Herbal Remedies

Bilberry Flavonoids contained in bilberry may relieve a variety of circulatory disorders. To make a tea, add 1 cup boiling water to 1 to 2 teaspoons dried and powdered leaf. Steep, then strain. Or boil 1 tablespoon dried berries for 10 minutes, then strain. Large doses or chronic consumption of the tea are potentially toxic and are not advised.

Witch hazel Applied topically, homemade or commercial preparations containing the extracts of witch hazel leaves, stems, or bark can help tone veins near the skin's surface and soothe hemorrhoids and varicose veins. A decoction made from 10 or more teaspoons chopped leaves in 1 cup boiling water can also be mildly effective when applied externally. The common distillate form does not contain the beneficial tannins and, as a result, has a weaker effect than the extracts.