Varicose Veins

The painful and unsightly condition often starts during pregnancy, so it makes sense to take steps to avoid them.

Diet plays a part, so eat lots of fibre – fruit (especially cherries, blackberries and blueberries), plus wholemeal bread, beans, pasta, salad and vegetables.

You should also take regular exercise and not stand immobile for too long. Support tights really do help – and these days you can buy them in many different colours. The black ones look no different from the opaque, high fashion, highly priced alternatives in department stores.

A surprising but very common cause of varicose veins is constipation. Contrast bathing with alternate hot and cold water helps improve circulation, and useful therapies include massage and aromatherapy. Don’t sit with your legs crossed or sit for long periods on hard chairs; both restrict the return flow of blood from the legs to the heart.

If you’ve already had varicose veins, the herbs may help reduce the chance of a repeat episode but do not take any remedies during pregnancy unless on the advice of your doctor, a pharmacist or qualified medical herbalist:

  • Horse chestnut
  • Gotu kola
  • Butcher’s broom
  • Bilberry
  • Grape seed
  • Pine bark
  • Bromelain
  • Vitamin E
  • Rutin
     
     
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    The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.