Protocol · Cardiovascular/Vascular Health
Varicose Veins Support Protocol
Horse Chestnut Extract and Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) are the core of this stack, with 5 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Varicose Veins Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
7 supplements · 1 graded
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Horse Chestnut Extract | Amount listed: 300 mg standardized extract (50 mg aescin) twice daily | Aescin reduces capillary permeability and inflammation; strengthens vein walls | Not graded yet | ||
| Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) | Amount listed: 60–120 mg total triterpenic fraction daily | Triterpenoids improve venous tone and microcirculation; reduce edema
| Grade B for Chronic Venous Insufficiency Signs5 studies · 97 people | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Grape Seed Extract | Amount listed: 150–300 mg daily | Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) strengthen capillaries and reduce leakage | Not graded yet | ||
| Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract) | Amount listed: 100–200 mg daily | OPCs improve venous function; reduce leg swelling and heaviness | Not graded yet | ||
| Diosmin/Hesperidin (MPFF) | Amount listed: 500 mg diosmin + 50 mg hesperidin twice daily | Flavonoids improve venous tone, lymphatic drainage, and microcirculation | Not graded yet | ||
| Butcher's Broom | Amount listed: 150 mg standardized extract twice daily | Ruscogenins have venotonic and anti-inflammatory effects | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg daily | Essential for collagen synthesis; strengthens vein walls | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
The supplement in this protocol graded A or B. Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade B
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually appear in the legs. They occur when valves in the veins don't work properly, causing blood to pool and veins to bulge.
HOW THEY FORM:
- Valves in leg veins help blood flow upward
- When valves weaken, blood flows backward (reflux)
- Blood pools in the vein, causing it to stretch
- Over time, the vein becomes visible and bulging
RISK FACTORS:
- Age (valves weaken over time)
- Family history
- Female sex (hormonal factors)
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Obesity
- Lack of movement
SYMPTOMS:
- Visible twisted, bulging veins
- Aching or heavy feeling in legs
- Burning, throbbing, cramping
- Itching around veins
- Skin changes (discoloration)
- Swelling in lower legs
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR:
- Pain or discomfort affecting daily life
- Skin changes or sores
- Bleeding from varicose vein
- Signs of blood clot (sudden swelling, warmth, redness)
LIFESTYLE MEASURES:
- Exercise regularly (walking improves calf muscle pump)
- Elevate legs when resting
- Avoid prolonged standing/sitting
- Wear compression stockings
- Maintain healthy weight
- Avoid high heels for long periods
MEDICAL TREATMENTS:
- Compression therapy (first-line)
- Sclerotherapy (injection to close veins)
- Endovenous laser/radiofrequency ablation
- Vein stripping (surgical removal)
Horse chestnut and diosmin* have the strongest evidence.
Gotu kola, grape seed, pycnogenol* support vein health.
Venotonics* improve symptoms but don't eliminate veins.
Expected timeline: Supplements may improve symptoms (swelling, heaviness) within 2-4 weeks. They support vein health but don't reverse existing varicose veins.