The horse chestnut is one plant you would want to try out. The tree is indigenous to the Balkan Peninsula but can also be found in so many places across the northern part of the world. For centuries, its leaves, bark, blossoms, and seeds have been used in treating a range of health conditions. For instance, the seed of the horse chestnut reduces inflammation and treats vascular issues. The tea gotten from this plant is often used as an alternative medication in eliminating kidney stones, alleviating stomach upset, and treating the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Additionally, horse chestnut is mainly effective in treating vascular issues where the veins are unable to take back blood from the legs to the heart.
The plant contains a compound called aescin that has some proven health benefits. According to some studies, aescin prevents swelling and systemic redness without suppressing the body’s immunity. Also, horse chestnut is made up of very potent antioxidant effects and so is very effective in destroying free radicals. That’s not all; aescin is a saponin that is incorporated into natural soap products.
So, let’s check out the many health benefits of the horse chestnut.
Improves Vein Health
Some studies have suggested that horse chestnut has an effect on compression socks and helps in contracting veins and arteries as well. In fact, people use the extract of the seeds of horse chestnut to treat serious venous insufficiency. As a matter of fact, the compound aescin that is present in the extract is effective as a compression therapy for curing edema, hemorrhoids, and serious venous insufficiency. It is believed that the extract of the horse chestnut seeds can inhibit the breakdown of proteins in the walls of the capillaries.
Combats Cancer
One major health benefit of horse chestnut is its effectiveness in combating cancer. The plant destroys cancer cells and reduces tumors in some cases. Nonetheless, more studies are required to ascertain the claims and safety of this using the herb in the treatment of cancer. For fast results, simply take horse chestnut tea or capsules to fight cancer.
Treats Varicose Veins
According to research, the extract of the horse chestnut can be effective in treating varicose veins, even when used in the short term. You only need to consume horse chestnut seeds or simply get its gel in a drugstore.
Treats Rheumatoid Arthritis
Did you know that a lot of massage products utilized by athletes contain horse chestnut extract and are used in the treatment of joint or muscular pain, especially after workouts? The extract of the horse chestnut is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties. And so, it is often used in the treatment of pains, sprains, and arthritic aches. For treating rheumatoid arthritis, simply mix one tablespoon of the horse chestnut oil in half tablespoon of olive oil and apply the mixture to the affected spot twice daily.
Treats Heavy Legs
For people who frequently suffer tired and heavy legs, horse chestnut oil might prove very helpful in offering some relief. Simply massage the legs with the oil and wrap the leg with a blanket for about 20 minutes. Additionally, horse chestnut oil can be mixed with little drops of grapeseed extract and applied on the legs.
Treats Hemorrhoids
According to some studies, horse chestnut supplements may also be helpful in curbing the complications of hemorrhoids. Simply take horse chestnut tea or capsules to get the desired results.
Has Anti-Aging Properties
Due to its antioxidant effect, horse chestnut is an amazing anti-aging toner. This is as a result of the actions of the horse chestnut extract in promoting blood circulation. The herb extract also helps in strengthening and toning fragile capillaries and veins. In fact, horse chestnut is one of the ingredients used in producing a host of high-quality lotions and creams that reduce the appearance of cellulite, wrinkles, and fine line.
Also, it is incorporated into many skin toning, firming, slimming products. So, to get a glowing and healthy skin, you only need to mix about 10 drops of the horse chestnut extract with some vitamin E oil. Alternatively, you can also add the extract to your facial moisturizer and apply on the affected areas before bedtime.
Treats Inflamed Nerves
The compound known as aescin found in horse chestnut is potent in inducing blood circulation and causing some relief for the inflamed nerves around the wrist. Horse chestnut can be taken orally or applied topically.
Gets Rid of Rosacea
For those with vascular issues, the extract of the horse chestnut can be very effective in providing fast relief. In fact, the extract of the herb also helps in relieving inflammations in the body. Also, the extract can be useful in reducing inflammation resulting from rosacea as it reduces the chances of the blood vessels developing. To eliminate rosacea, simply apply a topical cream that contains extracts of the horse chestnut.
Precaution and Side Effects
While several studies have proven that the aescin in horse chestnut helps in the treatment of leg vein issues, always consult with a healthcare professional before using the herb to treat any venous disease.
Also, before using horse chestnut seeds, ensure that they have been properly processed. This is because the seeds contain the poison called esculetin which can trigger nausea, paralysis, headache, and coma.
However, when prepared right, the horse chestnut has just few side effects. Sometimes, the purified extract of the herb can still result in stomach aches, headaches, chronic skin rash, and dizziness.
