Horse Chestnut Seed
Horse chestnut seed extract is commonly used to support vein health, leg heaviness, and swelling related to circulation. Raw horse chestnut is toxic and must not be eaten. Only standardized, properly processed extracts (often labeled for aescin content) are appropriate for supplement use.
Key Benefits
- Supports vein tone and circulation comfort (leg heaviness, swelling)
- May reduce feelings of heaviness and support microcirculation
- Often used in topical gels for localized leg comfort
- Best used alongside movement, hydration, and compression when needed
Common Issues It May Help With
- Varicose vein discomfort (supportive)
- Leg heaviness
- Swelling related to circulation (supportive)
- Hemorrhoid discomfort (topical/supportive)
How To Use (Simple)
- Use only standardized extracts or topical gels from reputable brands. Follow label directions and avoid raw seed preparations. Topical gels can be applied as directed to legs
- avoid broken skin.
Taste / Notes
Not used as food; raw seed is unsafe.
Evidence Level
Moderate evidence for chronic venous insufficiency symptoms (leg pain, swelling, heaviness) with standardized extracts.
Cautions
HIGH CAUTION: Do not consume raw horse chestnut—can be toxic. Avoid in pregnancy/breastfeeding. Use caution if you have kidney or liver disease. Stop if you develop rash, GI upset, dizziness, or unusual bleeding/bruising.
Interactions
May increase bleeding risk with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (consult clinician) Use caution with NSAIDs due to bleeding risk stacking If taking kidney-active medications, consult a clinician before use
Debug: Loaded Herb Fields (verification)
{
"slug": "horse-chestnut-seed",
"title": "Horse Chestnut Seed",
"latinName": "Aesculus hippocastanum",
"category": "seed",
"tagsCount": 5,
"summaryLen": 289,
"benefitsBullets": 4,
"issuesItTreats": 4,
"howToUse": 2,
"hasTaste": true,
"hasEvidence": true,
"hasCautions": true,
"hasInteractions": true
}