14 Tips to Improve Varicose Veins Naturally + The Best Essential Oils for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins, along with their smaller counterpart, spider veins, are enlarged and often bulging veins that typically appear on the legs and feet. These veins can be blue or purple and, in severe cases, are not only painful but also an annoying cosmetic concern. Many individuals, particularly women, suffer from varicose veins, which can sometimes cause a significant amount of discomfort. Fortunately, there are various natural remedies to alleviate or prevent the worsening of this condition.

Causes of Varicose Veins

Veins are blood vessels responsible for returning blood to the heart. In the legs, this is a difficult task as the blood must travel against gravity. Varicose veins develop when the following occurs:

• Elasticity loss in the veins: Veins become less elastic, making it difficult for them to return to their normal size after periods of increased blood flow, such as during physical activity.

• Weakened vein valves: Vein valves help prevent blood from flowing backward. When they weaken, blood pools in the lower legs, leading to vein swelling.

• Venous insufficiency: This occurs when the valves in the veins fail, causing blood to flow improperly and increasing pressure on vein walls. As the veins expand, they protrude through the skin.

Other factors contributing to varicose veins include standing or sitting for long periods, being overweight, pregnancy, and certain hormonal changes. Additionally, genetics, a sedentary lifestyle, and aging all increase the risk of developing varicose veins (National Institute of Health, 2023).

How to Delay the Appearance of Varicose Veins

While it may not always be possible to fully prevent varicose veins, there are steps you can take to delay or reduce their development. Here are 14 tips to help:

1. Avoid prolonged standing or sitting: Moving your legs occasionally can improve circulation. If you must stand for long periods, try to walk around to promote blood flow.

2. Moderate physical activity: Engage in low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling to strengthen vein walls and enhance blood circulation. A full heel-to-toe motion while walking promotes circulation.

3. Avoid heat exposure: Hot tubs, saunas, and long sun exposure can expand blood vessels and worsen varicose veins. Opt for cold or lukewarm showers to help constrict veins.

4. Elevate your legs: Sitting or lying down with your legs slightly raised helps blood flow from your legs to your heart, alleviating pressure on the veins.

5. Use compression stockings: While they won’t eliminate varicose veins, compression stockings help reduce swelling and prevent further vein dilation by applying gentle pressure.

6. Wear comfortable shoes: Avoid wearing high heels for long periods, as they can exacerbate varicose veins. Opt for shoes that promote circulation.

7. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight places additional strain on the veins. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help you manage your weight and reduce pressure on your veins.

8. Address constipation: Frequent constipation can increase pressure on the veins. If you suffer from constipation, consider dietary changes or home remedies to improve digestion.

9. Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining good circulation and keeping blood vessels healthy. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, which can contribute to dehydration.

10. Take nutritional supplements: Certain vitamins and minerals, like B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc, support the elasticity of blood vessels and strengthen vein walls. Consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

11. Avoid tight clothing: Tight clothes, especially around the waist or thighs, can restrict blood flow and increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins.

12. During long flights: If you have to fly for extended periods, consult your doctor about blood thinners like aspirin to prevent blood clots. Take breaks to walk around and wear compression socks to minimize swelling and improve circulation.

13. Herbal remedies: Herbal supplements like bilberry or butcher’s broom may support blood circulation and vein health. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any herbs.

14. Use essential oils: Essential oils, when used properly, can improve circulation and help manage varicose veins. A massage with the right blend of oils can promote blood flow and reduce the appearance of veins.

Essential Oils for Varicose Veins

Essential oils are known for their ability to support blood flow, promote vein health, and prevent varicose veins from worsening. Though they aren’t a cure for large varicose veins, essential oils are effective for improving circulation, reducing swelling, and improving the appearance of smaller veins.

Here are some of the most effective essential oils for varicose veins:

• Clary Sage Oil: Known for its ability to improve blood circulation, clary sage oil has been shown to reduce blood flow-related issues when blended with other oils such as marjoram, cinnamon, ginger, and geranium (Journal of Essential Oil Research, 2022).

• Rose Oil: This oil helps improve blood circulation and has been found effective for menstrual cramps caused by poor blood flow. It can also support vein health when mixed with lavender and clary sage (Phytotherapy Research, 2021).

• Cypress Oil: Cypress oil helps reduce the size of swollen blood vessels and is often used to treat varicose veins due to its ability to improve circulation and prevent blood pooling (Alternative Medicine Review, 2020).

• Geranium Oil: This oil encourages blood vessels to contract, making it helpful for reducing bulging veins and improving circulation.

• Ginger Oil: Ginger oil is particularly effective in promoting blood flow and lowering blood pressure. It is useful for improving circulation and treating spider veins (Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2022).

• Frankincense Oil: Known for its ability to improve circulation, frankincense oil may also help balance estrogen levels, which is important for those with hormonal imbalances.

• Basil Oil: This oil not only helps improve blood circulation but also serves as an analgesic for painful varicose veins, helping to alleviate discomfort (BMC Complementary Medicine, 2021).

• Calamus Oil: Calamus oil is effective for enhancing blood circulation and is often used in inhalation therapy for improving overall circulation.

• Cassia Bark Oil: This oil is effective in tightening blood vessels and improving circulation, which can be particularly helpful for those dealing with varicose veins.

How to Use Essential Oils for Varicose Veins

Here are a few ways to incorporate essential oils into your routine for varicose veins:

• Cold Compress: To relieve pain and swelling, dilute a few drops of cypress oil in water and apply it as a cold compress to the affected area. Elevate your legs while using the compress for maximum benefit.

• Foot Bath: Add 20 drops of cypress oil to cold water and soak your feet for several minutes. For added relief, add basil oil for pain relief.

• Massage Blend: Mix 3 tablespoons of sweet almond oil with 10 drops each of cypress, frankincense, and clary sage oils. Massage the affected area twice a day in an upward direction toward the heart to improve blood circulation.

• Food-Grade Essential Oils: For ginger and cinnamon oils, add a drop or two to your tea or smoothie to enhance circulation from the inside out.

Time and Consistency are Key

Varicose veins can take time to improve, so it’s important to apply the chosen treatment consistently. Over time, the veins will begin to shrink as blood circulation improves and the veins contract.

Conclusion

Although varicose veins can be difficult to prevent entirely, there are many natural remedies that can help manage and improve the condition. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and the use of essential oils can significantly improve circulation, reduce the appearance of varicose veins, and prevent them from worsening. For best results, apply these treatments consistently and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns or if your condition worsens.

For more information on the best ways to improve circulation and vein health, check out my e-book Magical Aromatherapy, which provides in-depth guidance on using essential oils for a variety of health issues.