Question:
Has anyone treated vericose veins with success using herbs or homeopathy? I have heard of using Gotu Kola or hawthorn, ginkgo, cayenne, butcher's broom, and bilberry--basically herbs that improve circulation. I would appreciate any info.

Answer: -The varicose veins are physically messed-up: the walls are too thin and have ballooned out beyond the muscles that line the veins in places, creating the nodular appearance. "Improving circulation" doesn't have a thing to do with it - it's like trhing to patch a balooned-out hose by helping the water flow faster. Elevating the feet, making sure pressure on the legs isn't happening accidentally (the back of a badly-fitting chair, for one), etc. will keep them from getting larger, but it's a surgical fix, like any hernia. The good news ... the surgery is less invasive than before, and many of the small veins can be zapped in an office visit by lasers. -My husband has Varicose Veins and when they flare up we apply compresses of Witch Hazel to calm them down. Also we alternate between HorseChestnut Extract and Ginko Biloba to keep the circulation free and clear. To help de-toxify the liver I recommend Dandelion and Milk Thistle. It change reverse the damage done to it by cirrhosis and Hep C. Another great de-toxifier is Burdock( Great Burdock) and Myrrh in combination. Alwyas research your herbs for possible side-effects before embarking on the road to health. -The surgery my sister has gotten twice, though does not prevent them from reoccuring. Probably needs to look into getting a different doctor as well, I imagine.