Homoeopathic Remedies for Varicose Veins
When valves inside the veins are weak or absent, or return of blood from congested areas is
inefficient, veins may become enlarged and swollen—and aching, itching, tenderness, and
muscle cramping may occur. Varicose veins are most often seen in the legs, although they also
occur in other areas. Haemorrhoids are varicose veins in the rectum; varicose veins in the
legs and vulva often develop during pregnancy. Homoeopathic remedies often help to relieve
discomfort that comes with varicose veins, and may help to prevent their worsening.
Individuals with serious cases may benefit from a constitutional remedy, prescribed by an
experienced homoeopath.
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also
“Using Homoeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homoeopathy?
Arnica montana: When this remedy is indicated, the legs look bruised, or black and
blue, and the swollen veins are very sore to touch. The legs feel deeply sore all over and are
also worse from motion. Lying down may bring relief.
Calcarea carbonica: Varicose veins that hurt while the person is standing or walking
may respond to this remedy. People who need this remedy often have poor circulation, with
clammy hands and feet, and a general feeling of chilliness. They may have weak or flabby
muscles, and be easily tired by exertion. Weight problems, cravings for sweets and eggs, and a
tendency to feel anxious or overwhelmed when overworked are other indications for this
remedy.
Carbo vegetabilis: Poor circulation with icy coldness of the extremities, and
mottled skin with distended veins and a bruised or “marbled” look, may indicate a
need for this remedy. The person’s legs feel weak and heavy, and often itch and burn.
Poor digestion, a feeling of faintness, and a craving for fresh or moving air are strong
indications for Carbo vegetabilis. This remedy is often indicated for older people,
or those who are slow to recover from an illness.
Hamamelis: This remedy can help when varicose veins are large and sore, and very
weak and easily damaged, with a tendency to bleed. Pain is sore and bruiselike, and the legs
look bruised and purple. A stinging feeling may be felt in the irritated veins. The muscles of
the legs feel tired and are often cold. People who need this remedy may also develop varicose
veins in the genital area or have a tendency toward bleeding haemorrhoids.
Lycopodium: When this remedy is indicated, drawing or tearing pains are felt in the
legs, sometimes with a numb sensation. Symptoms are worse when the person is keeping still,
and the legs may cramp at night in bed. People who need this remedy may have a worried facial
expression along with digestive problems, sluggish liver function, and poor circulation.
Pulsatilla: Swollen veins in the legs, and sometimes even in the arms and hands,
suggest a need for this remedy. Varicose veins in the legs feel hot and painful at night, with
heaviness and weariness. Symptoms are worse when the legs are hanging down without support,
and worse from warmth. Cold applications, motion, and cool fresh air may help.
Pulsatilla is often helpful for varicose veins that develop during pregnancy.
Zincum metallicum: When this remedy is needed, the legs are fidgety and restless,
with weakness in the muscles, crawling sensations, and a tendency to twitch. Large varicose
veins may develop, with pain and soreness that are worse from touch. The person may feel worse
from alcohol, especially wine.
Homoeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where
self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,
6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually
printed on the label.
Many homoeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and
wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If
improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The
frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be
required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and
in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homoeopathy? and Understanding Homoeopathic Potencies.
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only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
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making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.