In Ayurveda, this is described under the condition of varicose veins, which refers to the abnormal dilation, itching and thickening of the veins, especially in the lower limbs, due to the depletion of Vata and Rakta (blood).
Causes (nidana)
The main doshas involved are Vata and Rakta, while in chronic cases, Kala dosha is involved. The causative factors are:
- Prolonged standing
- Heavy lifting
- Over-exercise/excessive physical exertion
- Diet and lifestyle that aggravate Vata dosha
- Obstruction of blood vessels
- Presence of impure blood
These factors cause loss of elasticity of the veins, resulting in varicose veins.
Modern science suggests
- Venous valve working insufficiency
- Heredity/genetic predisposition
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Age-related weakening of the vein walls
- Lack of exercise/sedentary lifestyle as causes.
Symptoms
- Torn and swollen veins, especially in the legs
- Heaviness and pain in the legs, especially after standing for long periods
- Cramping or throbbing pain
- Swelling of the feet or ankles
- Skin discoloration or dark spots near the veins
- Itching and redness over the affected veins
- Ulcers/wounds occur in chronic or neglected cases.
- Piercing leg pain
- Stiffness in the legs
Management (Treatment)
General Ayurvedic principles:
- Vata dosha should be balanced and the blood should be purified.
- Srotoshodhana (cleansing of blood vessels)
- Vein puncture – removal of impure blood trapped in veins.
- Raktamokshana (blood removal – leech therapy)
- Performing Khasayana Karma (rejuvenation therapy for vein strength)
Internal medicines:
- Kishora Guggulu – blood purifier, anti-inflammatory
- Punarnava Guggulu – reduces swelling and water retention
- Raktha Shodhana kashaya, chhurna and guli types
- Blood purifiers and anti-inflammatory substances such as walmadata, rasakida, turmeric
- Tripala (gentle bowel regulation) before bed
Note: Dosages should be adjusted based on prakriti and medical discretion.
External Treatments
Oil Massage
- Sahacharadi Oil
- Nirgundi Oil
Lepa (Medicinal Paste Application):
- Manjishtha, Haridra, Daru Haridra Paste
Jalauka / Leech Therapy): Very effective in relieving congestion and inflammation of varicose veins.
Rasayana (Rejuvenation Therapy)
4–6 weeks after the initial treatment:
- Ashwagandha Lehya or Chyavanprash – To tone body tissues and boost immunity
- Amalaki Rasayana – Antioxidant and vein strengthening
Diet – Foods to Eat/Foods to Consume
• Warm, light foods – Khichdi, barley soup, green lentils
• Green leafy vegetables, pumpkin, beetroot
• Garlic, ginger, turmeric – Natural blood thinners and anti-inflammatory.
• Spinach and Moringa – Improves blood circulation
• Nelli juice – Rich in antioxidants
• Use ghee in moderation – Relieves Vata Dosha
Foods to avoid
• Cold, stale and processed foods
• Fried and oily foods
• High salt, fermented or sour foods
• Red meat, cheese and high dairy products
• Excessive tea/coffee, alcohol, tobacco
Lifestyle guidelines
• Elevate your legs above heart level while resting
• Walk for 30 minutes daily to encourage blood circulation
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
• Wear compression stockings (as per modern guidelines)
• Do exercises that strengthen the pelvic muscles.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing around the thighs
Yoga
Yoga asanas (15–30 minutes)
• Viparita Karani (Lifting legs up the wall)
• Sarvangasana (supervised only)
• Pavamuktasana (Leg rotation, ankle rotation)
• Vajrasana
Avoid strenuous poses or prolonged standing if you have ulcers or severe inflammation.
Complications
If left untreated or poorly managed, varicose veins can lead to the following conditions:
- Venous ulcers
- Eczema or skin diseases
- Thrombophlebitis (blood clots)
- Bleeding from broken veins
- Skin fibrosis and discoloration
