Spider veins refer to tiny veins, found close to the surface of the skin and create spider web formations. They are also known as angioectasias or telangiectasias and look similar to varicose veins but smaller. If you notice such visible formations on the surface of your skin, stay calm. This is a fairly common condition that affects nearly half of the population at a certain point in life.
The condition itself is not dangerous; however, it may cause discomfort. It can be unpleasant to the eyes and often makes people lose confidence in showing off their skin. Spider veins also result in itching and burning sensations. They are most often located on the legs but can also develop on other body parts such as arms and face.
There are numerous causes of this condition, including:
- obesity
- prolonged standing – often linked to the profession of the affected person
- genetics
- contraceptive pills
- blood circulation problems or history of blood clots
- hormonal changes – common during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause
If you have to deal with spider veins, you probably want to know how to get rid of them or reduce their appearance. Some people prefer to consult doctors for prescribed medications while others prefer natural remedies. Either way, spider veins can be treated, and you will find out how.
11 Best Home Remedies For Spider Veins
Tired of seeing your veins in web formations? Continue reading and discover the top home remedies for spider veins. Apply one or two of these treatments and say goodbye to spider veins.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is the champion of home remedies for numerous health and skin conditions including spider veins. External application of the vinegar is capable of eliminating the web formations and its symptoms. Furthermore, its internal application helps in reducing the inflammation of veins.
- Purchase raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar.
- Dip a piece of clean cloth into the vinegar and wrap it around the affected area. If your skin is sensitive, make sure you dilute the vinegar with an equal amount of water beforehand.
- Leave it on for around 30 minutes.
- Remove it and rinse your skin with lukewarm water.
- Repeat the treatment up to 3 times per day.
Additionally, you are also advised to apply apple cider vinegar internally. To do so, mix a tablespoon of the vinegar in a cup of warm water. You can also add 1 – 2 tablespoons of honey for better performance of the treatment. Drink the solution once to twice per day.
Within only a few months of application, you will start seeing the results. Be patient with the treatment and your skin will get an entirely new look.
2. Witch Hazel
When talking about home remedies for spider veins, witch hazel should always be included in the list. Thanks to its tannin and volatile compounds, this herb can strengthen the blood vessels. By doing so, the bulging veins will diminish.
Witch hazel also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and is also capable of tightening swollen veins.
- Soak half a cup of witch hazel leaves in a cup of boiling water.
- Cover it and let it cool down.
- Strain the solution and apply it on the spider veins.
- Leave it on for at least 20 minutes. You don’t have to rinse the affected area afterward.
- Repeat this process two times per day.
Alternatively, you can use witch hazel extract. Simply spread a few drops of the extract on the affected areas and let it dry there.
3. Massage
Regular massaging of the affected areas will not only help you relax but will also improve your blood circulation. Improved blood flow will help you reduce the pain and inflammation. Improve the condition of your skin with one of the coolest home remedies for spider veins – massage.
- Use extra-virgin coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil for this treatment.
- Heat up the oil until it is pleasantly warm.
- Apply the oil on the affected parts of the body and spread it well.
- Massage for around 15 minutes. Your strokes should be gentle yet firm enough to encourage blood circulation.
- Repeat this soothing treatment up to 5 times per day to achieve desired results.
4. Arnica
Arnica is a popular herb used to treat dozens of health conditions. It is rich in compounds that are capable of treating spider veins and relieving its symptoms. Say goodbye to swelling, pain, and inflammation with this effective home remedy.
- Apply an arnica cream or gel on the spider veins multiple times per day.
- Spread it well and massage it into the skin.
- Leave the cream or gel on without washing the affected areas afterward.
Additionally, you can take arnica-based pills with the purpose of internal spider veins treatment. Consult with your doctor about this possibility.
5. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is yet another one of the home remedies for spider veins. It helps by improving blood circulation. Capsaicin, the compound found in cayenne pepper promotes blood flow and eases pain from the swollen veins.
It is suggested to add more cayenne pepper in your daily meals. Simply add it to your favorite dishes. You can also make a beverage out of it.
- Mix ½ – 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder with a cup of warm water.
- Stir well and drink the mixture before cayenne pepper settles at the bottom.
- Drink this beverage twice per day. If you are a pregnant woman or in the process of breastfeeding, avoid this treatment.
Additionally, you can purchase a capsaicin cream and apply it on the affected areas.
6. Ginger
Ginger is rich in valuable properties that improve blood flow and enhance regeneration. It is also capable of breaking up blood protein fibrin which gathers around injured veins. Ginger is generally healthy and beneficial so consider eating it for other purposes as well. Nevertheless, if you are taking blood pressure regulation pills, consult your doctor before applying this treatment.
- Grate a 1-inch ginger root into small pieces.
- Mix it in a cup of boiling water.
- Simmer it for approximately 15 minutes.
- Strain the solution and drink it warm.
- Drink ginger beverage up to 3 times per day.
7. Horse Chestnut
This wonderful herb makes it to the top of home remedies for spider veins due to its ability to strengthen the veins and provide relief from discomfort related to vein issues. Horse chestnut is rich in anti-swelling and anti-inflammatory properties which make it very useful.
Method 1: Purchase the gel made of horse chestnut seeds and apply it on the affected areas. Repeat this process twice per day. You can also add in a gentle massage.
Method 2: Mix 5 tablespoons of distilled witch hazel with a tablespoon of horse chestnut tincture. Apply the mixture on the spider veins up to three times per day.
Method 3: Consult your doctor to prescribe you the correct dosage of horse chestnut supplements.
This treatment should be avoided by nursing or pregnant women and people with liver or kidney disease. If you are taking blood-thinning medications, avoid this treatment as well and apply other remedies.
8. Exercise
Another way to effectively boost your blood circulation is to exercise. Regular exercise will also help you strengthen your body and veins. Furthermore, exercising will help you stay in good shape and avoid obesity which can lead to venous problems.
There are many exercises to choose from. One of the most common exercises is walking. Simply walk around for at least 30 minutes per day on a daily basis. Additionally, walk for a few minutes every few hours to avoid your body from becoming stiff.
Adding other activities such as jogging, hiking, and swimming to your daily routine is also very beneficial.
9. Ginkgo Biloba
This prehistoric plant is capable of improving blood circulation and strengthening the walls of the veins, making it one of the best home remedies for spider veins. It opens up the blood vessels and makes blood less sticky for better flow. Ginkgo biloba is also rich in antioxidants that can improve the overall condition of veins.
To perform this treatment, simply purchase ginkgo biloba extract. Proceed with the treatment by taking 40 milligrams of the extract three times per day or check the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
10. Butcher’s broom
Butcher’s broom, also known as ruscus aculeatus, is an evergreen shrub with numerous medical uses. It became a popular natural remedy for circulatory diseases, as it boosts blood circulation. Butcher’s broom is also an effective anti-inflammatory agent and is used in numerous products for treating spider veins.
You can consume butcher’s broom by taking supplements. Consult your doctor to get a prescription for butcher’s broom supplements and the correct dosages.
11. Elevation
Elevation is another excellent remedy for spider veins that costs you nothing at all. It helps by relieving the pressure in the veins and improving blood circulation.
If your legs are affected by spider veins, elevate them several times per day. You can do so by placing a pillow or blanket underneath the legs. Elevate them for around 10 minutes at a time. If the affected parts are on hands, then do the same as with legs but raise hands instead.
Additionally, if you have spider veins on your face, slightly raise your head during sleep. Place an extra pillow under your head to raise it above the rest of the body.
Spider veins may not present serious issues, but they cause discomfort nevertheless. As with all conditions, it is best to treat it as soon as it starts occurring. Keep in mind that curing spider veins takes time. While there is no instant cure, the home remedies for spider veins presented in this article will gradually help you deal with the problem. Be patient, stick to your treatments, and you’ll end up with healthy veins.