A balanced diet and regular exercise are key to improving blood circulation: the process by which blood carries oxygen, nutrients and other substances from the heart to cells, tissues and organs. The US National Cancer Institute points this out.
In order to prevent circulatory problems, in addition to a balanced diet, it is important to avoid a lack of exercise, overweight or obesity and to lead a lifestyle that prevents diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels in the blood.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, health problems can arise when the body does not have good blood flow, such as: B. Varicose veins, which swell and expand and often cause pain, heaviness and discomfort in the legs.
In addition to self-care through food, there are a number of natural remedies you can include in your diet to improve your condition. One of these is the horse chestnut herb.
Horse chestnut to improve blood circulation
Several studies confirm that the seeds and bark of horse chestnut have anti-inflammatory properties and help maintain adequate blood circulation in the veins and arteries. “It is a natural element that helps regulate varicose veins, hemorrhoids and tired legs. This is all thanks to its ability to stimulate blood circulation and oxygenation.“, says Valeria Sabater, specialist in nutrition and obesity to control excess weight.
Horse chestnut is a plant with venotonic, vascular protective, analgesic and diuretic effects.
Its seeds contain aescin, a component that improves blood circulation and vein tension, causing the elastic fibers of the vein walls to contract more and become less fragile.
In addition, it promotes normal blood viscosity and helps to relax the vein walls, which is useful for preventing the formation of new varicose veins or so-called “spider veins”.
Horse chestnut is useful in relieving leg swelling, leg cramps, and pain and heaviness in the lower limbs, among other benefits. It has an anti-inflammatory effect because it inhibits the enzyme prostaglandin synthetase and also increases the resistance of the blood capillaries.
As a diuretic plant, it promotes the excretion of fluid through urine and at the same time prevents the formation of edema in the lower limbs. As if that wasn't enough, consuming them also helps relieve tingling.
How to take advantage of the benefits of horse chestnut?
One way to use the medicinal properties of this plant to improve blood circulation is to prepare a decoction that requires:
- A teaspoon of horse chestnut peel or seeds.
- A glass of water.
Preparation:
Bring water to a boil in a container.
When the boiling point is reached, add the plant.
Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Then remove from the heat, filter and sweeten a little if necessary to improve the taste.
The recommended dose is two cups of horse chestnut tea per day to prevent or treat varicose veins and relieve leg discomfort.
How can you prevent varicose veins and improve blood circulation?
Experts share some tips you can follow to prevent varicose veins and improve blood circulation:
- Avoid high heels and tight socks.
- Change your position from time to time, whether you're sitting or standing.
- Eat a diet high in fiber and low in salt.
- Practice.
- Raise your legs slightly while sitting or lying down.
- Control your weight.
If you have any questions about improving blood circulation in your legs, consult a specialized professional.
With information from: