Spider or varicose veins are veins that swell and become inflamed, causing uncomfortable symptoms such as swelling, pain, cramps, heaviness and tingling, to name but a few. Varicose veins are often located in the legs, especially in the back, and are characterized by a blue or purple hue.
Varicose veins are a direct consequence of the accumulation of blood in the affected channels. You can reduce the pain and inflammation of varicose veins with healthy lifestyle habits, but you can also try natural treatments such as essential oils.
Keep reading this oneHOWTO article to find out what are the best essential oils for varicose veins and circulation.
Peppermint essential oil
Although perhaps it's best known for its expectorant properties, peppermint essential oil is also a good natural remedy for varicose veins and blood circulation problems in the legs. It works by relieving lymphatic congestion, reducing swelling and heaviness and stimulating the flow of blood.
Furthermore, peppermint essential oil is very refreshing and has a very potent analgesic effect. It is ideal for relieving uncomfortable cramps and tingling that varicose veins can cause in the lower extremities. It is also good to relieve restless leg syndrome.
You can buy it in health food stores or natural stores. However, if you prefer, you can make it yourself at home by following the steps shown in this article on How to make peppermint essential oil.
Cypress essential oil
Among the list of essential oils for varicose veins and circulation, the essential oil that provides the best effects along with peppermint is cypress essential oil.
Cypress essential oil stimulates the lymphatic system while it treats inflammation; this helps reduce the overall discomfort that results from poor blood circulation problems, as well as conditions such as fluid retention and cellulite. Cypress essential oil also strengthens the blood vessels, making it ideal for treating smaller spider veins and preventing the formation of new ones.
Rosemary essential oil
Rosemary essential oil is obtained by vaporizing rosemary leaves. This kind of essential oil is highly valued due to its multiple beneficial health properties, including its stimulant and tonic effect, so it is very effective for improving blood circulation and treating dilated and inflamed veins.
In addition, rosemary essential oil acts as an anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce the swelling caused by varicose veins and bad circulation. It is ideal for providing relief when needed, for example after walking or after a long day of work.
Lemon essential oil
Lemon is one of the most consumed fruits in the world, and its essential oil is also one of the best ones for aromatherapy. The benefits of lemon essential oil extend from the physical to the mental, as it boosts the circulatory system health thanks to its invigorating effects.
Furthermore, lemon essential oil is also a blood thinner and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is no wonder, then, that this is one of the best essential oils for varicose veins and circulation. Lemon essential oil has a calming and relaxing effect when applied to skin, so will help to combat the feelings of heaviness in the legs. It's great to unwind and recharge your batteries.
How to use essential oils for varicose veins
Now that your know what are the best essential oils for varicose veins and circulation, you need to find out how to apply them correctly.
Unlike vegetable oils, herbal essential oils are much more concentrated and cannot be applied directly on the skin. Doing so can cause damage and irritation. Ideally, you should dilute a few drops of the essential oil of your choice in a carrier oil, as we explain in more detail below.
To relieve discomfort caused by varicose veins and combat inflammation typical of this condition, perform a lymphatic massage with any of the essential oils mentioned above. Bear in mind the following to do it correctly:
- Mix 200 ml of vegetable oil (olive, sunflower, rosehip or almond oil) with with 12 drops of the essential oil of your choice.
- Rub a small amount between your hands and warm slightly. Then perform the massage in the area with varicose veins. It is best that you work your way from the bottom up, starting, for example, from the ankles and moving up to the thighs. Use circular motions as you do so, massaging well.
- Avoid massaging in the opposite direction as the treatment will be rendered useless.
- In addition, we recommend having these lymphatic massages before going to bed so that the oils can penetrate the skin well during the night.
These are the best essential oils for varicose veins and circulation. If you suffer from tired legs, you should also check out our article on how to treat varicose veins with coconut oil, the best exercises for tired legs and what are the best shoes to prevent varicose veins.
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 The Best Essential Oils for Varicose Veins and Circulation, we recommend you visit our Family health category.