[Horse chestnut--remedy for chronic venous insufficiency].

Abstract

Horse- chestnut seed extract is widely used throughout Europe, and has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions. The most common indication is currently chronic venous insufficiency, for which conventional therapy includes use of compression stockings. Horse chestnut seed extract is generally well tolerated; the most common side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances, dizziness and calf-muscle spasms. Clinical trials have shown that horse- chestnut seed extract and placebo are associated with similar side effects Horse- chestnut may interact with anticoagulants and antidiabetics, and caution is advised in patients taking these drugs. A number of clinical trials have shown that horse- chestnut seed extract may be beneficial to patients with mild to moderate chronic venous insufficiency. However, inadequate randomization, short duration and use of different end-points in these trials makes it difficult to conclude regarding effectiveness and safety, especially in long-term use. Horse- chestnut seed extract appears to be a short-term treatment option in patients with mild to moderate chronic venous insufficiency, but more rigorous trials are required to confirm the efficacy of this treatment.

• Authors: Camilla Borthen Methlie, Jan Schjøtt
• Journal: Tidsskrift for den Norske laegeforening : tidsskrift for praktisk medicin, ny raekke (Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen) Vol. 129 Issue 5 Pg. 420-2 (Feb 26 2009) ISSN: 0807-7096 [Electronic] Norway
• Vernacular Title: Hestekastanje - naturlegemiddel mot venøs insuffisiens.
• PMID: 19247403 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Plant Extracts

Topics

• Aesculus
• Chronic Disease
• Herb-Drug Interactions
• Humans
• Phytotherapy (adverse effects)
• Plant Extracts (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Seeds
• Treatment Outcome
• Venous Insufficiency (drug therapy)