If you look hard enough, you'll find that nature is a step ahead of us, freely providing natural remedies for all kinds of common ailments including my nemesis, varicose veins. Not only am I genetically prone to varicose veins, I've had 5 kids. Experiencing five pregnancies definitely took it's toll on my body, I haven't worn shorts since baby #1. No regrets however, except maybe on 90 degree days which thankfully are few and far between in Wyoming. Varicose veins occur when pressure is placed on blood vessels.
Pregnancy, standing for long periods of time, hormone imbalance and weight gain are all contributing factors presenting undo pressure on veins most commonly located in the legs. These veins are the furthest from the heart and because of the pull of gravity, it's a little more difficult to get this blood to flow upward to the heart. Diet and exercise are of course the most excellent preventatives! Eating food high in fiber and omega-3's can prevent unnecessary pressure, berries high in flavonoids can help strengthen veins, high quality natural sources of vitamin e can help prevent blood clots and improve circulation. Even so, motherhood and aging can take it's toll and if that's the case, here's a natural remedy to help with discomfort and inflammation and may reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Alcohol-free Witch Hazel: Alcohol-free Witch Hazel is one of nature's finest astringents to tone, tighten and relieve inflammation. Tannins found in the bark, leaves and twigs of the witch hazel shrub are the source of the astringent properties. A folded washcloth soaked with alcohol free Witch Hazel and applied to areas of discomfort as a compress can soothe aching varicose veins and reduce inflammation in the case of phlebitis (inflammation of the veins).
Cypress essential oil: Rich in terpenes, pure Cypress essential oil is a pain reliever, an astringent encouraging restorative and toning effects on veins, helps to regulate blood flow, a sedative and helpful to liver in maintaining adequate bile production.
Helichrysum essential oil: Pure Helichrysum is an amazing essential oil and one that every household should have available in cases of emergency when help isn't available. Helichrysum has strong anti-coagulant (a blood thinner) and anti-hematic (stimulates enzymes to clear blood clots) properties among many others! If your varicose veins are uncomfortable, protruding and/or unsightly remember this application, in fact, it's always a good idea to write protocols down in your EO Journal for safe keeping should your electronic devices be unavailable.
Recipe By: CampWander
