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HEART FUNCTION

Horse Chestnut

Aesculus hippocastanum

also known as horse chestnut seed extract

Strong (chronic venous insufficiency)

Seed of a large European tree — not the edible chestnut despite the shared name. Standardized horse chestnut seed extract is one of the best-studied herbs for leg circulation, with evidence solid enough to earn approval from European regulators for chronic venous insufficiency.

Eases the heavy, achy, swollen legs of chronic venous insufficiency
Reduces leg swelling and the visible appearance of varicose veins
Strengthens vein walls and reduces capillary leakage
Anti-inflammatory action specific to blood vessel walls
Approved by Germany's Commission E for chronic venous insufficiency
Effects build over several weeks of consistent use

Always use standardized extracts (typically 16–20% aescin) — raw seeds, leaves, bark, and unprocessed extracts contain a toxic compound called esculin

Use caution with blood thinners — horse chestnut has mild anticoagulant action

May lower blood sugar — caution with diabetes medication

Skip with kidney or liver disease

Skip during pregnancy and nursing

Stop two weeks before surgery

Children and pets should not eat raw horse chestnut seeds — they are poisonous

NCCIH — Horse Chestnut · MedlinePlus Herbs & Supplements · NIH NCCIH Herbs at a Glance

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