Combat Varicose Veins Naturally
- Desirée Lee
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 5
Varicose Veins affect many, what does copper and vitamin C have to do with it?
Sure, you’ve heard about this type of vein.. or maybe suddenly you have this type of vein. What’s more is that 20-30% or an estimated 40 million Americans are affected with this condition right now. While it isn’t the worst of the worst diagnoses by any means, it could turn problematic in time and frustrating until under control.
Some of us may experience an easier case of varicose veins while others may need a bit more support. For example, a mild case might include eczema. While a more uncomfortable state could mean aching, itching and heaviness in the legs. While a more aggressive case might lead to bleeding veins, ulcers in the skin and more intense pain.
According to the articles at the end of this blog, there are great ways to combat varicose veins holistically - all of which we will get to. But first, the top two methods I believe are best are those that seem to fight inflammation best:
Elevation of the legs
Walking
Resources say that it is optimal to elevate the legs 3-4 times a day but they don’t specify what length of time is needed. I recommend taking as many midday elevations you feel is good and making sure to end your day with at least 10 minutes of elevation. Try supporting your legs on the wall from the six to the 12 o’clock hands as you lay supine. You should feel a tingling in your feet if the blood is properly flushing.
While some people who are very active and still have a vein condition, there is more than enough evidence to show that an activity like walking brings about relief. Even something as small as fidgeting can be beneficial for the body while sedentary. Being mindful of the way you naturally sit or stand is especially helpful if you have a long period of time without changing positions. If work gets in the way, opt to take 5-10 minute elevation breaks for yourself midday. You don’t need a doctor's note to do so, only grace and permission from yourself.
From a nutritional point of view, cayenne pepper and horse chestnut can decrease inflammation. Massage cuffs or compression socks are also recommended especially for those that sit for long periods of time. However, make sure not to take on too much compression as this can be very uncomfortable and possibly worsen the situation (15-20mm seems to be average versus the medical grade of 40mm).
To find out if you have varicose veins, you can take any of the following tests:
Perth test
Tap test
Cough test
Trendelenburg test
Duplex Ultrasound
Personally, I would ask your doctor for a full blood test to see what you might be deficient in. Out of all the research I’ve come across, consuming vitamin C naturally through many vegetables is crucial for veins.
*Note that you should avoid synthetic vitamin C (ie ascorbic acid).
Summary
To summarize, some natural ways to help reduce and prevent varicose veins include:
Understanding possible vitamin deficiencies such as copper gluconate, natural vitamin C cayenne pepper, horse chestnut
Consistently elevate, workout and take walks
Drink more water
Use compression socks like Bombas, cuffs or sleeves like Normatec
Limit salts and increase fiber
Actively stretch your hamstrings and calves - for a reference video see here
Make sure you also wear good shoes inside and outside of the house.
What not to do
Refrain from the following:
Smoking
Drinking alcohol
Wearing high heels
Wearing tight clothing
Sitting or standing for long durations
Consume diary or sugar, high sodium, processed or canned foods
Massaging varicose veins directly and with pressure - this includes palpitation of the hands and electronic devices such as massage guns
Be watchful
**Beware if you have very dark red vein/s that are painful to touch. If so, then you need to seek medical attention and have a test done as this could lead to a blood clot.
References:
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