Varicose veins: the most effective dietary supplements

Varicose veins are permanent, abnormal dilations of the veins, mainly located in the lower limbs. They result from insufficiency of the venous valves, which are responsible for preventing blood reflux. These dilated veins take on a tortuous 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 seen as an aesthetic problem but reveal an underlying venous pathology. Major risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, and genetic predisposition.

Causes of varicose vein development

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 the venous valves. When these valves are defective or absent, blood can flow back, increasing pressure in the superficial veins and causing them to distend. 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 progression. Initially, varicose veins may be perceived as a simple aesthetic nuisance, marked by the appearance of visible, dilated, and tortuous veins under the skin, often bluish or purplish in color. These veins are more frequently observed in the lower limbs, particularly in the calves, thighs, and sometimes behind the knees. Other symptoms include: • Pain and heaviness in the legs: Patients often report a sensation of heavy legs, especially at the end of the day or after prolonged periods of standing or sitting. • Edema: Localized swelling, mainly around the ankles, can appear, particularly at the end of the day. This edema is generally reversible after a night of rest. • Muscle cramps: Nocturnal cramps, particularly in the calves, are a common symptom and can cause considerable discomfort. • Itching: A sensation of pruritus or skin irritation may occur around varicose veins, often due to local inflammation. • Numbness and burning sensations: These signs reflect a local alteration of venous circulation.

Medical and surgical treatments

Treatment of varicose veins includes a variety of approaches aimed at relieving symptoms, preventing complications, and improving cosmetic appearance. These options are divided into medical interventions and surgical solutions: • Phlebotonics: These medications, often of plant origin (for example, diosmin or flavonoids), strengthen vein walls, improve microcirculation, and reduce inflammation. They are used to alleviate symptoms such as pain, heaviness, and edema. • Sclerotherapy: This technique involves injecting an irritating solution directly into the varicose veins, causing them to close and be reabsorbed by the body. Sclerotherapy is particularly effective for telangiectasias (spider veins) and small varicose veins. • Laser and thermal treatments: Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) use heat to close affected veins. These procedures are minimally invasive, require local anesthesia, and are associated with rapid recovery. • Vein stripping: A traditional surgical procedure that involves removing varicose veins through small incisions. Although effective, this technique is used less frequently in favor of less invasive approaches. • Microphlebectomy: A procedure in which varicose veins are removed through small incisions using special instruments. It is often combined with other treatments. • Endoscopic surgery: Used in severe cases or when ulcers are present, this method employs a small camera to visualize and treat damaged veins.

Natural therapies

Dietary supplements offer effective options for managing varicose veins. These approaches, focused on strengthening vein walls, improving blood circulation, and reducing inflammation, can be used alone or in combination with conventional treatments. The best-known vein-tonic plants include: • Red vine (Vitis vinifera): Thanks to its richness in flavonoids and anthocyanins, it strengthens blood vessel walls and reduces their permeability, thereby reducing edema and the sensation of heavy legs. • 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. • Butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus): It stimulates venous tone and improves venous return, thereby reducing swelling and symptoms associated with varicose veins. • Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana): Used for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps reduce swelling and local irritation. • Sweet clover (Melilotus officinalis): Rich in coumarins, it improves microcirculation and reduces edema by promoting lymphatic drainage. Trace elements can form a background treatment alongside conventional therapies. Silicon and copper are important for good quality of vascular connective tissue. As for selenium, it modulates the vascular inflammatory response.

Prevention

• 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 provide significant symptomatic relief and slow disease progression. • Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, regular physical activity (such as walking or swimming), and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can alleviate symptoms. Resting with the legs elevated also helps reduce venous stasis. Finally, a diet high in fiber (to prevent constipation) and low in salt (to limit water retention) helps reduce pressure on the veins.