For the majority of persons suffering from varicose veins, the condition is more of an unpleasant, cosmetic concern rather than a complication of the circulatory system; although having the condition may signal a risk factor for other, more serious circulatory disorders. Varicose veins are a very common affliction. Women are far more likely to experience this condition than men. In fact, upwards of 60% of all Americans will have varicose veins at some point in their lives. As well, this percentage increases with age.

The term “varicose” is Latin in origin and literally means to be “twisted.” Thus, varicose veins are defined as “twisted,” gnarled, and enlarged veins. The most common means of treatmentis via self-help measures such as compression stockings.

However, herbal treatments are gaining in popularity as anadjunct treatment and,ascurrent research indicates, may be aseffective as many compression therapies. Alternative therapies continue to be the primary choice for many varicose vein sufferers, as surgical procedures for treatment are quite invasive and involve the closing or complete removal of the affected vein.