Horse chestnut: a powerful ally against poor circulation

Also known as Indian walnut, the horse chestnut is a fruit from the Indian chestnut tree, a tree native to the Balkan countries in Europe, where it can reach 25 meters in height.

Currently associated with weight loss, this nut is a food widely used by folk medicine mainly for the treatment of circulatory problems, to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, rheumatoid and even as a vermifuge.

Regarding its characteristics, according to nutritionist Andréa Farah, this nut contains a good dose of protein, carbohydrates, fiber and good fats, the latter being ideal to help control cholesterol. “In addition, its glycemic index is low, not reaching 55”, he adds.

With only 20 calories and a flavor similar to sweet potato, this seed is also widely used in the cosmetic industry, where its oil makes up cream formulas, ensuring smooth skin and promoting an astringent effect.

7 incredible benefits of horse chestnut

The use of chestnut in natural medicine dates back hundreds of years, where it can be used in the most varied forms, including its leaves, fruits and seeds. Here are some of the benefits cited by the nutritionist of regular consumption of this food:

1. Fighting swelling: if this is due to poor circulation, the horse chestnut helps in increasing blood circulation, where its action in the smaller capillaries prevents the extravasation of liquid, with consequent reduction of swelling.

2. Detox effect: as well as in the fight against swelling, the chestnut has substances that stimulate circulation, protecting the walls of the vessels and eliminating toxins from the body.

3. Cellulite improvement: as cellulite is the result of poor circulation, by correctly stimulating this process, the appearance of cellulite will be softened, reducing the accumulation of body fluid.

4. Helps regulate cholesterol: rich in good fats, this food helps reduce LDL, the bad cholesterol, and increase HDL, known as good cholesterol.

5. Relieves menstrual cramps: again its influence in improving circulation demonstrates its importance. By stimulating blood flow, horse chestnut also helps to minimize the pain caused by menstrual cramps.

6. Provides a richer diet: this is an extremely nutritious food, containing minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium and phosphorus, in addition to vitamins B2, B6, B9, E, K and C.

7. Fights varicose veins: in addition to improving the blood flow of small and large vessels, the chestnut also improves their elasticity, preventing their rupture.

How to use horse chestnuts

Easily accessible, horse chestnut can be found in any health food store, pharmacies or compounding pharmacies. Below are some of the most used forms, cited by the professional:

Capsules: of manipulated formula, must be prescribed by a doctor or nutritionist. It is widely used for cases of capillary fragility.

Powder: add 5 tablespoons of horse chestnut to 1 bottle of 70% ethyl alcohol using a funnel. Let the mixture rest for 2 weeks in a sunny location. After this period, dilute 5 tablespoons of this mixture in 1 liter of water and consume this liquid in small portions during the day.

In natura: “a tea can be made from chestnuts, just add ½ tablespoon of powdered chestnuts to 200 ml of water. After boiling, strain and drink a cup after meals”, he teaches. Another option is to divide the chestnut into 8 parts and consume it for breakfast.

Leaves: just boil 1 liter of water and add 30 g of horse chestnut leaves, letting the mixture rest for 20 minutes before straining and consuming.

Horse chestnut and weight loss

Despite having its use related to weight loss, horse chestnut does not lose weight, as it does not burn fat. “It helps in the weight loss process because it has a diuretic and laxative effect, helps to have good circulation”, reveals Andréa.

Also according to the professional, its consumption is indicated precisely because it is great for blood circulation, and thus helps to reduce fluid retention, but there is no reduction in body fat itself.

Contraindications to its consumption

“Its indiscriminate use can result in paralysis with sudden immobility, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty concentrating and weakness”, warns the nutritionist. In addition, this food should not be consumed by people with heart, kidney or gastrointestinal problems, due to its effect on increasing blood circulation.

“Another risk group that should avoid its consumption are pregnant women, lactating women and patients who use anticoagulants, as it can potentiate the effect of this drug”, he adds.

It is worth noting that, like any other food that will be used with medicinal properties, the effects of using horse chestnuts may vary from person to person, and medical or nutritional monitoring is recommended to avoid any problems.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.