Right now, the internet is buzzing with claims that you can cure varicose veins by coating them with a blend of olive oil, cloves and Vicks VapoRub will. But that’s simply not true. Because applying this combination to your veins won’t cure the underlying issue, since varicose veins form when problems develop deep within your blood vessels, not on your skin’s surface. Moreover, this kind of topical application could actually cause health complications, especially if you have any cuts or openings on the skin surrounding your veins. So, is using Vicks VapoRub in varicose veins a good idea? Absolutely not—and here’s why!

Key Takeaways:

·       Social media platforms are pushing claims that using Vicks VapoRub on varicose veins will help them resolve

·       Because varicose veins form due to malfunctioning valves deep within your blood vessels, topical applications of any substances can’t treat this condition

·       To resolve varicose veins without surgery, you can explore minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures. They are performed by interventional radiologists without major incisions or the need for general anesthesia

Table of Contents

1.  The danger in using Vicks VapoRub on varicose veins

2.      Causes of varicose veins

3.      Signs and symptoms

4.      Alternative treatment options

The Problem with Using Vicks VapoRub on Varicose Veins

The latest social media myth claims that you can get rid of varicose veins by simmering a combination of olive oil, cloves and Vicks for five minutes on a low heat, then applying the mix to the ‘treatment’ area after a brief cooling period.  As we’ve already mentioned, this mixture absolutely won’t clear up varicose veins. And that’s because this condition may manifest on your skin’s surface, but it develops because of what’s going on deep inside your body.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins may appear to bulge out of your skin; they can appear to be twisted, and may cause symptoms such as heavy, aching legs; itching; swelling or skin discoloration; or even venous ulcers. While many of these symptoms are visible on your skin’s surface, the causes of varicose veins begin when valves within your veins stop functioning optimally. Then, because they can’t fully prevent blood from flowing backward, the blood accumulates in your veins, resulting in visible swelling and enlargement.

Of course, no one would think that a topical mixture of over-the-counter products could restore valve function within your veins. So it should be pretty clear that using Vicks VapoRub on varicose veins won’t resolve the condition. But trying this myth of a remedy could do more than waste your time—it could harm to your health if you fail to seek appropriate medical intervention. And that’s because, left untreated, varicose veins will progress, causing more disruptive symptoms and potentially leading to further complications, including blood clots, bleeding, or ulcers.

Varicose Vein Warning Signs

This condition is progressive. Initially, you may not notice any varicose vein symptoms. But some early warning signs include:

early warning signs of varicose veins, such as

• Flaking or itchy skin
• Skin that appears shiny or taught
• Discoloration of your skin

Left untreated, the condition will worsen and new symptoms can appear. Now, you may experience:

• Burning or aching legs
• Swollen legs
• Cramping in your legs
• Ulcers
• Bleeding

At this stage of development, seeking effective treatment—not ineffective home remedies—will help restore the healthy appearance of your legs, while also addressing the underlying vein disease.

Instead of Using Vicks VapoRub in Varicose Veins, Try This

By now, we hope you know that treating health concerns with mythical internet remedies is never a good idea. But just because this Vicks concoction won’t clear up your varicose veins means that there aren’t treatment options that can effectively resolve vein disease. In fact, at Georgia Endovascular, our interventional radiologists provide a range of minimally invasive procedures that treat different forms of vein disease without surgery or overnight hospital stays. From sclerotherapy and radiofrequency ablation to phlebectomy and more, there are a range of effective procedures that provide relief without surgery. You can learn more and explore the best treatments for your specific vein concerns by requesting a consultation at one of our three locations in the greater Atlanta area.