Varicose veins occur when the veins become swollen or twisted and are unable to effectively deliver blood to the heart. The result is pain in places where the twisted veins are located, as well as unsightly lumps and discoloration from protruding veins. When you first notice varicose veins appearing, you should consult your doctor to ensure that they are not indicative of more serious blockages known as deep vein thrombosis. If that is not the case, you may be interested in the many natural options available for treating varicose veins, three of which are listed below.

1. Increase Your Intake of Flavonoids

Flavonoids are the pigments found in herbs and plants, and they have proven to aid the circulatory system and strengthen capillaries. Including more flavonoid-rich foods and herbs in your diet can help improve varicose veins. Some foods and herbs known to contain a high amount of flavonoids include cherries, blackberries, bell peppers, apples, asparagus, gingko, calendula, and hawthorn. When using herbs, you can either take herbal supplements or use the bulk herb to make tea. 

2. Include Apple Cider Vinegar in Your Skincare and Diet

Apple cider vinegar has become very popular in recent years for a myriad of uses. In addition to helping with weight loss and cleaning projects, apple cider vinegar is also a natural body cleansing product, known for improving blood flow and circulation, which will decrease the swelling associated with varicose veins. There are two different ways to use apple cider vinegar for treating varicose veins. It can be applied directly to the skin twice a day or mixed with water and drunk twice a day. Drinking the mixture leads to faster results (about one month), but if you can't handle the taste, massaging the skin with apple cider vinegar will yield results in two to three months. 

3. Get More Exercise

Exercise has proven to be very effective in treating varicose veins. However, certain exercises are better than others for treating this particular ailment. Short-impact exercises, such as skiing, boxing, and running, can put more pressure on the veins, making varicose veins worse. Decrease these exercises, and replace them with equally beneficial exercises, such as swimming, fast-paced walking, and yoga. You can still maintain a healthy weight with these exercises, but the impact on your body will decrease significantly.

Varicose veins can be painful and unsightly, but there are many helpful treatment methods out there. While there are plentiful natural remedies, some medical professionals also offer varicose vein treatment. It may be a good idea to research different options to find the best solution for you.