Varicose Veins: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Varicose veins are permanent and abnormal dilations of veins, mainly located in the lower extremities. They result from an insufficiency of venous valves, which are responsible for preventing blood reflux. These dilated veins take on a sinuous appearance and may be accompanied by pain, heaviness, or even more serious complications. Affecting nearly 40% of women and 20% of men, they are often perceived as an aesthetic problem but reveal an underlying venous pathology. The main risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, and genetic predispositions.

Causes of the Appearance of Varicose Veins

The venous system relies on mechanisms to return blood from the lower limbs to the heart. The main pumps include muscle contraction (notably in the calves), the diaphragm during respiration, and venous valves. These, when defective or absent, allow blood to reflux, increasing pressure in the superficial veins and causing their distension. Over time, venous endothelial cells undergo structural and functional changes that accentuate the loss of elasticity and promote the formation of varicose veins.

Symptoms

The clinical manifestations of varicose veins vary considerably depending on their severity and stage of evolution. Initially, varicose veins may be perceived as a mere aesthetic annoyance, marked by the appearance of visible, dilated, and sinuous veins under the skin, often bluish or purplish. These veins are most frequently observed in the lower limbs, especially in the calves, thighs, and sometimes behind the knees. Other symptoms include: 6 Pain and heaviness in the legs: Patients often report a feeling of heavy legs, especially at the end of the day or after a prolonged period of standing or sitting. 6 Edema: A localized swelling, mainly around the ankles, may appear, particularly at the end of the day. This edema is generally reversible after a night's rest. 6 Muscle cramps: Night cramps, especially in the calves, are a frequent symptom, causing considerable discomfort. 6 Itching: A sensation of itching or skin irritations may occur around varicose veins, often due to local inflammation. 6 Numbness and burning sensations: These signs reflect a local alteration of venous circulation.

Medical and Surgical Treatments

The treatment of varicose veins includes a variety of approaches aimed at relieving symptoms, preventing complications, and improving appearance. These options are divided into medical interventions and surgical solutions: 6 Phlebotonics: These medications, often plant-based (e.g., diosmin or flavonoids), strengthen venous walls, improve microcirculation, and reduce inflammation. They are used to attenuate symptoms such as pain, heaviness, and edema. 6 Sclerotherapy: This technique involves injecting an irritating solution directly into varicose veins, causing their closure and reabsorption by the body. Sclerotherapy is particularly effective for spider and small varicose veins. 6 Laser and Thermal Treatments: Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) use heat to close affected veins. These procedures are minimally invasive, requiring local anesthesia, and are associated with quick recovery. 6 Vein Stripping: A traditional surgical intervention that involves removing varicose veins through small incisions. Although effective, this technique is increasingly being replaced by less invasive approaches. 6 Microphlebectomy: A procedure where varicose veins are removed through small incisions using special instruments. It is often combined with other treatments. 6 Endoscopic Surgery: Used in severe cases or in the presence of ulcers, this method employs a small camera to visualize and treat damaged veins.

Natural Therapies

Dietary supplements offer effective solutions for managing varicose veins. These approaches, focused on strengthening venous walls, improving blood circulation, and reducing inflammation, can be used alone or in combination with conventional treatments. The most known venotonic plants: 6 Red Vine (Vitis vinifera): Thanks to its richness in flavonoids and anthocyanins, it strengthens blood vessel walls and reduces their permeability, thereby mitigating edema and the feeling of heavy legs. 6 Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum): Aescin, its main active compound, has anti-inflammatory and venotonic properties. It decreases fluid accumulation in tissues, reducing edema and promoting better circulation. 6 Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus): It stimulates venous tone and improves venous return, thereby reducing swelling and symptoms associated with varicose veins. 6 Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana): Used for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, it promotes the reduction of swelling and local irritations. 6 Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis): Rich in coumarins, it improves microcirculation and reduces edema, promoting lymphatic drainage. Trace elements can provide a supportive treatment to conventional treatments. Silicon and copper are important for good quality vascular connective tissue. As for selenium, it modulates vascular inflammatory response.

Prevention

6 Elastic Compression: Compression stockings or elastic bandages are often the first line of defense. They exert graduated pressure on the legs, promoting venous return and reducing edema. Although these devices do not eliminate varicose veins, they offer significant symptomatic relief and slow the progression of the disease. 6 Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, regular physical activity (such as walking or swimming), and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can alleviate symptoms. Resting with elevated legs also helps reduce venous stasis. Finally, a fiber-rich diet (to prevent constipation) and low in salt (to limit water retention) helps reduce pressure on veins.