Horse chestnut’s bark, leaves, flowers and seeds are being used for the prevention and treatment of a wide variety health and beauty concerns. Several different compounds found horse chestnut extract are known to possess analgesic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and antioxidant properties. Their presence is what makes horse chestnut so effective in alleviating the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, putting an end to diarrhea, lowering cancer risk and many others.
There are also a variety of cosmetic products being sold across the globe that contain horse chestnut extract. A few of them include shower gels, hand and body lotions, and shaving creams. Some products that aim to promote body slimming and skin firmness also rely on horse chestnut.
Currently, numerous herbal and health food stores online and offline carry horse chestnut in extract and oil forms. Let us take a look at some of the health and beauty benefits offered by the herb:
It Reduces Pain and Inflammation
Traditional healers employ horse chestnut in dealing with an assortment of problems that involve pain and inflammation. For instance, the herb is known to be superb at easing painful and swollen joints. Horse chestnut is also commonly utilized for treating muscles that are injured, achy and inflamed.
It Alleviates Hemorrhoids
Because horse chestnut has astringent properties, which means that it can promote contraction of tissues, it is a well-known remedy for those painful and embarrassing hemorrhoids. Aside from this, another problem concerning the GI tract that horse chestnut is known to be very effective against is diarrhea.
It May Reduce Risk of Cancer
Earlier, it was mentioned that horse chestnut is capable of controlling inflammation and it also possesses antioxidant properties. That is why the herb is known for many years now to help reduce a person’s risk of having cancer. Some studies have shown that horse chestnut is capable of shrinking tumors and killing off cancer cells.
It Helps Eliminate Varicose Veins
A very popular use of horse chestnut is for the relief of varicose veins. It has something to do with the fact that this herb is capable of promoting strong and healthy blood vessels in the legs. It is exactly for this reason why horse chestnut is traditionally used for the prevention of the pooling of blood in the lower extremities.
It Eases Leg Heaviness and Cramps
Due to the ability of horse chestnut to improve the blood vessels as well as enhance blood circulation itself, it is commonly employed for easing the likes of leg heaviness and cramps. Horse chestnut in the form of oil is the one used for massaging the legs to alleviate the aforementioned problems.
It Makes Skin Look Young
Horse chestnut is capable of tightening the skin, and that’s why it is commonly employed as an anti-aging agent. Topical use helps reduce the appearance of cosmetic issues like large pores, fine lines and wrinkles. There are plenty of anti-aging products on the current market that actually contain horse chestnut.
Warning
A few people who have tried horse chestnut reported of having unusual reactions to the use of horse chestnut. Some of their complaints include swelling of the throat and lips, as well as breathing difficulties. If you notice unfavorable side effects, stop using horse chestnut right away.
Make sure that you inform your doctor about your plan on using horse chestnut or any other herb or special herbal preparation. This is true most especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or diagnosed with a health problem and currently taking prescribed drugs for its management.
