Varicose Veins: Ayurvedic Treatment, Herbs, Home Remedies
Varicose veins is a common health complaint in people like security guards, watchmen, cops, soldiers, vehicle pullers, porters, rickshaw pullers, launderers, drivers, teachers etc. As it is not having a permanent solution, people come to Ayurveda to get the relief of vein engorgement and aching pain. Also, they seek the ways to avoid the occurrence of the complaint.
Ayurveda explains Varicose veins as Siraja granthi. Here, blood veins are enlarged, fibrosed and become tortuous. The vein (which carries blood from legs to the heart), loses its elasticity. Due to longer standing, weight bearing, fatigue and long walk, the veins in the lower limb especially in calf and ankle are tired in re-sending the blood upwards. Thus the veins are swollen, dilated, lose their ability to shrink or re-establish the original status. Thus the condition varicose vein is resulted.
The Ayurvedic view and treatment measures of Siraja granthi is explained in brief here below.
Table of Contents
Causes
Varicose veins causes as per Ayurveda:
Intake of abhisyandi (which occlude channels) food like curd, lassie, deep fried foods, heavy non veg foods, junk foods, aerated drinks etc etc.
Wrong food combinations
Excess work(shramatiyogat)
Weight lifting (Bharavahana)
Long walk (adwagamana)
Intake of heavy (guru), mild(manda), cold(hima), unctuous(snigdha) food stuffs etc.
Origin of disease
Origin Of Siraja Granthi (Varicose veins)
Because blood vessels are involved, there is definitive involvement of Pitta Dosha.
Along with Pitta, Vata alone or Vata and Kapha are vitiated in their site of affliction, ie in weight bearing area like calf and ankle.
Ultimately the imbalanced Doshas disturb the vessels and the blood of that particular area (venous blood).
Thus the blood is stagnated due to obstruction of the pathway of the blood vessels. Hence, the veins are dilated in their weak points (limbs) and the Sirajagranthi (varicose vein) is resulted.
Symptoms
Varicose vein symptoms:
1. Aching pain in the lower limb (Toda).
2. Numbness or neuritis (Sada).
3. Heaviness (Gowrava)
4. Tiredness (Ayasa)
5. Tortuous veins (Grathitha sira)
6. Discoloration of the veins or skin (krishnarakta sira)
Varicosity as associated symptom
Varicose vein may be found with itching skin lesions like eczema, ulceration etc. If it ruptures, non healing ulcers are usually caused.
Varicosity may be formed in the conditions like portal hypertension also. Usually it is formed in association with hemorrhoid’s, oesophageal varices etc.
Varicocele (a condition of varicocity formed in the scrotal veins) may lead to infertility in its long run or if not treated appropriately.
Ayurvedic treatment
Ayurvedic treatment for Varicose Veins – Siraja Granthi
1. As it is a vata dominant diseased condition veshtana (wrapping of cloth or crepe bandaging) gives symptomatic relief in aching pain, heaviness, numbness etc.
2. Sira Vyadha (blood letting through venesection) is found to be effective in its management.
Otherwise, leech therapy can be carried out near the lesion.
3. The line of treatment of gout arthritis (vataraktha chikitsa) is applicable here also. It comprises of Enema treatment (Basti Chikitsa) and oral medicines.
Herbs used
Herbs useful in Varicose veins:
Eranda- Castor roots – Relieves pain and inflammation
Chirabilva- Holoptelia integrigfolia – Extensively used in vein related disorders such as piles.
Mandookaparni- Gotu Kola
Manjishta – Rubia cordifolia – Used in High Pitta conditions and blood vitiation due to Pitta
Guduchi – Giloy – Tinospora cardifolia – useful in relieving infection and inflammation.
Punarnava- Boehirravia diffusa
Sariva- Hemidesmus indica – Like Manjishta, it is also extensively used in high Pitta conditions.
Paranti- Ixora sp.
Ayurvedic medicines
Ayurvedic medicines useful in varicose veins:
Kaishora guggulu – It acts as – ageing skin health promoter, joint health, natural blood cleanser, useful as supportive dietary herbal supplement in many health conditions such as diabetes, skin diseases etc.
Sarivadyasava – used in the treatment of gout, diabetes and related skin complications, skin infections. It is a natural blood detox product.
Chirabilvadi kashaya – It is used in haemorrhoids, fistula, reduces burning sensation, it relieves bloating, improves digestion power.
Erandamooladi kashaya
Rasnerandai kashaya – It is used in the treatment of Gout, aches and pains related back, lumbar spondylosis, low back ache, etc
Guduchyadi kashaya – used in the treatment of fever with burning sensation, vomiting etc.
Mahamanjishtadi kashaya – used in treatment of skin diseases.
Phalatrikadi kashaya – It is used in the treatment of fever. vomiting and gastritis.
Punarnavashtaka kwatha – used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions like myxedema, ascites.
Ayurvedic home remedies
Easy Home remedies for Varicose veins:
Herbal paste application: The fine powder of the drugs vacha (Acorus calamus), Turmeric and Tulasi (Holy Basil) are taken in equal quantity and mixed well. To this, aloe vera juice is added and fine paste is made. This is applied to the length of the varicose vein. The paste is retained for 1-2 hours. 15-20 days of regular application relieves the aching pain of the varicose vein.
The leaf juice of Karanja (Pongamia pinnata)and castor 10 ml each and 5 ml of honey are taken together and mixed well.
This is taken in empty stomach for 21 days. It helps in the partial correction of the blood circulation in vericosed area.
Lifestyle advice
Rest to the limbs – If your job makes you to stand for long hours, make sure to sit for a while, in between.
Elevated legs – While sleeping, keep a pillow beneath your feet. This will keep the feet elevated and ensures that the blood flow is good in the legs.
Moderate exercise – not only makes your leg muscles strong, it also keeps the blood vessels in pretty good shape.
Wearing Varicose Veins socks, available in medical stores, is a good way of preventing / treating varicose veins of feet and legs.
Varicose vein is a health complaint which causes irritation to the professionals who have to stand or walk for long. It often causes cramps in the legs due to improper blood circulation.The ulcerated varicose lesions make the life miserable in the sufferers. So immediate attention to the beginning itself helps to prevent further complications.
Article by Dr Krishnamurthy and Dr Hebbar
50 comments on “Varicose Veins: Ayurvedic Treatment, Herbs, Home Remedies”
Maah
Thank you very much for good advice. Suppose such sufferer of varicose veins is pregnant? Are they any herbs to take internally to help combat the torture of having these afflictions? Or any of these herbs mentioned should not be taken?
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, as a general rule, it is best to avoid all medicines during pregnancy, other than nutritional supplements such as Iron tablets, Calcium tablets etc.
During pregnancy, it is best to follow “lifestyle advice” as explained above, oil massage with maha narayana taila, to the affected area 10 minutes before bath and crepe bandaging are the best remedies for varicose veins.
Monique
I have not varicose veins, but I have in arms and especially hands, green veins seem to be protruding. They look very aged, and I am only 67. Is it due to my vata, emaciated thinness? I feel embarrased to show my arms and hands. I thank you in advance for any advice.
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, it can be due to Vata, but it is quite normal after 60 years of age.
Dr.M.C.Patil
Thank you sir for your very informative article on vericose veins.The home remedy you mentioned is very easily available.
vasanti
very informative article .Any ayurvedic medicine that completely cure varicose veins?
thanks
Risi
Dear Dr. Please shed more light on Varicose ulcers & discoloration of leg, herbal remedies, & food intakes. Thank u for the above article.
Dr Malini Bhat
Eat whole grains such as millet and buckwheat, legumes, fruits and vegetables, which are high in fiber and rich in vitamins which can restore health to your veins.
> Vitamin A, which speeds varicose ulcer healing, is found in carrots, pumpkins, sweet potato and leafy greens.
> B vitamins, which help maintain strong blood vessels, are found in all seasonal fruits, lassi (yogurt drink), whole grains, lentils, pulses (legumes) and dhals.
> Vitamin C and bioflavonoids, which aid circulation, promote healing of sores and strengthen vein walls to prevent dilation, are found in melons, grapes, pomegranate, lemon, lime and other citrus fruits.
> Daily exercise is a must for improving circulation and reducing varicose veins. Inverted yoga poses can be especially helpful in restoring the normal flow of blood from the legs to the heart. Elevate your legs when sitting for long periods, and take frequent breaks to restore circulation.
Govinda Gauggel
Bioflavonoids are an important booster and life-extender of vitamin C. They should be taken together, whenever vitamin C is needed. Ester-C is a good choice. Freeda, inc. carries such bioflavonoids, separately.
Try Viparit karani [inverted yoga pose] to counter-balance downward force of prana if the sufferer stands for long periods. Lie silently on one’s back with legs extending upwards on a wall. Do easy ujjayi breathing and relax deeply. Follow with shavasana [corpse pose to consolidate the benefits throughout the body-systems.
Chi gung is a systematic simple yet effective way to deal with circulation concerns. It has to be done every day for cumulative benefits – increased immunity, easier breathing, increased lung capacity, sense of ell-being, preventive for depression and anxiety, regulates metabolism, blood pressure, etc….
Govinda Gauggel
Is Kanachanara gugulu appropriate for those with sensitive digestive tract? If so, at what dose? thanks
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
It is not commonly used for digestive tract disorders.
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
That is great to hear. Thanks for sharing your mother’s health experience.
praveen
Thank you sir for your advice & information
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, if varicocele is big, then surgery is a good option.
anil k s
Hello Dr. Hebbar Sir,
I have been reading your reply and it is very interesting. I am having Varicose problem since long but came to know of it just 6 months back. I wanted to know if the surgery is recommendable and will not have any side effects. I am into teaching profession so long hours of standing is in my daily routine. Please give your opinion about going in for surgery doctor.
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
If the varicoce veins is spread across the leg and is not resolved with natural measures, associated with severe pain, then surgery looks the better option. Usually it does not have any side effects.
ashok
What is buckwheat
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Asian plant of the dock family, producing starchy seeds that are used for fodder and also milled into flour which is widely used in the US.
Dr Rakesh shrihari MD (Ayu)
Dear sir, Very informative article on varicose veins.. In this condition there is definet involvement of pittadosha…so directly can we go for virechana karma?
SuneeshKondayil
Dr. How long can apply this oil
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
For up to 3 months time.
Sunil Kumar
if there is fever in frequent intervals then what to do
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, let me know your place.
Karan Singh Kothari
Hello Doctor, I am having Varicose veins in both the ankles, however the right side is more pronounced. The skin has become black and there is one specific spot which has become quite thick. There is not much pain though, maybe for some time in a day but nothing unbearable. The skin condition is more of a concern. Please help in what kind of treatment should be done
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Second one.
Tharanisujai
varicose vein is a heridity problem or depend upon their work
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
It is caused both due to hereditary factor and also due to standing for long periods of time.
Tharanisujai
If it is herditary means it is curable or not and now im in starting stage
Dr.Neha Dave
Read your article.
Very well illustration of varicose vein with ayurvedic perspective.
Ricky
Hi via bhav what is buckwheat
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buckwheat
deepthi
hi sir
i have a problem with varicos vains pltell remedies
RAVISAGAR
DEAR DR HEBBAR
PLEASE TELL ME ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION ALSO INCREASES THIS VERICOSE VEINS PROBLEM IS IT?
Anamika Anand
Hello doctor
I am having pelvic vericose veins and vericose on scar site( cesarian) and extended upto thigh. Is this curable or any way to reduce pain.
Mathapati
Dear Sir,
Does regular drinking of borewell water or tap water, which is not filtered, cause or increase Varicose Veins?
Please guide me.
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
It can.
Raja
Sir i am having dis vericoae veins problem on my feet nd the problem is iam practicing for physical test for psi which include running also
After 2 days of my running i got nurves swallow on the foot plss suggest me plsss
Lisa Hill
Great article! Varicose veins affect many peoples due to many causes like unhealthy lifestyle, bad food habits, genetic, and many others. But good thing is that it could be treated, we should have treatment as soon as possible to avoid any serious issue later. As described above it can be treated using various methods such as natural ingredients, home remedies, and products containing natural ingredients. Thanks for the article.
Mehar
Sir please told me my father had get pain and atching In right leg and for pain he get fever for immediate relief what to sir plz tel me Dr
sha
hai sir , i hav varicocele and taking medicine with ayurvedic doctor now varicose veins also appearing on legs , my doctor suggesred me to go for virechana panchakarma . is it good r not .
kamarthikarthik
can a person after surgery resume excercise after surgery like lifting weights etc..
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, people with varicose veins can take milk and garlic. It is also useful in high cholesterol.
Hind Akkari
Hi ! Can eating avocado make varicose veins worse ?
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
No
Aditi
Hello sir my mother is suffering from varicose vein but there are no other symotoms like pain or itching nor edema in the ankle but the veins are bulged and engorged andand d green in colour Iam also bams graduate student is it necessary to give her Sira vyada or only medicines are enough and if only medicines can u prescribe please thankyou
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Better to consult a doctor directly.
Dilip S
Dear Doctor,
I have read in the url below that ChirubilvAdi KaShAya pacifies Vaata & Kapha dOShas and it increases Pitta.
https://www.ayurtimes.com/chiruvilwadi-kashayam/
But in the link pointed by the article above, it says… ChirubilvAdi KaShAya pacifies Vaata & Pitta.
https://www.ayurmedinfo.com/2012/04/29/chiruvilwadi-kashayam-benefits-dosage-ingredients-side-effects-reference/
By looking at the ingredients of ChirubilvAdi KaShAya, it mostly increases Pitta and pacifies Vaata & Kapha.
Can you please confirm?
Kind regards,
Dilip S
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Yes, you are right. I have amended the article.
Bijal Damani
My mother suffers from non healing stubborn venous ulcers. Can you guide ?
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Please consult Dr Gururaja
https://www.easyayurveda.com/gururaja/