How to Treat Phlebitis With Herbal Medicine

Phlebitis is the inflammation of a vein and occurs most often in the legs. Often causing redness, heat, swelling and pain, phlebitis can be caused by a number of things including trauma or puncture to the skin near a vein, bacterial infections, genetics or even some prescription medications. While traditional medicine often treats phlebitis with prescription drugs, there are a number of natural and herbal medicines that you can use to both treat and prevent phlebitis.

Things You'll Need

• 4 tbsps. fresh marigold
• Soft towel
• Vitamin E oil
• Vitamin E capsules
• Witch hazel ointment
• Bilberry juice

Instructions

1. Make a hot poultice of fresh marigold and apply to the affected area three times a day. To make the poultice, boil fresh marigold in 1 quart of water for 20 minutes. Strain the herb and soak a towel in the liquid. Elevate the affected area and apply the hot towel, allowing the towel to cool completely before removing.

2. Apply Vitamin E oil to the irritated area with gentle massage to help speed the healing of phlebitis. You should also take Vitamin E capsules, beginning with 300 IU and gradually increasing to 800 IU over one week to improve blood circulation and prevent, relieve and even correct phlebitis.

3. Massage witch hazel ointment into the affected area three or more times a day. Witch hazel is an effective herbal medicine to reduce phlebitis, however you will need to use the ointment for at least 2 weeks before you see results.

4. Drink bilberry juice every morning, an herbal medicine used for many ailments. Bilberry juice supports the formation of the body's connective tissue and strengthens blood capillaries, helping to prevent phlebitis. Bilberry juice can be purchased in your local health food store and should be taken as directed by the manufacturer.

Tips & Warnings

• Instead of buying Vitamin E capsules and Vitamin E oil separately, puncture a capsule and squeeze the oil onto the skin.

• Maintaining fitness is the body's best medicine. Regular gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, will increase circulation, improve muscle tone and prevent and relieve phlebitis.

• Elevate the affected area, lifting it above your heart for 2 minutes at least three times a day to help drain blood from affected areas.

• Phlebitis, particularly deep venous phlebitis, can be a symptom of a more serious problem, so consult your naturopath or physician.