Varicose veins are enlarged, discolored veins. They appear swollen and twisted. Varicose veins are typically 3 millimeters or more in diameter. They are commonly found on the backs of the calves or on the thighs. Varicose veins are often painful and itchy. Scratching them can cause open sores to appear.

Varicose veins are a common occurrence in the western world, anyone who doesn’t suffer the condition, must have, at least seen someone who does. Though varicose veins do not always constitute a problem that requires urgent medical attention, they can be quite unsightly and depressing.

Varicose veins occur when the vein valve fails to function normally. Blood is allowed by the healthy vein valve to flow normally in one direction. Once the integrity of the vein is compromised, blood flow becomes abnormal. Blood flows back in the opposite direction, which causes pooling inside the vein. This condition consequently results in swelling.

Due to blood pooling in the veins, varicose veins is characterized by a dull sensation of pain, cramps, feeling of heaviness in the legs or fatigue after standing for a short period. It is a general belief that the condition does not constitute much of a medical problem, except for the ugly, depressing sight it creates. Unfortunately, this is only true as long as the condition is treated on time.

Natural remedies for varicose veins exist which can reduce the severity of the veins. Rather than just hide the symptoms, herbal supplements can address the root of the problem. Basically, by improving overall health of the circulatory system and its veins, this problem can be banished. There are natural remedies which work by increasing circulation and strengthening the veins.

Aromatherapy

This is an excellent choice amongst the natural treatment for varicose veins, as the oils can help with the swelling that may occur with varicose veins. Massaging the area around the veins with certain oils, can help reduce the size of the veins as well as reduce swelling.

Sclerotherapy - This is a non-surgical procedure in which a solution is injected into the problem varicose veins or spider veins in order to cause its disappearance.

Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) -works by heating the inside of the vein, which causes it to seal shut and disappear. This treatment requires that a very thin laser fiber be inserted into the damaged underlying vein.

The best way to prevent or stop the evolution of varicose veins is by paying more extensive care to the condition of your legs. Soft massaging and special foot baths are of great help in stimulating the blood flow in the area and increasing the blood vessels resistance.

There are all sorts of ointments and gels based on the active ingredients in herbs like chamomile, calendula or chestnut extract.

Some people would rather turn to holistic treatments to prevent and ease varicose veins. Acupuncture cannot help the problem get better, but activating certain acupuncture sights can help to keep varicose veins from getting worse. Some people turn to aromatherapy. Cypress and geranium essential oils are used by blending twelve drops of them with another oil and rubbing the mixture on the legs, not just the veins. Oil of rosemary is also massaged onto the veins to help stimulate circulation.