Is it safe to use horse chestnut seed extract for varicose veins?

Probably : There are not a lot of good studies on the safety of horse chestnut extract. It is an herbal supplement so does not have to go through quite as much testing. It is probably safe. Be sure to let your doctor know because it could interact with other medicines.

Venotonic herbs: Several botanicals are helpful to strengthen vein tone, but will not eradicate damaged veins. Look for rutin, horse chestnut extract, hesperidin, diosmin as the most promising. Most are anti-inflammatory and safe as directed.

Safe, not terribly : Effective. As dr. Presant said, there are a number of medicines called venotonics that are herbal in origin and have anti- inflammatory properties. They might be helpful in reducing swelling related to varicose veins but they won't fix the problem. The ones that have been shown to be effective are also not available in the us. Save you money and use it to buy a good pair of compression hose.

Vein evaluation.: There is no medical evidence to document that horse chestnut will improve the appearance of varicose veins. Homeopathic supplements such as horse chestnut, escin, diosmin and bioflavonoids are just that-supplements. They are not 1st line treatment for varicose veins. It would be prudent for you to have a venous evaluation by a vein specialist.