Vessels within the lymphatic system carry protein-rich fluid responsible for clearing bacteria, viruses and waste from the body. Damaged or blocked nodes or vessels can create a back-up of fluid causing inflammation, usually in an arm or leg, called lymphedema. Common causes include cancerous tumors, radiation treatment, surgery or parasitic infection. Standard treatment focuses on reducing the swelling and subsequent pain along with prevention of subsequent infections. Various herbal remedies purported to heal venous vasculature, reduce inflammation and aid in detoxification may be recommended.
Herbal remedies are not to be substituted for treatment recommendations by a trained medical doctor.
Horse Chestnut
Aesculus hippocastanum, commonly known as horse chestnut, was used historically to treat various venous conditions. It can be used topically as a poultice or ointment or taken internally in capsule form. In 2006, The Cochrane Institute conducted a comprehensive review of the research using horse chestnut seed extract in chronic venous insufficiency. Results indicated a significant improvement in leg pain and fluid volume across all studies. This herb may not prove beneficial by itself but in combination with other medically supervised treatment.
Before using this herbal treatment, talk with your doctor.
Coumarin
Substances known as benzopyrones found in flavonoids like coumarin help break down the proteins in excess fluid of lymphedema. Smaller protein fragments can then more easily pass through venous capillaries to be drained from the body. Coumarin's antioxidant properties also benefit removal of toxins.
Warning: Coumarin may be contraindicated in people who suffer from liver disease. Check with your doctor before starting this supplement.
Grape Seed Extract
Especially known for its antioxidant protection from premature aging, disease and decay, grape seed extract has been studied for its specific effects on vascular integrity. A 2003 article in the "Journal of Medicinal Food" reported: "Extensive research suggests that grape seed extract is beneficial in many areas of health because of its antioxidant effect to bond with collagen, promoting youthful skin, cell health, elasticity, and flexibility...proanthocyanidins help to protect the body from sun damage, to improve vision, to improve flexibility in joints, arteries, and body tissues such as the heart, and to improve blood circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries, and veins."
Always check with your physician before beginning any over-the-counter supplement or health food.
Bromelain
Substances called proteolytic enzymes break down proteins into smaller components called amino acids. Bromelain, an enzyme extract from the pineapple plant, is also a well-known anti-inflammatory agent that may benefit those who suffer from lymphedema. Supplementation with bromelain prior to and following a surgical procedure reduces swelling, bruising, healing time and pain, which is important, considering the elevated risk for lymphedema following surgical procedures.
Be aware that study outcomes are not predictive of any individual's likelihood of success. Check with your physician before using bromelain.
Witch Hazel
The astringent property of Hamamelis virginiana, or witch hazel, has proven helpful in cases of deficient circulation, including hemorrhoids, varicose veins and phlebitis. Preparations come in the form of witch hazel water, lotion and ointment readily found in pharmacies. The antibacterial properties of witch hazel taken orally in a weak tea give additional credence to its use.
Warning: Do not ingest the witch hazel found in drug stores that contains alcohol. Talk with your health-care provider before using witch hazel as therapy.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Lymphedema: Causes
- "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews"; Horse chestnut seed extract for chronic venous insufficiency; M.H. Pittler, E Ernst; Jan. 25, 2006.
- The Lymphoedema Association of Austrailia: The Benzo-pyrone Drugs in the Treatment of Lymphoedema
- "Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics"; An evaluation of the antioxidant activity of a standardized grape seed extract; S.L. Nuttall, M.J. Kendall, E. Bombardelli , et al.; 1998.
- "Alternative Medicine Review"; Nutritional support for wound healing; D. Mackay, A.L. Miller; Nov. 8, 2003.
