Horse Chestnut and Birth Control Pills
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Cheryl
Posted on: November 19, 2004

I am considering taking horse chestnut for the spider veins in my legs. I am currently on a low-dose birth control called Aviane. Is it safe to take horse chestnut while on this, due to the possible blot-clotting properties of the pill?

Horse chestnut does not contribute towards blood clotting. It does improve circulation by strengthening blood vessles and by providing a slippery layer on the inside of the blood vessel walls to help the blood flow through more smoothly. There are no negative side effects with birth control pills. You can use horse chestnut both externally and internally. Externally, it is usually combined with witch hazel for added benefit. Ask for a good external product at your health food store. Horse Chestnut should not be used internally in pregnancy or breast feeding.

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