Abstract
Horse chestnut seed extract (Aesculus hippocastanum) is an herbal remedy with an
active component called escin, that appears to improve symptoms in patients with
chronic venous insufficiency (22). This oral drug treatment is an attractive option
for discomfort and poor compliance associated with the conservative compression
therapy of chronic venous insufficiency. A review of three observational studies
and 13 randomized controlled trials indicated that horse chestnut seed extract is
an effective and safe short-term treatment for chronic venous insufficiency; however,
further studies are required to evaluate long-term effectiveness and safety (23). The
recommended dose is 50mg of escin twice daily.