Horse Chestnut As Alternative Medicine

Horse Chestnut As Alternative Medicine

Horse chestnut is an alternative medicine derived from an extract of the leaves, seeds and bark of the horse chestnut tree. Traditionally its bark has been used to treat malaria and dysentery. Today this herb is used for a wider range of health problems.

1. It is a remedy for water retention in the body.
2. It is a treatment for respiratory disorders such as bronchitis, coughs and catarrh.
3. It is effective against varicose veins, leg pain and swelling.
4. It is used to treat inflammation of joints and arthritis.
5. It is a treatment for enlarged prostrate, hemorrhoids, diarrhea and fever.

Horse chestnut is available as capsules, tablets, creams and salves from pharmacies and health food stores. It is unsafe for use by pregnant or nursing women and children. Side effects include itching, gastrointestinal upset, headache, calf cramps and nausea. It is not recommended for use with medications for diabetics. This herb when combined with feverfew, ginseng, garlic and ginkgo can increase bruising and bleeding. It is also not advisable to use it with such herbs as fenugreek, gotu kola, dong quai and aconite. Horse chestnut is yet another potent alternative medicine that has to be used with caution.