Varicose Veins

VARICOSE VEINS

Veins have thinner walls than arteries and have valves which are arranged to permit the upward flow of the blood back to the heart. Factors such as bad circulation and prolonged standing may cause blood to accumulate in the veins of the legs, causing the vein to stretch, which in turn will result in the cusps of the valves not meeting, thus leading to varicose veins. Varicose veins are distended veins occurring frequently in the rectum wall but more commonly in the legs.

Although this condition may be hereditary, the main causes are prolonged standing, constipation, lack of exercise, poor nutrition, and obesity. Often the cause is a combination of two or more conditions. Pregnancy is another contributing factor due to the increased weight and pressure in the pelvic area. Aromatherapy oils strengthen as well as improve the general tone of the veins but should be combined with nutrition and exercise.

Suggested essential oils: Cypress, fennel, grapefruit, juniper, lemon, cedarwood, dill weed, lavender, chamomile (Roman), geranium, rose geranium.