Horse chestnut plant
The use of horse chestnut seed extract (HCSE) for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is common in Europe. The scientific name for horse chestnut is Aesculus hippocastanum L. The effects of CVI may include leg swelling, edema, varicose veins and itching. The use of HCSE is not advised for people with diabetes, hepatic or renal problems or for children.
How It Works
HCSE contains aescin or saponins which act as anti-inflammatory agents. This occurs because of the vasoconstricting action of prostaglandins which reduces the permeability of the veins. This increases the tone of the venous wall.
Oother active components of HCSE are beneficial to the circulatory system. These include flavonoids which help to limit enzyme release which is greater in CVI. The coumarins present in HSCE may increase bleeding time.
Uses and Administration
HCSE is often used for CVI and other circulatory disorders such as phlebitis. The addition of compression bandages has been found helpful. HCSE does not reverse the effects of varicose veins. It is usually administered as a single oral dose. The effects may appear within an hour and the HCSE may remain in the system for up to 20 hours.
Risks and Warnings
The FDA has not approved HCSE and considers some components to be toxic. Users should be alert to symptoms of gastrointestinal tract distress such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. If an overdose is administered there is a potential for toxicity or poisoning which may manifest with dilated pupils and muscle twitching. Patients should be aware of an increased anticoagulant effect.
Research
M.H. Pittler and E. Ernst conducted a digital literature review of the effectiveness of HCSE in CVI patients. They found that in randomly controlled studies, using a double-blind approach, HCSE did reduce swelling. These studies referenced the effectiveness of HCSE against a standard prescription medicine, O-(beta-hydroxyethyl)-rutosides. This finding confirmed their support of HCSE for symptom relief from CVI.
Availability
HCSE is considered to be a nutritional supplement and is regulated as such. Consumers should look for standardized doses containing 50 mg of aescin. The product should not contain aesculin as it may act as a blood thinning agent.
Tags: effectiveness HCSE, varicose veins