Grape seed and pine bark extracts can be used in varicose veins treatment. Varicose veins are the result of the enlargement of veins and may have a wide range of causes including obesity, diet, lack of exercise or hereditary factors. There are conventional and alternative treatment options to reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Grape Seed Extracts
The grape seeds extracts contain a number of essential substances that are beneficial for patients with varicose veins:
- Vitamin E, which can improve the elasticity of veins
- Flavonoids, which can improve blood flow
- Linoileic acid
- Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), which are antioxidants that reduce swelling and strengthen connective tissues
The grape seed extracts also reduce cholesterol, which can contribute to the enlargement of the veins.
Pine Bark Extracts
The pine bark extracts are obtained from the Pinus maritime tree. The extracts contain oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), a healthy antioxidant that is essential for connective tissues. OPC are also well known anti inflammatories.
Grape Seed and Pine Bark Extracts for Varicose Veins
The grape seed and pine bark extracts are often combined to offer relief to patients with varicose veins. Combined, the extracts can improve blood circulation, improve the strength and elasticity of the veins, reduce cholesterol and prevent obesity.
The extracts can be applied locally, providing temporary pain relief, but when administered orally, the effects will be long term and can drastically reduce the size of enlarged veins.
The grape seed and pine bark extracts shouldn’t be combined with steroid treatment. A doctor should be consulted prior to getting the treatment.
