healing blood vessel diseases naturally

Varicose veins, stasis dermatitis, leg ulcers, vasculitis, diabetic retinopathy, and cherry spots (hemangiomas) are some of the many blood vessel diseases thought to be the result of heredity or free radical damage. Evidence suggests that they can be improved or prevented with use of complementary medicine.

With respect to diet, eat a low sugar, low fat, high complex carbohydrate, high fiber diet. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and a high sugar or fat intake. High fiber foods ensure that the large bowel remains relatively clear of excessive waste material thereby reducing pressure on large pelvic veins thought to worsen varicose veins.

Psyllium seed, milled flax seed, fruit pectin, guar gum and oat bran all reduce the potential toxins in the gastrointestinal tract. Carrots, celery, spinach, parsley, beets and cucumbers are good sources of natural antioxidants that protect arteries, veins and capillaries. Other green foods, whole grains, legumes and fruits are high in powerful free radical scavenging bioflavonoids, vitamin C and vitamin E.

 

Pycnogenols are a family of antioxidant bioflavonoids derived from pine tree bark, berries, grape seed and other colourful plants. They have 50 times stronger antioxidant activity than vitamin E and 20 times stronger than vitamin C. They are effective against all blood vessel problems as well as water retention, inflammatory conditions, allergies and arthritis.

Other effective nutritional supplements for blood vessel damage are aloe vera juice, B complex vitamins, calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc and silica gel.

Some herbalists and homeopaths have claimed both preventive and therapeutic successes with varverry, chamomile, curcumin, hawthorn berries, white oak bark, witch hazel and calendula.

Witch hazel and calendula in particular are effective when applied topically to soothe inflamation in any blood vessel. These herbs can improve circulation and prevent the build-up of toxins responsible for tissue damage.

For a personalized program of diet and supplements, see your natural health care practitioner.