Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Horse Chestnut for Vein Support: Evidence Overview

Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) seed extract has a long history of traditional use for vascular health, particularly for supporting healthy veins and managing symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). More importantly, its use is backed by scientific evidence. The active compound, aescin (also spelled escin), is believed to reduce capillary permeability, improve venous tone, and possess anti-inflammatory properties.

Multiple randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials have evaluated horse chestnut seed extract in patients with CVI. A 2012 systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Advances in Therapy concluded that horse chestnut seed extract was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing leg pain, swelling, and itching in people with CVI. Another Cochrane review (2006, updated 2012) found consistent evidence that standardized horse chestnut seed extract (containing 16–20% aescin) led to reductions in leg volume and improvements in symptoms such as heaviness and discomfort, with efficacy comparable to compression stockings in some studies.

Horse chestnut is generally considered safe when used in standardized, processed forms (raw seeds or extracts can be toxic). Reported side effects are mild and rare. Because of these findings, horse chestnut seed extract is recommended in several European medical guidelines for the symptomatic treatment of CVI. Overall, scientific evidence supports its use as a supplement to support the vein body system, particularly for those with mild to moderate venous insufficiency.

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