We’ve all heard about ancient practices that people have been doing for millennia to beautify themselves and achieve optimal health and wellness. But, can varicose veins and other venous conditions benefit from any of these century-old natural remedies?
Dry brushing can be dated back 5,000 years ago to ancient India. Ayurveda is India's original holistic health care system. Dry brushing, called garshana, was a staple massage technique stimulating circulation and blood flow. The process also exfoliated the skin to unclog pores and allowed the skin to absorb moisture more effectively. In addition, dry brushing stimulates the lymphatic system, improves circulation, increases energy levels, and helps rid the body of toxins.
Dry brushing in modern culture has evolved from its ancient roots. Historically, dry body brushing was performed using silk or linen gloves. The procedure uses a firm handheld brush made of natural fiber bristles. The point of dry brushing is to move lymph and pool blood from your extremities toward your heart, which will re-enter the bloodstream and recirculate. Most dry brushing techniques will teach you to start at the feet and move upwards, using sweeping circular motions. Pressure should be lighter where the skin is more delicate and firm where the skin is thicker.
Varicose veins are the most common symptom of venous insufficiency. This condition is a breakdown in the blood flow from the legs to the heart. Weak or damaged valves cause varicose veins in the veins. When the cardiovascular system works correctly, the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood delivered to the body through large vessels called arteries. The smaller vessels, called veins, are responsible for returning the deoxygenated blood to the heart so the circulatory process can be repeated. When the veins fail to usher the blood back up toward the heart, the blood begins to pool in the veins and stretch them. This causes the veins to appear enlarged, twisted, and bulging at the skin's surface.
Many people tout the health and beauty benefits of dry brushing, but what effect can it have on varicose veins? Simply, dry brushing may help temporarily relieve the pain and discomfort of varicose veins. It may also help make the veins look slightly less noticeable for a short period. However, this type of superficial varicose veins treatment will likely only deliver minimal effects that won’t last long. To eliminate varicose and spider veins, you’ll need to undergo professional treatment by a vein specialist. In addition, you’ll need to make meaningful lifestyle changes to experience long-lasting results from any of your vein procedures.
Standard services offered through reputable vein center centers include:
Varicose vein treatment using conservative therapy ensures treatment does not interfere with daily activities. Leg elevation and compression stockings can offer relief from pain and other symptoms. Avoid standing or sitting for prolonged periods. Also, lifestyle changes can be effective strategies in finding relief— like a healthy diet rich in flavonoids and regular, moderate exercise regimens.
Natural remedies for varicose veins may help relieve symptoms with minimal effects and temporary relief. Dry brushing may be a good self-care practice but is not a substitute for FDA-approved vein treatment. BASS Vein Center will deliver high-quality, visible results. Call us today!
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