How to Cure Phlebitis with Home Remedies

The main cause of phlebitis is the formation of a blood clot, which causes inflammation of the affected vein. Besides this, it generates symptoms such as pain, numbness, extreme sensitivity, redness, burning sensation, and even fever in some cases. Given this situation, it is essential that you go to the doctor so appropriate treatment can be initiated because this will be established according to the severity of symptoms and the patient's condition.

There are certain factors and conditions that can greatly increase the chances of developing phlebitis, among which are the following:

• Genetic factors, because there are people who have a greater tendency to suffer from blood clots.
• Being immobile for long periods of time, whether from lying down or resting after an operation, to many hours sitting in an airplane, etc.
• Too many toxins in the blood, affecting the blood by making it more viscous and thick, thus causing possible circulatory problems.
• Dehydration or malnutrition.
• Strokes or traumatic injuries.
• Other conditions and diseases, such as a previous injury in a vein, suffering from some form of cancer, suffering from a deterioration of varicose veins, etc.
• Being overweight

Pregnant women, women who have just given birth and women taking oral contraceptives are at an increased risk of phlebitis, as well as people aged over 60 years.

When phlebitis has occurred in a superficial vein and does not pose serious complications, one of the main recommendations is the application of heat and cold by alternating both temperatures. This simple treatment is excellent for trying to reduce swelling in the affected area and to promote relaxation. We recommend that you apply moist compresses of hot and cold water for about 10 minutes, by alternating them with each other so you can notice any improvement. Avoid placing ice directly on the skin so as to avoid burns and try to keep the leg slightly elevated, so this also contributes to good blood circulation.

In the same way, taking a hot bath can also be a good alternative for reducing inflammation and give relief.

In the amazing world of herbal medicine, you can find good natural allies to improve blood circulation and relieve symptoms caused by phlebitis. Among them, arnica is a floral plant which is native to America and Europe and is highly prized due to its powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has a powerful rubefacient effect which means it helps to reactivate the blood flow. Therefore, it is an excellent remedy for this condition and to help combat pain and numbness.

In this case, we recommend using arnica oil, which is available in health food shops or speciality shops selling natural products. Apply it on the area by gently massaging it towards the heart. Before using it, it is important you ensure that there is no injury or open wound on the skin, as it isn't advisable in such circumstances. Other oils which are also good for stimulating circulation and can be used in the same way include rosehip oil and sesame oil.

Another one of the most effective medicinal plants for phlebitis and other circulatory problems is Ginkgo Biloba. The reason is that it has a high content of flavonoids and antioxidants which improve blood circulation and help to prevent clotting by greatly protecting vascular walls.

To take advantage of all these benefits, it is best to prepare an infusion by adding a handful of dried gingko biloba leaves to a cup of boiling water. Leave it to stand about 5 or 10 minutes, strain it and then it will be ready to drink. It is not advisable to consume more than 2 cups a day.

Note that its intake is contraindicated in:

• Pregnant and lactating women
• Patients who are taking anticoagulant medication
• Patients with ulcers or large wounds
• Women with heavy periods
• People with epilepsy
• People following a specific drug treatment

If in doubt, consult your doctor beforehand.

When we talk about curing phlebitis with home remedies, horsetail is also worth mentioning. This is a plant with many benefits for the human body and is mainly notable for its anti-inflammatory action and being excellent for cardiovascular health. Among other things, it prevents hardening of the arteries and improves blood circulation.

You can consume it as an infusion by drinking 1 or 2 cups a day, or add this same preparation to your bathwater then take a relaxing bath with horsetail for about 20 minutes.

If you choose to drink it, you should know that is contraindicated in some specific cases:

• Pregnant and lactating women
• Patients with gastric ulcers
• People with heart or kidney failure
• People with low potassium levels, cardiac problems, low blood pressure or diabetes
• Patients taking anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin or diuretics

Blueberries have vasodilating properties and flavonoids, which are a perfect combination for treating conditions related to poor circulation such as phlebitis, varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, etc. Moreover, they also have anti-inflammatory properties so will reduce swelling in the damaged area faster.

A great way to have these small berries is to prepare a natural juice containing them.

In addition to these natural remedies for phlebitis, it is essential you adopt a series of measures and healthy habits to help you overcome this condition and improve your cardiovascular health:

• Stay well hydrated by drinking at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day.
• Look after your diet by including ingredients that facilitate the function of blood vessels, such as foods rich in fibre, potassium, antioxidants and essential fatty acids.
• What's more, avoid eating foods high in trans or saturated fats, alcohol and tobacco, if possible.
• Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight and affect good circulation in the legs, abdomen, etc.
• Rest with the affected area slightly elevated to increase blood flow.
• It is advisable to do a little exercise by simply going for a walk for a few minutes every day.

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to How to Cure Phlebitis with Home Remedies, we recommend you visit our Diseases & secondary effects category.