Horse Chestnut Seed Extract (Aesculus Hippocastanum)

Horse chestnut seed extract has been used in several clinical studies and shown to have a favorable effect on mild to moderate circulatory disorders and chronic venous insufficiency. Improvement in symptoms, such as lower extremity swelling or edema, tissue oxygenation and enhancement of circulatory stability, has been noted.

Extracts, which contain the active ingredient aescin, have been shown to have anti-edematous (anti-swelling) and anti-inflammatory effects on the connective tissue, in addition to enhancing connective tissue integrity. Although the traditional use of horse chestnut extract dates to the 16th century, it was not until the 1800\'s that French researchers reported in published clinical trials favorable effects on diverse symptomatology, such as hemorrhoidal ailments. This is, presumably, accomplished by its enhancement of connective tissue strength. In addition, both oral and topical preparations of horse chestnut seed extract have been shown to be helpful in the treatment of various types of dermatologic injury, such as burn (thermal injury) and surgical or other types of trauma.

Tests for chronic toxicity with horse chestnut seed extract have been shown to be negative. Although isolated cases of pruritus or itching, nausea and occasional stomach discomfort have been reported as side effects, I have not noted these problems in my own clinical experience. The typical dosage range in clinical studies has been 50 mg to 600 mg daily, often in sustained release formulation. The Commission E monograph recommends an average daily dose of 300 mg of standardized extract, containing 100 mg of aescin.

If you have further questions, please contact the Advanced Medical Center.

Dale Guyer, M.D.