Varicose veins is a term describing twisted, swollen and bulging veins that usually appear on the legs. They are almost always an aesthetical problem, except in some cases when they indicate some kind of cardiovascular disease. They differ from spider veins, a condition which occurs due to high blood pressure and makes the veins close to the skin’s surface visible.
As you already know, the veins are blood vessels that have the role of circulating blood back to the heart. The leg veins travel upward the body, with the blood travelling backwards.
Over time and due to a variety of factors, the blood can get stuck in the veins, causing increased pressure and swelling, which usually occurs after standing or sitting for a prolonged period.
Other risk factors for varicose veins are obesity, age, pregnancy, genetics, hormonal imbalance, constipation, poor diet, etc. Although mostly an aesthetic problem, the condition may cause pain and tingling in the legs accompanied by a kind of heaviness. They affect women more often than men, and everyone wants to get rid of them ASAP due to their unsightly appearance.
The usual treatment for varicose veins includes wearing compression stockings or some medications, but you should know that there are many natural remedies which can help. Today we’re going to talk about the best – apple cider vinegar.
How does ACV treat varicose veins?
Here are the 3 ways in which ACV can reduce the appearance of varicose veins:
1. Consumption
Mix a teaspoon of honey with 2 tablespoons ACV and a cup of water, then drink the solution immediately. Regular consumption of this drink will reduce the appearance of varicose veins and treat the underlying problem. For best results, we suggest drinking one cup of the mixture in the morning and another in the evening.
2. Topical application
Topical application of ACV directly on the veins is the simplest way of getting rid of them. Just soak a cotton pad in the liquid and rub it on the veins, then secure with a plastic band or tape and leave it to work for half an hour. Repeat the process regularly until the veins disappear.
You can also try an ACV massage – simple rub a bit of the liquid on the veins and start massaging lightly. This process works best before a shower and will reduce the appearance of the veins quickly.
Soaking your feet in a mixture of ACV, water and salt is a great option as well. Soak for 20-30 minutes and the veins should start disappearing after a few tries.
Finally, you can also soak a towel in ACV and wrap it on your legs, then leave it to work for 30 minutes before rinsing the area with water.
3. Apple cider vinegar, Aloe Vera gel and carrots
Chop half a carrot and mix it with 3 tablespoons Aloe gel in a blender, then add ½ cup of ACV and mix again. Apply the mixture on your veins and leave it to work its magic for half an hour, then repeat the process every day until the veins disappear.
Precautions
Although these treatments are effective, you should visit a doctor if the veins don’t disappear after a few weeks. ACV is pretty harsh on sensitive skin – if you’re using it for the first time, do a test on a small patch of skin before using the remedies. Always use organic ACV if you want to achieve the best results.
In order to prevent varicose veins, you should reduce your weight and stay physically active. Don’t stand or sit for too long, as the inactivity will make the blood accumulate in your veins. Wear compressive stockings and eat a healthy diet, and try the aforementioned remedies to resolve the problem.
