache in the limbs and krishnakaraka sira or bluish purple discoloration of the skin due to veins.
How Does Ayurveda Approach Siraja Granthi?
The involvement of pitta, vata and sira are predominant here.
- Medications that help to improve circulation as well as to resolve the vitiated doshas are advised to help improve circulation, reduce the venous pressure and increase flexibility.
- External therapies like Abhyanga done in a reverse way along with Udwarthanam or powder massages facilitate the reduction in venous pressure.
- Ayurveda also advises bandages or Vesthana to strengthen the veins.
- A unique line of treatment in Ayurveda specific for varicose is Raktamokshana.
Raktamokshana or bloodletting therapy can be done using Leech popularly known as Jaloukavacharana. The areas wherein the enlargement of veins are prominent are selected and thoroughly cleaned and properly cleansed leeches are applied for a specific period of time. A few sessions of leech therapy will help to reduce the pressure and improve the condition considerably.
Raktamokshana done by Siravyadha is one among the Shastra karma. A procedure wherein a vein is punctured for therapeutic purposes. It helps to relieve vitiated doshas, improve circulation and reduce pressure.
Raktamokshana benefits in a quick and effective way giving excellent benefits in varicose veins.
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- Diet plays a major role in ayurveda and emphasis is laid on modifications in diet.
- Lifestyle changes are advised to improve quality of life,
- Exercises specific to the condition are also implemented.
Enjoy the benefits of Ayurveda for a healthy life.
Lifestyle and Supportive Practices
- Regular Yoga Asanas: Postures like Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand), Viparita Karani (Legs-up-the-Wall), and Tadasana improve venous return.
- Dietary adjustments focusing on high-fiber and low-salt foods.
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing to reduce vein strain.
- Exercise Regularly: Activities like walking, cycling, or yoga improve leg circulation.
Effective yoga poses include Viparita Karani (Legs-up-the-wall) and Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand). - Elevate Legs: Rest with legs elevated above heart level to promote venous return.
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Regularly shift positions and take breaks to improve circulation.
Dietary Adjustments
- Increase intake of high-fiber foods (whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) to prevent constipation, which puts pressure on veins.
- Include bioflavonoids (found in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens) to improve vein strength and circulation.
- Stay hydrated and reduce salt intake to prevent swelling caused by water retention.
Home Remedies for Varicose Veins Ayurvedic Treatment
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apply diluted vinegar to the veins to improve circulation and reduce swelling. Alternatively, consume a teaspoon of warm water daily.
- Garlic: Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce vein swelling. Consume raw garlic or prepare a paste for external application.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Apply fresh gel to soothe and reduce swelling.
- Witch Hazel Compress: Acts as an astringent, tightening skin and alleviating pain.
- Cold Compress: Helps reduce swelling and provides immediate relief from discomfort.
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