Leg circulation problems are commonly caused by artherosclerosis and diabetes. Other factors for developing poor leg circulation include smoking, a lack of exercise, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Complications related to poor circulation include sores that develop and do not heal properly because nutrient-rich blood that heals wounds does not reach the affected area, and blood clots and varicose veins that can contribute to more serious health problems, according to the website ePodiatry. The herbs horse chestnut and butcher's broom can be effective treatments for improving leg circulation, according to anecdotal reports. Always consult a physician prior to taking herbs medicinally.
Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut trees are native to the Greece and Bulgaria and now grow throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Traditionally, horse chestnut seeds, leaves, bark and flowers have been used to treat a variety of health disorders, including chronic venous insufficiency, or poor leg circulation. Symptoms of this condition include varicose veins, ankle swelling, pain, itching, feelings of leg heaviness and nighttime leg cramps. Horse chestnut is thought to be as beneficial in treating chronic venous insufficiency as wearing compression stockings, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Butcher's Broom
Butcher's broom grows in Europe, North Africa and western Asia. The herb is commonly used to treat disorders such as varicose veins. The herb used to be extensively used in this role in the folk medicine. Topical ointments and oral extract supplements of butcher's broom are the most commonly used forms to treat varicose veins, according to the Herbs 2000 website.
Recommended Dosage and Considerations
Horse chestnut seed extract is the most commonly used form of the herb for leg circulation. Topical ointments have also been used effectively. Always avoid homemade preparations of horse chestnut because the raw herb contain esculin, which is poisonous.
The encapsulated form of butcher's broom extract is typically used to treat systemic venous insufficiency. Often the supplements are taken alongside vitamin C or flavonoids for added vein and tissue support.
