Horse Chestnut Seed

Aesculus hippocastanum

Horse chestnut seed was traditionally used in the treatment of rheumatism and neuralgia and conditions of venous congestion, particularly with dull, aching pain and fullness. Other major uses include rectal complaints and reflex conditions attributed to rectal involvement (including headache, spasmodic asthma, dizziness, disturbed digestion). Research now suggests the herb as a suitable remedy for lower limb circulatory disorders such as varicose veins.

VENOTONIC - Horsechestnut has a tonic effect on the veins through aiding in contraction, venous pressure and assisting lymphatic valve function. Clinical studies have shown horsechestnut to improve the tone of connective tissue and improve circulation by toning the veins.
VASCULAR PROTECTIVE - Results demonstrate 73% improvement in blood viscosity in the lower extremities after patients received horsechestnut extract. Many studies have shown horsechestnut to significantly improve symptoms of oedema, cramps, pain, fatigue and sensation of heaviness in the lower leg. Research involving thousands of patients with chronic venous insufficiency, receiving standardised horsechestnut extract, experienced dramatic improvements in all lower limb symptoms. Horsechestnut extract was considered an economical, practice-relevant therapeutic tool, which, in comparison with compression stocking therapy, has the additional advantage of better compliance.
ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY - Horsechestnut extract has been shown to demonstrate strong antioxidant activity in vitro against cell damage induced by active oxygen. Protection against lipid per oxidation and the deleterious effects of free radicals have been noted. These additional effects may provide additional long-term benefits for lower limb health and protection.
ANTI-OEDEMA - Escin has been shown to reduce the localised oedema associated with inflammation and acts by reducing capillary permeability to water, thus reducing the 'leakiness' of blood vessels leading to water retention. The use of horsechestnut in reducing oedema in patients is equivalent to that achieved by compression stocking therapy.

Dosage

200mg 1-3 times daily, standardised to contain 18-20 percent aescin. May be used long term within normal dosage range.

Potential applications

Prophylactic use to decrease the incidence of deep vein thrombosis following surgery (DVT). Useful for economy class syndrome (long haul airline travel). Venous insufficiency (especially varicose veins, haemorrhoids), rheumatism, neuralgia and disease states associated with inflammatory congestion e.g. leg ulceration. Also beneficial in disorders of local tissue oedema such as carpal tunnel syndrome, Bell's palsy, dysmenorrhoea, intervertebral disc lesions, soft tissue injuries, swelling and minor surgery.

Known contraindications

Should not be applied to broken or ulcerated skin.

Interactions

As with all saponin-containing herbs, oral use may cause irritation of the gastric mucous membranes and reflux in a few cases. No known drug interactions.

Use in conjunction with

Although effective in isolation, horsechestnut may be used along with other vascular protective agents such as grapeseed/pycnogenol, antioxidants, flax seed oil, quercetin, ester C and hawthorn berry.

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