The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Nattokinase
Posted by Mandy (Qld) on 01/12/2023
★★★★★
I use Nattokinase due to hyperviscosity, I have severe varicose veins, and hemorrhoids and cannot take blood thinners.
After multiple thromboses, 2 heart attacks, and a stroke, I found out about it on a coronary care website.
5 weeks ago, I began with 4000 FU per day increasing to 4x 4000 FU per day for 3 weeks. Will shortly drop back to 4000 FU per day. I use alongside K2 every second day. My issues have settled, my varicose veins are noticeably less, not hard and painful anymore. ( I have had this chronic complaint for approximately 35 years.)
To say that I am impressed by the results is an understatement.
My heartbeat is still often irregular however I am seeing better results and quicker recovery times.
Air Compression Leg Massager
Posted by Alex (Thessaloniki - Greece) on 12/08/2022
★★★★★
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Anon (Anon, Anon USA) on 07/15/2013
Try inclined bed therapy (ICB) for varicose veins. It is Super easy, you just raise the head of your bed by 6". Google "inclined bed therapy" for more info. Made my veins much improved! Also good for other issues.
Witch Hazel
Posted by Haler (West Coast, Ca, Usa) on 05/11/2013
Gramma died from repeated varicose veins removal surgeries. Dr said he'd never once seen them 'return'. Our holistic dr says he's never seen them NOT 'return' and said dr's won't actually admit 'they grow back' - because they are really an alive vein that just has collapsed from lack of blood circulating through it - 'collapsed'. My and husband had them from my secretary years of long hours sitting and his business travel hours of long driving. Our dr said to just do regular topical massage - like a rubdown - after a shower or bath just rubbing with our hands on and around the skin of blue (collapsed) vein areas for a couple minutes, or while watching tv, or as a car passenger, daily or whenever we think of it... Also, after any very active outdoor sports or other outings, we'll do a few minutes rubdown on those areas. Now it's been many years for us both since we've ever had them.
Varicose Vein Study
Posted by Linda (Eugene, Oregon) on 05/15/2012
I visit Earth Clinic all the time and recommend it to anyone who is struggling with illness issues. However, I have neglected to take the time to post a "yea" on the inclined bed idea. I have been plagued with vericose veins for years and then read here about raising the head of the bed 6 inches. That seemed crazy, but like most natural remedies, "simple" is usually the way to go. I have seen a great improvement in the veins on the back of both legs and have only been at this for a week. Another interesting thing happened.... My husband who has Normal Hydrocephalus plus some loss of strength in his right side as a result of a stroke, is improving!! This after 2 years of therapy and several operations with not much success........ just say'n.
Big hugs to all the contributors and posts. You rock!
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Ted (Bangkok,Thailand) 391 posts
And yes, apple cider vinegar really does help varicose veins. Vitamin C taken about 1-1.5 grams per day has also been shown to help. Natural Vitamin E (taken along with the C) seems to help vitamin C be more effective also.
Black Peppercorns
Posted by alleycat (flemington, nj) on 05/06/2021
★★★★★
Since hemorrhoids are varicose veins in the rectum, has anyone tried black peppercorns (the popular hemorrhoid remedy) for bulging varicose veins in the legs?
Avoid Aspirin
Posted by Anon (USA) on 10/23/2017
★★★★★
I started taking aspirin on an empty stomach with only coffee and antacids. After a few weeks I developed swelling in my lower legs and after that varicose veins. My legs also hurt when I layed down at night to sleep. Milk and bananas would take away the pain. I was also on birth control pills around that time. Avoid aspirin. It has been shown to damage blood vessels.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Sums (Mumbai, Maharashtre) on 12/24/2015
★★★★★
I started getting varicose veins after the birth of my 3 rd son and during my periods on day 2 and 3 along with heavy flow. On taking coconut oil 1 Tablespoon in the morning and at night my pain disappears and heavy flow becomes moderate.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Maria (Moses Lake, Wa) on 08/29/2012
I have a question, I mix my Apple Cider Vinegar with honey and water that has been boiled, and has warmed down. Does it make a difference if I drink it warm. Because honestly the drink, cold is disgusting I'm gaging by the time I finish. I think the warm water takes off the edge to how sour/bitter it tastes. P. S. how acidic should the vinger be and what brand is best for varicose veins? I just started I use organic 5% acidity.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by G Vig (Houston) on 09/18/2015
Please don't boil honey. Heated honey is toxic for the body. Enjoy it Raw ... :)
Magnesium
Posted by Lasaras (North Brunswick, Nj, Usa) on 12/18/2011
Ted indicated use of Magnesium Supplement in Vericose Vein Remedies. It was mentioned that use of Magnesium supplement 500 mg helps relax heart muscles and enables normal circulation. I wish to know whether this will also help to restore Vericose vein to normal state. I will be happy to know experience of any Earth Clinic Members on this.
Dried Basil
Posted by Man From Modesto (Kiev, Ukraine) on 08/12/2014
Connie, Regarding your tight calf muscles. I also had this problem. Like you, I have a coffee history. I owned 3 coffee shops in Philly... and continued to drink coffee after losing them (to a corrupt Phila. attorney, not to poor management).
I studied and read and read. This is what I learned:
1. Coffee causes the kidneys to flush the body system. This flushes out a lot of water. With the water, minerals and nutrients flush out.
2. Evidence will begin to appear in the finger nails. Ridges first, then little pock marks appear.
3. Because coffee is often consumed with milk, you also will have more Calcium.
4. Muscles contract with Calcium and relax with Magnesium.
5. Deficient Magnesium and tight calf muscles go together. Night cramps is a further development.
6. Other drinks that create this effect: Tea, carbonated water, sports drinks... and things that make you urinate.
7. Most foods high in Mg are also high (often higher) in Ca. I found one food that is extremely high in Mg, with much less Ca. This is raw pumpkin seeds.
I started eating the pumpkin seeds. In a few weeks, the pits were gone from my finger nails. The night cramps went away. (A later cappuccino binge brought one last one.)
More recently, I started taking Magnesium Citrate pills. This is really helping, even better than pumpkin seeds.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Rose3000 (Los Angeles, California) on 07/19/2011
★☆☆☆☆
hi I been using apple vinegar cider for 3 months. I apply it twice a day to spider veins on legs and drink with water daily twice a day. so far havent seen any improvement.
Witch Hazel
Posted by Jody (East liverpool OH) on 11/12/2005
★★★★★
I have been hearing lately dabbing witch hazel on the veins will help. I have tried this and I have noticed some spider veins getting much lighter as well, hopefully this will help someone else.
Incline Bed Therapy
Posted by Barbara (California) on 12/06/2018
★☆☆☆☆
I don't recommend the inclined bed therapy, having used it myself. It made my varicose veins and leg swelling worse! After hearing about inclined bed therapy, I bought a mattress, mainly to help reduce congestion in my nose at night, and to reduce acid reflex. I also had some varicose veins. Unfortunately, I have had to remove the special mattress, because within six months, the varicose veins got much worse, and swelling in my legs, ankles and feet increased! There was also a lot of uncomfortable itching in my legs in the varicose and swollen areas. I researched for natural cures for varicose veins, and ALL of the sites say to raise the legs 6 inches higher than the heart whenever possible, especially at night when sleeping. Google for the full explanations for why this is necessary, there are many good websites. The human vascular system, with it's arteries and veins and valves, is NOT designed like a tree! My acid reflux didn't improve either. The congestion in my nose did decrease, so for sleeping, I raise my head a bit on a pillow that molds around my head and neck (down or whatever works), and put pillows under my legs to gently raise them.
Avoid Aspirin
Posted by User B (Athens - Greece) on 01/26/2023
Contraceptive pills with hormones might cause thrombosis and thrombosis can cause swelling if it happens in the legs' veins.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Randee (Boston) on 05/20/2013
The Apple cider vinegar best to use is Apple Cider Vinegar with the MOTHER ( it will say that on the front label ).
Varicose Vein Study
Posted by Nurit (Aberdeen, Sd) on 08/21/2012
Someone recommended Cypress essential oil. I got a free sample. Have seen results on spider veins within a week. Just use a few drop and massage it in twice a day. I also heard it works for varicose veins. It's not that expensive on Ebay, and it really works.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Fredmactavish (Canada) on 12/22/2018
Have you tried cayenne in your diet. It is said that it helps rebuild the innner lining of the stomach as well as help build your stomach acid.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Sonia (San Diego, CA) on 03/16/2009
Congrats!!!
Linseed Oil, Tyrosine and Echinacea
Posted by Joan (New York) on 02/26/2012
It is important to distinguish between linseed oil and flaxseed oil. Although both oils come from the same seed, they are treated differently. Flaxseed oil is raw, cold-pressed linseed oil, and it is often sold as a dietary supplement. Linseed oil is heated and subjected to chemical treatment, and it is not safe to consume. People who use flaxseed oil as a dietary supplement want to take advantage of the rich nutritional value of the oil in raw, cold-pressed form. If you want to eat flaxseed oil, make sure you purchase oil which is clearly marked as "food grade."
General Feedback
Posted by Lynn4 (Maryland) on 12/16/2023
★★★★☆
I had varicose veins and after searching what to do about them I went to a surgeon who dealt with them. After ultrasound and other tests it was determined I had may thurner syndrome. I was born with this and Dr. showed the pictures of them to me in my pelvis. Stents have been put in and doing well - I still wear compression socks though.
Incline Bed Therapy
Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 12/06/2018
Barbara, different strokes for different folks. The raising of the head side of the bed has totally eliminated any swelling in feet. But it's not a steep incline, only 2-3 inches up from the floor.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Kitty (Toronto, Canada) on 04/04/2018
Did anyone have success with vitamin E?
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Arlene (Florida) on 03/08/2024
I just want to add something else about the sclerotherapy that I had about 30 yrs ago. At that time my mother was very concerned about it but me being determined to get rid of spider veins once and for all continued getting the injections. Now with the internet you can do more research but Mom was right. Studies bear out that the solution does travel to the brain and heart and can cause problems. If I knew then what I know now I wouldn't have done it,
Unflavored Gelatin
Posted by Teena (Melbourne, Australia) on 11/18/2017
Dear Marnie,
the reason the gelatin gives you headaches is because it contains free glutamic acid, also known as the neurotoxic excitotoxin MSG. Sorry but this stuff is in everything. Maybe stick to Epsom salts for the leg pain.
Vitamin E, Compression Socks
Posted by Alpha Beta Cowboy (Azusa, Ca) on 01/15/2011
★★★★★
If the Horse Chestnut does not work for varicose veins, try two things:
one, Vitamin E for tissue repair; and two, wear compression hose (in other words, ankle socks or knee-highs) for a few days to a week and see how your legs feel. The compression hose will maximize the circulation from any movement, walking, running that you do. The hose alone will improve circulation and cause your legs to feel lighter and more energetic. The one prohibition is to not wear them at night while you sleep. Put that question to your doctor.
Dried Basil
Posted by Gina (Waxahachie, Texas, Usa) on 09/25/2011
FYI- dried basil isn't just leaves, it's the flower heads also. They are much more pungent. if you use fresh basil medicinally be sure to include some flower heads.
Nattokinase
Posted by Robert (Martinez, CA) on 02/11/2009
★★★★★
An 80 year old healthy male resolved his varicose veins by using nattokinase supplement. Follow directions on the container. I would also recommend citrus bioflavinoids taken as directed on the container. Both are available in capsule form at health stores.
Varicose Vein Study
Posted by Gokhals (Ca) on 08/07/2015 34 posts
★★★★★
Thank you Andrew Fletcher. Inclined my bed three days ago. I am addicted to it. Sleep is way better. There were unsightly lumps of what I thought was fat on my thighs that just disappeared. I have had them for years. I thought they were fat, but obviously, if they disappeared in three days, they are likely related to sluggish lymph. I had silent GERD and would have coughing fits during the night. Gone. My heart does not feel heavy and whooshy. I do not snore any more. A restorative night's sleep has transformed me. You are my hero.
Horse Chestnut and Butchers Broom Herbs
Posted by Sharon (Oregon) on 08/18/2022
★★★★★
I've used Horse Chestnut, either in tablets/capsules or in a topical for at least 30 years. Great results. I couldn't find it, supply chain issues, so I bought Butchers Broom. Within several doses I had HIVES, first time ever! Very sorry it can't be part of my arsenal.
Rutin
Posted by Robin (Belleville, IL) on 05/07/2007
★☆☆☆☆WARNING!
Ladies, remember: do your research before taking rutin during pregnancy. Definitely not during the first 4 months!
Oil Pulling
Posted by Sweet (P.O.S., Trinidad, W.I.) on 04/02/2007
★★★★★
On 1/3/07 I gave feedback on OP & promised an update: Mom changed her daily routine only by adding OP... varicose veins (legs) are noticeably smaller; Aunty Y. is relieved... the intensifying pain in her heel has lessened (no more limping); Navindra, my friend, has been getting rid of mucus effortlessly and gives credit to OP. Others have no definite result to contribute (not yet). In addition to OP, I've been using other remedies from this site, eg. molasses, ACV, etc. I'm incorporating these methods and generally feel healthier. Blessings to all. Sweet
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Sharon (Milwaukee, Wi) on 02/15/2010
Under Varicose Vein Remedies [YEA] 03/21/2007: Amy from Cedar Park, Texas writes and refers to ACV and Coconut Oil. I wanted to know the brand she used, and also to quantity of each (mixing instructions). She makes a reference to specific brands, for specific reasons, and where to buy it.
Thank you so very much.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Marco (Kobe, Japan) on 07/08/2012
I live in Japan and have started using Apple Cider Vinegar. Organic ACV is not locally available, so I found a website that ships cheaply abroad. iherb.com
Rutin
Posted by Sharon (Oregon) on 08/18/2022
A good, tasty source of rutin is buckwheat, whether flour or the grain.
Melatonin Lotion
Posted by Art (California) on 09/09/2025 2943 posts
★★★★★
About seven months ago, a friend told me he was having pain in his legs so he went to the doctor and his doctor told him he had varicose veins and suggested he wear the stockings designed for this purpose. My friend wears shorts very often so he said he didn't really want to wear the stockings and asked if I would suggest something else. I told him, you already have melatonin lotion (ML) that I had given him for a previous issue, so you might as well see if it helps and I asked him to let me know what happens and he said he would.
That was 7 months ago, and after just having made a reply to an EC member with varicose veins last night, I decided to call him to find out if the ML had helped at all since I had no previous feedback on ML for varicose veins. At first he said he didn't know if it had helped or not because he had run out of ML after applying it for about one month and had not made any more. I asked him if he noticed any pain relief while he was using it since he had previously told me his legs were quite painful, and he said, yes, he did notice pain relief. So I asked him how long the pain relief lasted after he stopped using ML and he said, it hasn't come back. That's over 6 month's of being pain free! I was excited with his results, but he was not.
I asked him why he didn't let me know about his great results and he told me because I wasn't sure that it was because of the ML or something else. I then asked him if he had used anything else that was new during the period when he was using ML and he thought about it for quite awhile before saying, no, he hadn't used anything else.
I reminded him that the nature of untreated varicose veins is that they just continue to worsen. I asked him if he thought the pain went away on its own? He said no, I guess it was the melatonin lotion. I suggested that he make a new batch and continue using it since it appeared to be keeping him pain free. He agreed and said he would, but he wasn't even a bit excited about his results.
I'm going to go ahead and call this another win for ML, but there is no science that I am aware of to support that melatonin can help varicose veins and this one instance only shows that it can potentially relieve the pain caused by varicose veins, but given that I have heard how bad that pain can be, I think my friends experience is important and possibly helpful for many others with varicose veins.
I also feel that the fact that the pain did not come back immediately after stopping ML applications and has still not come back after at least 6 months of no ML, suggests to me that there were some potential reparative effects going on in my friends veins? I asked him if he didn't think it was significant that he had had no more pain in his legs for the past 6 months since previously it had been pain everyday to varying degrees? He had to think about it for quite awhile and he finally grudgingly agreed that 6 months of no pain was very significant. I was pretty dumfounded by his responses, but ML appears to be useful for pain caused by varicose veins!
Art
