Varicose Vein Supplements

There are supplements that can help relieve symptoms associated with varicose veins.

Supplements are best used as a complementary treatment, however, rather than the only treatment you use. In addition, it is important that you continue elevating your legs, using compression stockings, and engaging in daily low-impact exercise as part of your overall treatment plan.

Vitamins & Herbs for Varicose Veins

Vitamins and herbs are among the common supplements available over-the-counter. The main difference between the two is that vitamins are essential nutrients that may also be consumed regularly in the foods you eat. Herbs are those natural plants that are not part of the average diet. Another key difference is that vitamins have been studied more, and there is more medical support behind the use of specific vitamins.

Vitamins

The key vitamins that support circulation are vitamins C, B, and E. Also, flavonoids, while not technically a vitamin, can improve the effect of vitamin C in your body.

  • Vitamin C.Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can help reduce damage on a cellular level, while also boosting collagen production. Food high in vitamin C include oranges, lemons, tomatoes, berries, and broccoli.
  • Vitamin B3. Also known as niacin, vitamin B3 contains cholesterol-lowering properties and can help improve circulation. Food high in this vitamin include bananas, lentils, brown rice, wheat, turkey, and tuna.
  • Vitamin E. This vitamin may help prevent blood clots. That’s because it prevents platelets – the blood-clot forming cell within the blood – from sticking together. It also may improve circulation. Food high in vitamin E include spinach, broccoli, and kiwi. 
  • Flavonoids. A well-known supplement, diosmin, contains powerful flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory benefits and has been used to improve the function of the smallest blood vessels in our bodies, the capillaries. Food high in flavonoids include citrus fruits, berries, and apples.
woman has varicose veins in her legs

Herbs

Herbs and plants can help reduce inflammation, cholesterol levels, and improve blood flow.

Some of the more common herbs used to help those with varicose veins include:

  • Cayenne
  • Gingko biloba
  • Horse chestnut extract
  • Grape seed extract
  • Chromium
  • Butcher’s broom

Possible Dangers of Supplements & Herbs

Vitamins and herbs aren’t without risk. Depending on your overall health, medical history, and the daily medications you take, there can be dangers to using certain supplements. Some supplements may increase or decrease the effectiveness of your medications. Patients with certain medical conditions may require close monitoring and be advised to avoid specific supplements.

In addition, it is possible for you to take too many vitamins, particularly if you are using a daily vitamin as well as a vitamin-specific supplement. The key to using supplements for the additional treatment of varicose veins is to ask your doctor what supplements might be right for you – and how much to use on a daily basis.

Supplements to Help Prevent & Treat Varicose Veins

It should come as no surprise that there are supplements touted for nearly every condition under the sun. Still, we have found there are certain vitamins and herbs that have been helpful for people with or who are prone to developing varicose veins.

Learn about all your varicose vein treatment options at Edward G. Mackay and Associates, LLC. Call us at (727) 781-5652 to schedule your visit or request an appointment now. We look forward to seeing you at one of our three convenient locations in Tampa Bay: in Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, or Largo, Florida.