Horse Chestnut and Edema

Edema is the buildup of abnormal levels of fluid in the circulatory system and the tissues between the body’s cells. It is often caused by eating too much salt and not drinking enough water. 

This fluid retention may also be caused by kidney and bladder infections, heart problems, oral contraceptives, adrenal exhaustion, hypothyroidism, protein hormonal changes, obesity, or lack of exercise. 

There are several over the counter diuretics available to treat edema by encouraging the kidneys to filter more waste and excess fluid from your body. 

People who prefer herbal remedies may opt for various herbs that have diuretic-like properties. Horse chestnut is a potent herb, known to reduce edema. But, is it really effective? Let’s find out. 

How Does It Work: 

Clinically known as Aesculus hippocastanum, horse chestnut seed extract is commonly used in Europe to treat chronic venous insufficiency. The effects of chronic venous insufficiency include leg swelling, edema, varicose veins, and itching. 

Horse chestnut reduces fluid retention by working on the connective tissue barricade between blood vessels and tissue. 

Horse chestnut seed is used to improve circulation and promote the health of the blood vessels. It makes it harder for fluid to leak out of veins and capillaries. It also promotes fluid loss through the urine to prevent water retention. 

Horse chestnut contains escin and esculin compounds that protect blood vessels and help prevent fluid retention. It contains antioxidant compounds that strengthen weak or fragile veins. 

It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain associated with edema. 

Case Studies: 

A study conducted at the Universities of Plymouth and Exeter in England in 2006, examined years of studies and performed a meta-analysis on the effectiveness of horse chestnut in reducing leg swelling and pain. 

It was found that this herbal remedy was successful in treating leg pain when the horse chestnut extract was taken as a supplement for 2 to 16 weeks. 

Another study suggested that horse chestnut extract was as effective as compression stockings to reduce edema, although the study was not double-blind. 

Are There Any Side Effects: 

You should not use raw or unprocessed horse chestnut extracts as they contain esculin, which is poisonous. 

When properly processed, horse chestnut seed extract with little or no esculin is generally safe when used for short periods of time. 

Higher doses or use of extended periods might cause some side effects such as itching, nausea, or gastrointestinal upset. 

You must tell your health care provider about any complementary and alternative practices you use before taking this herbal remedy. 

Are There Any Drug Interactions: 

You should avoid taking horse chestnut along with diabetes medications as this might cause your blood sugar to go too low. The herb may interact with the following medications: 

Glimepiride, glyburide, insulin, pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, chlorpropamide, glipizide, tolbutamide, and others. 

You should also avoid anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs if you are already taking horse chestnut. It might interact with the following medications: 

Aspirin, clopidogrel, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, dalteparin, enoxaparin, heparin, warfarin, and others. 

Try A Natural Supplement – Capisette: 

If you are looking for a natural fluid retention remedy that contains horse chestnut extracts then consider taking Capisette. This effective remedy replenishes the body with lost nutrients and helps reduce edema.