Varicose veins are often referred to as spider veins. The reason for this is because the veins look a bit like a spider web as they bulge out and twist. Typically, spider veins are found on the legs. The reason for this is because the legs are the farthest away from the heart and it takes effort to get the blood to pump through them. The calf muscles pump blood through the legs. There are valves in the veins that help to prevent the backflow of blood. As the veins start to lose elasticity the valves may start to fail. This will result in blood pooling in the veins, which can cause them to twist and then bulge out.
Spider veins are most often found in women and in those who have to work standing up for long periods of time. For the most part, spider veins are simply a cosmetic issue, unless they are accompanied by ulceration, pain, or itching. Here are 12 home remedies that can help get rid of spider veins.
1. Massage
One of the things that lead to spider veins is blood pooling within the veins. The pools of blood will cause the walls of the veins to expand and twist. This impedes blood flow further. Another risk is the formation of blood clots. Sitting with the legs slightly elevated can help allow the blood to flow towards the heart. Another home remedy is to gently massage the legs. This will help to increase the circulation of blood.
A massage should be very gently administered to the area where the spider veins are present. Simply rubbing the legs with a gentle upward stroke can help to smooth out the veins that have become twisted and will improve blood flow. It is important to not put too much pressure directly on the veins that are bulging. Coconut oil or olive oil can be used for lubrication. Peppermint or wintergreen essential oils can add a soothing effect.
