Aesculus hippocastanum benefits

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Horse chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum is a deciduous tree native to southeastern Europe. It sprouts white flowers in the spring that eventually turn to spiky green balls that contain fruit. The leaves, seeds, flowers, and bark of horse chestnut contain bioactive compounds that may benefit human health. These compounds include antioxidants, chlorophylls , and saponins , the most abundant of which is escin. Raw horse chestnut seeds should never be consumed, as they are known to contain a toxic component called aesculin. Standardized horse chestnut seed extracts and supplements have had this toxic component removed for safety.

Aesculus hippocastanum benefits

The horse chestnut is a tree that produces fruits with spiny shells containing seeds, called conchs. These fruits can have beneficial effects on health , for example in the treatment of varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Proponents of horse chestnut suggest that the seed extract contains active compounds that may protect veins and promote blood circulation. This is why some people may use it to treat varicose veins. However, while the seed extract appears safe for short-term use, horse chestnut raw materials may contain toxic compounds. Further research is therefore needed to distinguish possible health benefits and side effects. This article discusses the properties of horse chestnuts and their beneficial effects on health. It also reviews the research findings and the essential things to consider when it comes to safety and side effects. Also read: Treat yourself with natural treatments. Aesculus hippocastanum , or horse chestnut , is a tree native to parts of southeastern Europe , but grows in many parts of the world today. It is also known as "buckeye " or "Spanish chestnut". The tree is recognizable by its leaves and flowers , but its most notable feature is its fruit. Insects pollinate the flowers, which then develop a shiny red-brown cone inside a spiky green husk.

Flavonoids also have protective effects on blood vessels, and are well-known, powerful anti-oxidants.

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Horse Chestnut. Aesculus Hippocastanum, Conker Tree. Aesculus Hippocastanum, also known as conker tree or horse chestnut, is an adaptogenic herb with a long history of use as a traditional medicine. This herb is often used as a supplement for reducing the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency but can also have various other beneficial effects. This article is about the main benefits of horse chestnut, its potential side effects, the best time to take it, and more. All of the potential benefits mentioned below are dose-dependent. As with other adaptogenic herbs, there is a sweet-spot dose that allows you to get most of the benefits without causing meaningful side effects or tolerance buildup in the body.

Aesculus hippocastanum benefits

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Horse chestnut extract has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and may help relieve pain and inflammation. It may also benefit other health conditions like hemorrhoids and male infertility caused by swollen veins. Extract from the horse chestnut seed is a popular dietary supplement commonly used to improve vein health and reduce inflammation. The main active component in horse chestnut extract is aescin, which has been studied for its many health benefits.

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What is your feedback? There is no standardized recommendation for liquid supplements. Horse chestnut. Gallelli L. It has been found to reduce inflammation related to injury, venous insufficiency, and swelling 10 , 11 , 12 , How we reviewed this article: History. This may be due to the synergistic effects of the components in the extract Symptoms can include 1 :. Pickup location. However, because these are animal or laboratory studies, scientists need to conduct more research on humans to confirm these results. Office of Dietary Supplements ODS , National Institutes of Health NIH ODS seeks to strengthen knowledge and understanding of dietary supplements by evaluating scientific information, supporting research, sharing research results, and educating the public. In addition to the well reported beneficial effects of horse chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum extracts on venous insufficiency and associated conditions, such preparations also have many potential positive pharmacological effects on the skin. How to treat, what causes, and how painful are varicose, or spider, veins? Horse chestnut seed extract may reduce inflammation related to chronic venous insufficiency, trauma, surgery, or injuries.

Horse chestnut is a tree that produces spiny-shelled fruits containing seeds, known as conkers. These may have some health benefits, for instance in treating varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Raw horse chestnut seeds should never be consumed, as they are known to contain a toxic component called aesculin. According to one review, results from both lab studies and clinical trials have found horse chestnut to have a positive effect on CVI. Summary The beneficial dosage of horse chestnut seed extract appears to be — mg of aescin per day in supplement form and 3—4 daily applications of cream or extract when applied topically. The benefits of plants in herbal medicine for acne. Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices? Discard your supplements once they have expired. People can extract the active compounds of horse chestnut from its seeds and leaves. Instances of severe reactions to horse chestnut are very rare. Additionally, escin can improve the tone of veins and their ability to contract effectively. View Cart Check Out. Regardless of their classification, no part of the horse chestnut tree should be consumed raw. Chronic venous insufficiency: What to know. CVI affects approximately 6—7 million people in the United States, with more females having the condition than males.