The effect of a nonsurgical treatment containing extract of Aesculus hippocastanum and essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis on symptoms of varicose veins: a randomized Controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction: Varicose veins are large, twisted, and prominent veins. There are several treatment options for varicose veins. Herbal remedies have been one of the most widely used alternative therapies over time. Based on possible anti-varicose properties of Rosemary and Horse-chestnut, this study was performed to evaluate the effect of these plants topically in the varicose veins treatment. Methods: This double-blind randomized clinical trial study was performed in varicose vein patients. 90 Patients included were randomly allocated to one of the groups. Groups included herbal gel containing Horse-chestnut + Rosemary extracts and placebo gel. The drugs in both groups were the same in terms of appearance, color, size and packaging type. The patients applied the gels twice daily for 14 days. Patients were examined at the first visit and 14 days after treatment start. Also clinical information was received by telephone on days 3, 7, and 10 after starting treatment, including the pain severity, edema, itching, feeling of heaviness in the leg, as well as information about the quality of drug use. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two treatment groups in terms of underlying factors and clinical manifestation at the baseline. The mean total score of symptoms in the placebo group before treatment was 6.21 which reached 5.63 after treatment. In treatment group, these numbers decreased from 7.88 to 4.34 (P < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion: Topical gel of the combination of these two plants can be used as an effective drug to treat pain and inflammation caused by varicose veins.