Chestnut color: medicinal properties, use in traditional medicine, contraindications, photo. Common horse chestnut: description, medicinal properties, application and reviews

Horse chestnut is a deciduous tree with a well-developed crown. Mature plants reach a height of more than 25 meters. On the entire trunk and branches are large leaves of dark green color. In May, active flowering begins, small flowers have a white or slightly pinkish tint, they are collected in cone-shaped inflorescences. In autumn, around September, the fruits begin to ripen. They are located in a round box covered with sharp spikes. Chestnut seeds are round in shape, they are smooth and have a rich brown color, and a gray spot in the middle. This tree is very common, so it is widely used in traditional and folk medicine. This article will talk in detail about how to use horse chestnut, medicinal properties and contraindications of the plant.

The medicinal properties of the plant

Useful properties of a tree completely depend on its chemical composition. Different parts of the plant contain certain useful components (flowers, bark, fruits). However, everywhere contains flavonoids, which have a positive effect on the body. These active ingredients successfully thin the blood and prevent the formation of blood clots. In this ability, the chestnut has no equal!

The composition of horse chestnut contains such useful components:

• esculoside has the properties of vitamin P, so it effectively increases the efficiency of blood vessels;
• saponin escin promotes blood thinning;
• fatty oils effectively heal wounds and relieve inflammation;
• esculin, reduces capillary permeability, stimulates the formation of thrombin, increases blood supply to the veins;
• pectin qualitatively restores the work of the heart and blood vessels;
• starch is a source for nourishing muscle mass;
• quercetin, astragalin, lutein, these substances have a sedative and hypnotic effect;
• a variety of vitamins (A, B, C, K) strengthen the immune system and produce hemoglobin;
• organic acids contribute to the removal of toxins and toxins;
• flavonoids and glycosides, allow the use of this plant for cosmetic purposes.

Due to its rich composition, horse chestnut occupies a worthy place in traditional and folk medicine. Based on it, many medicines are made that are aimed at improving the functionality of the vascular system. Active components have a beneficial effect on the nervous system, so the plant is often used to treat neuritis and neuralgia. Chestnut also has a positive effect on the digestive organs, so it is taken for diarrhea and improper functioning of the gallbladder.

For medicinal purposes, flowers, bark, leaves and fruits of the plant are used. The following are guidelines for when it is best to collect components for the preparation of medicines.

1. Chestnut bark - medicinal properties. It is best to harvest in early spring. The bark must be carefully cut from young branches. Then it is crushed and dried in the usual way. The bark of the plant is used to make a decoction and tincture. They relieve pain and inflammation. Medicines based on it are recommended for the treatment of gout, rheumatism, as well as for hemorrhoids and respiratory diseases.
2. Horse chestnut flowers, medicinal properties. Flowers must be collected during the period of active flowering, that is, in May. Having collected the required amount, they must be put in the sun so that they slightly wilted (for 1 day). After that, the chestnut color is dried in the fresh air in the shade or in a room that is well ventilated. Based on the flowers, an alcohol tincture is prepared or juice is squeezed out of the inflorescences. This medicine is used to restore the vascular system, as well as pain in the joints.
3. Leaves have medicinal properties. Raw materials are best collected in spring or early summer, when the leaves are juicy and have a rich green color. They are washed and dried as usual. From the leaves prepare a tincture based on vodka or alcohol and a decoction of the leaves. The medicine is excellent for inflammatory processes, as well as for various suppurations.
4. Horse chestnut fruits, medicinal properties and uses. What is the fruit of horse chestnut called? Everything is very simple, it is called chestnut. It is necessary to collect it when the fruits fall, this is around October. Depending on the chosen medicine, the raw materials can be crushed or a healing agent can be prepared on whole fruits. Based on the fruit, you can prepare a decoction or tincture. The medicine helps to restore the functioning of the digestive organs, eliminate joint pain, and also adjust the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.

Important! The collection of medicinal raw materials must be carried out away from the city and highways. It is in these places that the most useful trees grow.

What heals chestnut? Horse chestnut is a unique plant from which high-quality medicines can be prepared. In the pharmacy you can buy drugs made on its basis, they also have useful properties. However, with what unpleasant symptoms and ailments do chestnut-based medicines help:

• medicinal properties for varicose veins. The disease provokes pathological changes in the veins, which leads to the formation of nodes. As a rule, the disease affects the legs, but it can also be found in the digestive organs and in the testes. Medicines from chestnut thin the blood, do not allow the formation of blood clots and strengthen the venous and vascular walls;
• ENT diseases. With sinusitis, washing the nose with a decoction is considered an effective procedure. Also, a decoction is recommended for the mouth and throat, as it has antiseptic properties;
• respiratory system. Preparations or decoctions with chestnut are excellent for ARVI, tracheitis, bronchitis and FLU, it also eliminates cough;
• gastrointestinal tract. Treatment with horse chestnut will restore the functioning of the digestive organs, and also eliminates inflammation. These drugs and decoctions are often recommended for ailments of the spleen, liver, pancreas, as well as gastritis with an increased level of acidity;
• dysfunction of the heart and blood vessels. Chestnut-based medicine is a panacea for cardiovascular ailments. It is recommended for atherosclerosis, increased cholesterol, high blood pressure, thrombophlebitis, as well as for disorders in the work of the heart;
• muscles and joints. Tinctures and infusions are applied externally. The drug is rubbed into diseased areas of the body with arthritis and rheumatism;
• for women. The plant effectively promotes clotting, and also stops the blood, so chestnut medicine is recommended for intrauterine bleeding. If the female organs are inflamed, then chestnut baths are recommended;
• for men. Preparations and decoctions based on horse chestnut are prescribed for the inflammatory process in the prostate gland, as well as for the diagnosis of varicocele disease.

Important! Before starting treatment with chestnut-based medications or using folk recipes with this plant, you should consult a doctor.

Medicinal use

There are many medicines based on chestnut. Below are the most effective recipes that will restore health.

1. As a rule, a decoction is prepared on the basis of the bark. To prepare it, you need 1 tbsp. bark spoon. It is poured with 250 ml of boiling water and boiled for several minutes, then insisted for an hour. After the time has elapsed, the medicine is filtered and taken 1 tbsp. spoon three times a day.

The decoction is excellent for diarrhea, shortness of breath, anemia, as well as inflammatory processes in the liver and spleen. The medicine is often recommended for coughing, bronchitis, acute respiratory infections, and even pneumonia.

1. A decoction of the fruits of the plant is usually used as a lotion. The medicine effectively eliminates inflammation from the skin, removes suppuration and promotes wound healing.

For cooking, you need 20 g of crushed fruits. They are poured with 0.5 liters of water, brought to a boil and boiled for 10 minutes. Then insist at least 4 hours. Strain the decoction before use.

Infusion from the bark and fruits of the plant

Infusions can be prepared from any suitable raw material. To do this, it is recommended to take leaves, flowers, bark and fruits. They can be used all together, or you can choose individually.

1. To prepare the medicine, you will need chopped chestnut peel (1 tablespoon), pour 250 ml of boiling water over it. The mixture is infused for an hour, and then filtered. Take the medicine three times a day for 1 teaspoon.
2. To prepare the infusion, you need chestnut bark. It must be crushed (1 tablespoon) and pour 250 mg of boiling water. Infuse the mixture for at least 8 hours, then filter. The infusion is taken ¼ cup three times a day, before meals.

During the flowering period of chestnuts, juice can be prepared from the inflorescences. It is excellent for hemorrhoids and varicose veins. For cooking, you need to collect the flowers and pass them through a meat grinder. Then squeeze the juice from the resulting slurry. Take drops should be 15 - 30 drops 2 times a day. The drug is quite bitter, so it must be diluted in 100 ml of water.

Horse chestnut tincture - medicinal properties

Chestnut-based tinctures are used externally for various ailments of the joints and muscles. The drug is thoroughly rubbed into the painful areas.

1. Flower based tincture. To prepare the medicine, you need to take 5 tbsp. spoons of flowers and pour them with 0.5 liters of vodka. Infuse the mixture for 2 weeks, then filter.
2. Fruit tincture. To prepare the drug, you need to grind 10 chestnuts. Pour them with 0.5 liters of vodka and leave for 2 weeks. After the expiration of time, filter and apply as directed.

Uses of horse chestnut oil

The oil of this plant can be purchased at the pharmacy chestnut extract, or you can cook it yourself at home. For cooking, you will need such components.

Many people know such a plant as horse chestnut, medicinal properties and contraindications, which have been known since ancient times. This is a very useful and effective form that has been popular for hundreds of years. The tree is especially valued due to its ability to favorably influence the protein composition of the blood, which helps prevent the formation of blood clots. Knowing how to take the infusion and extract prepared from the fruit will give a quick, positive result of the treatment.

Horse chestnut - a plant for many diseases

Among the many trees that grow in our area, horse chestnut is one of the most beautiful and useful. It is often also called the stomach, aesculus. The tree belongs to a large family of sapindaceae. The homeland of the chestnut is considered to be the lands of Greece.

Chestnut-based products have medicinal properties:

• bactericidal;
• hemostatic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• decongestant;
• wound healing.

In nature, the tree can grow up to 25 meters tall. The uniqueness of the plant lies in its unusual inflorescences, which take the form of a candle. At the end of flowering, fruits form in their place.

An effective remedy for hemorrhoids and inflamed veins is chestnut flower juice.

The fruits are rich in:

• esculin;
• fraxin;
• aescin;
• starch;
• tannins;
• vitamin C;
• thiamine.

Chestnut has been used for the treatment of many diseases since ancient times. For the preparation of tinctures, ointments are used not only fruits, but also leaves, bark, flowers. Despite all the medicinal properties of horse chestnut, it also has its contraindications. In order not to harm health, the product must be used very carefully.

The infusion should not be drunk by people who have:

• too thin blood;
• ulcer;
• gastritis;
• colitis;
• constipation.

You should not use chestnut-based products for women with an unstable menstrual cycle.

It is strongly not recommended to drink such a liquid for pregnant women. This can lead to dangerous consequences.

Do not use tincture for breastfeeding mothers. It can change not only the taste of milk, but also its composition.

Feature of horse chestnut extract

Its main actions are aimed at strengthening the walls of blood vessels and veins. The extract is intended for the treatment of pathology of the esophagus, rectum, venous insufficiency.

It is also used for:

• runny nose;
• sinusitis;
• bronchitis;
• angina;
• atherosclerosis;
• arthritis.

This is one of the most effective remedies for the treatment of varicose veins.

The extract is often used in complex therapy. Esculin, which is part of the product, is able to accelerate blood flow, prevent thrombosis and reduce swelling.

The instructions for use of liquid horse chestnut extract indicate that adults can drink it from 5 to 10 milliliters per day. These figures are maximum. But in order not to aggravate the condition, you should first consult a doctor.

How to take horse chestnut tincture?

In order to achieve the desired result, you should know how to properly take horse chestnut tincture. Since the effect of seeds on children has not been fully studied, it is not recommended to give such a remedy to young people. This can lead to severe poisoning. And a large amount of funds for a child is fraught with a fatal outcome.

Instructions for use of horse chestnut tincture:

1. With varicose veins, prostatitis, sciatica, 30 drops should be consumed 3 times a day.
2. For the treatment of hemorrhoids and inflammation of the veins of the lower extremities, it is recommended to drink the liquid for the first two days, 1 tablespoon once a day. If the tolerability of the drug is good, then the amount should be increased up to 3 times a day. The minimum course of treatment is from 1 to 8 weeks.
3. To get rid of the pathology of the kidneys, the remedy is taken two tablespoons four times a day.

Perfectly copes with puffiness, inflammation and venous disease ointment based on the fruits of this plant. It also has calming properties. It should be applied externally to problem areas up to 3 times a day.

Effective recipes for many diseases

In order to get rid of varicose veins once and for all, it is not necessary to go to the pharmacy and buy expensive medicines. There are various folk methods that can significantly alleviate the condition.

A simple recipe for horse chestnut tincture for varicose veins

To prepare the remedy, you will need to grind 20 grams of chestnut along with a brown shell. The resulting chips should be poured with 200 ml of vodka. In this state, the mixture will need to be infused for 20 days. It is better to keep the liquid in a glass container and in a dark place. At the same time, do not forget to shake it daily.

After the horse chestnut tincture on vodka is ready, it will need to be filtered using cheesecloth.

When using homemade tincture, it is necessary to monitor blood clotting throughout the course of treatment. To do this, it is recommended to periodically analyze.

If everything is cooked correctly, then homemade tincture will turn out no worse than store-bought.

Horse chestnut ointment for varicose veins

To prepare the mixture you will need:

• chop flowers - 10 grams;
• dry sage leaves - 10 grams;
• chopped chestnut kernels - 50 grams;
• potato starch.

Mix all components thoroughly. Add 200 ml of liquid chicken fat to them. In this state, simmer in a water bath for three hours. Then insist 12 hours at room temperature. At the end of this time, melt the product, and then strain.

Infusion for joint pain

You can alleviate the condition with the help of tincture. This liquid is used only externally.

You will need to place 50 grams of chopped chestnuts in 0.5 liters of vodka. In order to start rubbing sore spots, you just need to wait two hours.

When preparing the tincture, it is important to ensure that the chestnuts are completely covered with vodka.

Joints that are affected by arthrosis will not be disturbed if they are rubbed with a concentrated liquid. The grains are cut in half or into four parts, tightly folded into a transparent glass jar and poured with vodka, alcohol.

Infusion of chestnut flowers

A similar remedy is effective in the treatment of inflamed veins and hemorrhoidal cones. It is taken orally 30 drops in the morning and in the afternoon.

To prepare the tincture you need:

• 20 grams of freshly picked flowers;
• glass jar;
• 100 ml of vodka (alcohol is possible).

Place the flowers in vodka and insist for 7 days. Keep the mixture at room temperature. The first results will be observed in 3 weeks.

Anyone who is contraindicated in alcoholic beverages can prepare a decoction of the bark or twigs.

To do this, pour a liter of water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Then put 3 tablespoons of chopped wood into it and simmer on a small fire for 10 minutes. Drink in the morning and evening for 0.5 cups (100 milliliters).

Horse chestnut extract is the best way to improve your health. In order for the effect of the treatment to be noticed in a short time, all the rules for taking the remedy should be followed.

Horse chestnut is valued in traditional and folk medicine due to its beneficial properties. This tree has a wide distribution, grows in forests, park areas, on personal plots. It can reach 30 meters in height, bears fruit up to 30-40 years. In the preparation of various preparations, tinctures and other recipes, not only fruits are valued, but also other components of the plant - flowers, leaves, bark.

Chemical composition

Useful properties of fruits horse chestnut is represented by its chemical composition:

• saponins increase the tone of the veins, improve blood circulation, eliminate edema and activate adrenal hormones;
• glycoside reduces the risk of thrombosis, dilates blood vessels, stabilizes the central nervous system, liquefies and removes sputum from the respiratory tract;
• tannins have an astringent and protective effect;
• vitamin C strengthens the immune system, has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• vitamin K reduces bleeding, strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
• coumarin has a healing effect, increases blood clotting, prevents the development of tumor cells;
• pectin removes toxins and salts from the body, improves the intestinal microflora, prevents the development of atherosclerotic plaques, promotes regeneration;
• carotene protects the body from the effects of carcinogens, improves the state of the cardiovascular system;
• organic acids remove toxins and slags from the body, prevent the processes of fermentation and putrefaction in the intestines;
• fatty oils promote tissue regeneration, eliminate inflammation, regulate metabolism;
• flavonoids reduce blood pressure and heart rate, strengthen capillaries, increase bile formation;
• starch is converted into glucose and provides the body with energy.

In addition to fruits, similar beneficial properties have flowers plants. Horse chestnut bark rich in tannins, saponin escin, and glycoside (esculin). have:

• flavonoids - isoquercitrin, quercetin;
• tannins;
• routine;
• spireoside;
• astragalin;
• carotenoids.

From trace elements leaves, flowers and fruits of horse chestnut contain selenium, boron, calcium, chromium, barium, iodine, iron, zinc, nickel.

What are the benefits of horse chestnut?

The chemical composition of fruits and other components of horse chestnut in pharmacology is valued for the following effects:

• anti-inflammatory action;
• antimicrobial;
• bactericidal;
• venotonic;
• wound healing;
• regenerating;
• painkiller;
• astringent;
• diuretic;
• antioxidant;
• decongestant;
• antipyretic;
• antitumor;
• anti-sclerotic.

The pharmacological properties of horse chestnut make its use in demand in traditional and folk medicine. The components of the plant can act as both the main and complementary ingredient in the prevention and treatment of various diseases.

What diseases is it used for?

Due to the pharmacological properties of horse chestnut, its components are used in the solution of the following body problems:

• viscosity and increased blood clotting, thrombosis;
• increased permeability of the walls of blood vessels;
• blood flow disorders, including pathology of venous vessels;
• disturbed work of capillaries;
• decreased efficiency of the kidneys and liver;
• inflammatory processes and edema;
• disorders in digestion, production of gastric juice and gallbladder secretion;
• accumulation in the body of salts, toxins, radionuclides;

Preparations and prescriptions based on fruits and other components of horse chestnut are used in the prevention and treatment of the following diseases:

• hypertension, atherosclerosis, other diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• increased blood clotting, venous congestion, thrombophlebitis, thromboembolism;
• spasms, trophic ulcers and mechanical damage to blood vessels, endarteritis, anemia;
• hemorrhoids, bleeding of various origins, including uterine;
• pulmonary tuberculosis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, whooping cough, pneumonia, shortness of breath, respiratory diseases;
• pathology of the genitourinary system, gallbladder, spleen;
• increased acidity and stomach ulcers, gastritis;
• rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, joint pain, gout;
• neuralgia, diarrhea, leukemia, malaria, menopause, muscle inflammation, prostate adenoma, prostatitis.

Horse chestnut components are mainly used in the treatment of leg diseases, especially varicose veins. Often, these ingredients in various forms are used for hemorrhoids and other similar pathologies. However, the range of application of horse chestnut is much wider, which makes it a popular product in traditional and folk medicine.

Medications

Among traditional medicine preparations based on horse chestnut, there are:

• "Aescusan" - a group of angioprotectors, represented by tablets, dragees, drops, ointments and gels, is used to strengthen the walls of blood vessels in venous insufficiency, improves blood flow;
• creams based on horse chestnut or its extract - a large group of products intended for the treatment of varicose veins, reduces leg fatigue, swelling and pain;
• horse chestnut ointments are used to strengthen blood vessels in varicose veins, reduce swelling and inflammation, reduce fatigue and muscle cramps;
• the gel is used for the prevention and treatment of venous diseases of the legs, promotes recovery processes;
• gel-balm based on horse chestnut and leech extract - the remedy is also used for venous insufficiency, has a decongestant and anti-inflammatory effect, improves blood circulation.

In addition to traditional medicines, horse chestnut components are also used in folk recipes.

Application in traditional medicine

In folk medicine, horse chestnut is used mainly in the form of tinctures and decoctions. For their preparation, any components of the plant are used - fruits, their peel, flowers, tree bark, leaves.

Each ingredient is collected at the certain time when the concentration of nutrients in it reaches its highest value:

• horse chestnut bark is harvested in spring from trees that are three years old, dried and stored in a ventilated room for no longer than a year;
• tree flowers are harvested during the flowering period in May-June, after harvesting the inflorescences are laid out in the sun, then dried in the shade;
• leaves are harvested from May to September, they are also stored for no longer than a year;
• horse chestnut fruits ripen in August-September, for drying the kernels are separated from the peel, the latter can also be used in tinctures and other recipes.

The resulting raw materials can be further used for the preparation of preventive and therapeutic traditional medicine. During the collection process, attention is paid to the appearance and quality of the ingredients - they should not be affected by pests or diseases.

flower juice

In the treatment of varicose veins, juice from horse chestnut flowers is often used. For cooking, you need fresh inflorescences, they are crushed with a blender, and then the juice is squeezed out.

The agent is taken in 25-30 drops, diluted in 1 tbsp. l. water. The course of treatment is twice a day for 3-4 weeks. Internal use also helps with inflammation of hemorrhoids. External use relieves joint pain and gout.

Fresh juice of horse chestnut flowers is effective for varicose veins, regular use relieves symptoms within a month.

Ointment

To prepare the ointment, take 5 fruits of horse chestnut or 5 tbsp. l. dried flowers. Raw materials are poured with half a liter of vegetable oil and boiled in a water bath for an hour. After cooling, the product is filtered.

The tool is used for application to areas with inflamed vessels, used 2-3 times a day.

To prepare a special ointment for varicose veins, a similar recipe is used. 5 st. l. dried horse chestnut flowers mixed with 2 tbsp. l. sage, 4 tbsp. l. chamomile and 1 tbsp. l. potato starch.

200 g of chicken fat are added to the resulting mass, the mixture is heated for three hours in a water bath. After that, the mixture is infused for 12 hours, then boiled again. In the future, the ointment is filtered and used for application to problem areas.

Oil

As anti-cellulite agent many people use horse chestnut oil. For its preparation:

• 100 g of crushed horse chestnut and basil are poured into a glass of olive oil;
• means insist from 10 days;
• the resulting mixture is filtered, a few drops of grapefruit oil are added.

The tool can be used for manual and hardware anti-cellulite massage. It also helps with swelling and varicose veins. If necessary, an oil extract can also be made on the basis of other vegetable oils. The finished product can also be purchased at a pharmacy.

Alcohol tincture of flowers

To prepare an alcohol tincture from horse chestnut flowers, you will need 10 grams of crushed raw materials. They are poured with 100 ml of vodka and infused for a week in a dark place, shaking occasionally.

The resulting tincture is taken 15-30 drops three times a day. The tool is used as a medicine for hemorrhoids, thrombosis, varicose veins, prostatitis. When applied externally, the tincture helps with sciatica, gout, rheumatic and arthritic pains.

For treatment joints and myositis also use an alcohol tincture based on horse chestnut flowers. Preparation - 40 g of dried inflorescences are poured with a liter of medical alcohol. Keep sealed for a week, then filter. The tincture is used to rub the joints and muscles for pain.

Fruit tincture

Horse chestnut tincture can be prepared according to the same recipe and proportions as the remedy using flowers. Another recipe suggests cutting the fruit into quarters and filling a glass container with them.

To obtain a tincture, the container is filled to the brim with vodka and tightly sealed. Insist in a dark place for three weeks. The tincture is used for compresses arthrosis, arthritis and rheumatism.

Another Alcohol Tincture Recipe Can Help for Healing prostatitis. To prepare the medicine, horse chestnut fruits and flowers are mixed in equal proportions. The resulting mixture is poured with vodka in a ratio of 1:10.

The tincture is corked in a glass jar, placed for a month in a dark place. Take 15 drops 4 times a day, the duration of the course is determined individually. From gout alcohol tincture helps according to the following recipe:

• 50 g of crushed horse chestnut flowers are poured into 800 ml of alcohol;
• the solution is placed in a dark place, insisted for 10 days;
• filter, moisten gauze and use as a compress, applying to the affected area.

Decoction of flowers

To prepare a decoction of horse chestnut flowers, mix 5 g of inflorescences and bark. Raw materials in an enamel bowl are poured with 200 ml of boiled water, then boiled over low heat for half an hour. Tsedat through a triple layer of gauze.

The resulting broth in the first two days take 1 tbsp. l. once a day, then gradually increase consumption to 2-3 tbsp. l. The course of treatment depends on the disease - with varicose veins, the decoction is taken up to 8 weeks, with hemorrhoids - up to a month.

A decoction can be used to relieve uterine bleeding, douching with whites and to relieve inflammation of the prostate.

At radiation sickness use a different recipe: 20 g of crushed flowers are poured into 300 ml of water and brought to a boil. After that, the broth is infused for 10 hours, filtered. It is necessary to take 100 ml three times a day.

Infusion of flowers

Making an infusion of horse chestnut flowers helps with blood disorders and brain tumors. The recipe is simple - 1 tbsp. l. dried inflorescences pour a glass of water and heat almost to a boil.

The product is left to infuse for 6 hours, then filtered and left in the refrigerator for storage. Take a quarter cup several times a day, but not more than a liter. The course of treatment is three weeks, followed by a two-week break.

Fruit decoction

Based on horse chestnut fruit decoctions are not prepared. The kernels are used mainly in tinctures and infusions. For decoction, the peel of ripe fruits is often used.

To prepare 15 grams of raw materials, pour a glass of water, boil for 15 minutes and insist for an hour and a half. The decoction obtained is used for menopause for morning and evening washing. The tool allows you to relieve itching and dryness.

Extract

Horse chestnut extract is rich in saponins, especially escin. The tool is used to eliminate venous stasis and inflammation. It also helps strengthen capillaries and protect them from damage.

Horse chestnut extract is also used in the treatment pathologies of the cardiovascular system. Helps to normalize blood pressure, is used in the treatment of hypertension and atherosclerosis, as well as in the treatment of thrombophlebitis.

At home, chestnut extract is not prepared; for use, it is bought in a pharmacy ready-made.

leaf application

Horse chestnut leaves are used:

• in the preparation of medicinal preparations for the normalization of water and salt balance, as well as for the treatment of rheumatism and gout;
• for the preparation of decoctions and infusions - the leaves help with colds, improve the condition of the respiratory tract, are used in the treatment of bronchitis and bronchial asthma, tracheitis, pneumonia and tuberculosis;
• as a prophylactic - the leaves calm the nervous system, normalize sleep, relieve stress and nervous tension.

Traditional medicine does not offer a clear recipe for making decoctions or infusions from horse chestnut leaves. The tool is used as needed at the rate of 1-2 tbsp. l. to a glass of water.

To prepare a decoction, the mixture is steamed in a water bath; for infusion, it is poured with boiling water and infused for one to several hours. In the preparation of tincture, the period increases to several days, the raw material is poured with vodka and kept in a dark place.

Water infusion from the bark

For the preparation of water infusion, take the dried bark of horse chestnut. 1 tsp crushed raw materials are poured with two glasses of boiled cooled water, insisted for 8 hours. Strained means take 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day.

An aqueous infusion of horse chestnut bark helps with diseases of the gallbladder, kidneys, intestines, as well as inflammation of the respiratory tract.

Contraindications for use

Horse chestnut has certain contraindications for use. plant components not used in the following cases:

• low blood clotting;
• severe pathologies of the kidneys and liver;
• hypotension;
• pregnancy;
• irregular menstruation;
• individual intolerance.

Among side effects allocate:

• allergic reaction;
• nausea, heartburn;
• constipation, flatulence.

When applied externally, irritation may occur. In this case, the use of horse chestnut and preparations based on it is stopped. When lactating about the use of horse chestnut, consult a doctor.

Chestnut-based medicines should also be carefully used for gastric ulcers and significant cardiac pathologies.

In addition to the above, there are contraindications to the use of alcohol tincture based on flowers and fruits of horse chestnut:

• pregnancy and lactation;
• age up to 16 years;
• atonic constipation;
• hypoacid acute gastritis.

In the matter of a long course of treatment with horse chestnut tincture, consultation with a specialist is necessary. It is also recommended to check the level of blood prothrombin during the use of this drug.

Flowering chestnut trees are a symbol of warm spring and a natural decoration of city streets. The tree also pleases in the fall - what kind of crafts adults and children do not come up with from brown "nuts". But few people know that horse chestnut has unique healing properties and helps to maintain health for many years.

Horse chestnut (esculus, stomach) is a deciduous tree from the Sapindaceae family. The homeland of the plant is the Balkan Mountains. In 1812, it was brought to the Crimea and spread to the territories of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus. Today, the chestnut tree is widely distributed in countries with a temperate climate (southern Europe, East Asia, northern India, North America), especially prefers fertile, moist, loamy soil. Plants are planted in squares, parks, along roads with a decorative purpose, they coexist well with linden, maple, alder. Alcohol, high-quality oil and starch are extracted from the seeds of the plant, and they are used as feed for livestock. Flowers, bark and fruits are used to make medicines. The wood is well polished and used in the furniture industry. In ancient times, shoes and musical instruments were made from wood.

Many people confuse horse chestnut and edible (Castanea Tourn) - these are two completely different species. Edible chestnut grows in warm countries - compare fried fruits with sunflower seeds in our conditions. They are also used as an independent dish, added to sauces, salads and some desserts as an additional ingredient. The taste is specific, slightly sweet.

All types of chestnut (and there are more than 2 dozen of them) are valuable honey plants. Chestnut honey is transparent, liquid, colorless, crystallizes quickly and easily, sometimes has a slight bitter taste.

Morphological description

The trees reach a height of up to 30 m, the trunk in diameter reaches up to 1 m. The crown is sprawling, domed, the trunk is cylindrical.

Horse chestnut leaves are complex, large, have 5-7 fingers up to 20 cm long, arranged oppositely on long petioles, without stipules. Form a dense crown.

The flowers are bisexual, bell-shaped, irregular, white with spots, yellow at first, and after they cease to secrete nectar - red, have a size of about 2 cm, collected in pyramidal erect brushes 10-30 cm long. The flower cover is double: a green calyx represents 5 sepals, fused at the base, and a whitish corolla, having a pink base, consists of 5 free petals. One of them (between 3 and 4 sepals), very small, sometimes completely absent. Stamens 7, on long and bent filaments, pistil 1, represented by 3 carpels. The ovary is upper three-nested, each nest contains 2 ovules, one of them looks up, the second down, the column is long. Flowering occurs in May-June: the nectar is rich in sucrose (up to 75%). Horse chestnut with double flowers does not produce nectar.

1 panicle contains from 1 to 5 fruits that ripen in August-September. The fruit of the tree is a fleshy tricuspid spiny box with green spines. The cusps of the fruit open - inside there is a large brown seed 2-4 cm in diameter with a whitish scar. The embryo is bent, protein is absent. It begins to bear fruit 15-25 years after planting.

Chemical composition

The seeds of the plant contain:

• saponins, about 10%(escin, artrescin, fraxin). They lower blood viscosity, increase the tone of veins, eliminate the effects of venous congestion and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. Activate the production of adrenal hormones, eliminate puffiness;
• glycoside (esculin). It reduces the permeability of capillary walls, increases the antithrombotic properties of blood serum, as well as the production of antithrombin, accelerates blood filling of the veins, promotes vasodilation. Stabilizes the central nervous system, has a slight diuretic effect, dilutes and removes sputum;
• coumarins. Stop the growth of tumor cells, accelerate wound healing, help reduce blood clotting and reduce the risk of thrombosis;
• pectins. Remove metal salts, radionuclides, destroy pathogenic intestinal flora, eliminate constipation, prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, accelerate tissue regeneration;
• organic acids. They inhibit the processes of decay and fermentation in the intestines, remove toxins, toxic substances, improve the condition of blood vessels;
• fatty oil (up to 6%). Participates in tissue regeneration, eliminates inflammation, regulates metabolism;
• flavonoids (rutin and others). Reduce the permeability and fragility of capillaries, reduce arterial and intraocular pressure, slow down the heart rate, increase bile formation;
• starch up to 49.5%. Converts to glucose and is a source of energy;
• mucus. Eliminate inflammation, accelerate wound healing and improve sputum excretion;
• lecithin. Activates oxidative processes, participates in the metabolism of fats, the formation of hemoglobin and red blood cells, improves the functioning of the central nervous system and heart, increases resistance to toxins;
• vitamins C, A, group B and K. They have a complex positive effect (strengthen the immune system, eliminate inflammation, participate in metabolic reactions, etc.;
• tannins. Protein cells are denatured, which creates a protective film with bactericidal and astringent properties.

Tannins, saponin escin and glycoside esculin were found in the bark of trees. The leaves contain flavonoids (isoquercitrin, quercetin), as well as tannins, rutin, spireoside, astragalin, carotenoids, micro and macro elements (selenium, boron, calcium, silver, chromium, barium, iodine, iron, zinc, nickel).

Collection and storage

The fruits are harvested in the summer while they are in their shells (green cocoons with long spines). In addition, flowers, roots, leaves, bark, as well as shells are characterized by healing properties.

• Chestnut fruits or seeds are freed from the pericarp, dried on racks, spread out in an even layer. Drying takes a long time, about 3-4 weeks. Can be dried in a dryer at a temperature of 40 - 60 degrees for 2 - 3 days. If the fruits are dried properly, they have a rich brown color, a shiny surface, a dense outer capsule with a gray spot at the very base of the fruit, and astringent taste. Shelf life - 12 months.
• The bark is harvested in spring from branches that are 3-5 years old. Dry in the attic or any room with good ventilation. Shelf life - 12 months.
• The leaves are harvested from May to September, while they are still green and do not fall off. It is better to collect from young trees up to 3 meters high. Dry under a canopy, in a room with good ventilation or in a dryer, spreading out in an even layer. When drying in natural conditions, the raw materials are periodically turned over. The finished raw material remains green, the petioles should break when bent. Shelf life - 24 months.
• Inflorescences are collected until dry flowers appear, dried in their natural form, spread out in a thin layer. Shelf life - 12 months.

Medicinal properties

Plant preparations have an effect on the protein composition of the blood, reduce blood clotting, have a vasoconstrictive and antithrombotic effect, as a result of which they are used to treat diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

They have the following actions:

• anti-inflammatory;
• antimicrobial;
• bactericidal;
• venotonic;
• blood-thinning;
• wound healing;
• regenerating;
• painkillers;
• hemostatic;
• diuretic;
• antioxidant;
• decongestant;
• antitumor;
• diaphoretic;
• antipyretic;
• astringent;
• anti-sclerotic.

How useful is horse chestnut and for what diseases is it used?

Let us summarize the beneficial effects of the substances that make up the chestnut. Plant preparations:

• lower viscosity, slow down blood clotting and prevent thrombosis (increase the production of antithrombin and prevent the formation of blood clots);
• reduce the permeability of the vascular walls;
• accelerate blood flow;
• dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure;
• remove cholesterol;
• activate venous blood flow;
• prevent stasis in capillaries;
• normalize the work of the kidneys and liver;
• eliminate inflammation, swelling;
• improve digestion, normalize the acidity of gastric juice and the secretory activity of the gallbladder;
• reduce joint pain;
• remove salts, harmful substances, radionuclides from the body.

The use of horse chestnut is relevant for:

• hypertension;
• atherosclerosis;
• increased blood clotting;
• heart disease;
• inflammation and varicose veins;
• venous congestion;
• vasospasm;
• thrombophlebitis;
• thromboembolism;
• endarteritis;
• trophic ulcers;
• traumatic vascular injury;
• anemia;
• hemorrhoids;
• bleeding of any origin, including uterine;
• pulmonary tuberculosis;
• bronchitis;
• shortness of breath
• bronchial asthma;
• pneumonia;
• whooping cough;
• SARS and acute respiratory infections;
• diseases of the genitourinary system, gallbladder, spleen;
• increased acidity of gastric juice;
• gastritis and gastric ulcer (without exacerbation);
• neuralgia;
• rheumatoid arthritis;
• radiculitis;
• joint pain;
• gout;
• diarrhea
• prostate adenoma and prostatitis;
• menopause;
• malaria;
• leukemia;
• radiation sickness;
• anemia;
• muscle inflammation.

Most often, horse chestnut is used for leg health, however, as you can see from the list above, the medicinal properties of the plant are much wider.

Horse chestnut preparations that can be bought at a pharmacy

Traditional medicine recipes with horse chestnut

Fresh juice from flowers

Collect fresh flowers, grind them in a blender and squeeze the juice through a couple of layers of gauze. Take 25-30 drops, diluted in 1 tbsp. water, 2 times a day. within 3-4 weeks. It is recommended for varicose veins of the lower extremities, with inflammation of hemorrhoids. Externally used to lubricate the joints with gout.

This remedy is considered the most effective in the non-starting form of varicose veins and helps to almost completely get rid of the symptoms after 1 month.

Horse chestnut extract (extract)

The extract is rich in escin and other saponins, which eliminate venous congestion, inflammation of the veins and protect capillaries from damage. Helps to normalize blood pressure, is used in the treatment of thrombophlebitis, hypertension, atherosclerosis. Getting an extract at home is difficult.

Ointment

Take 5 fruits or 5 tbsp. dry flowers, chop, pour 500 ml of vegetable oil, put in a water bath (about 1 hour), cool and strain. Apply to areas with inflamed vessels and repeat the procedure 2-3 times a day.

Ointment for varicose veins

Take 5 tbsp. l. dried chestnut flowers and 2 tbsp. l. medicinal sage, add 4 tbsp. l. pharmaceutical chamomile and 1 tbsp. potato starch. Add 200 gr. chicken fat and heat the mixture in a water bath for 3 hours, leave for another 12 hours and boil again. After the mass must be filtered, periodically lubricate the affected areas of the lower extremities.

Alcohol tincture of dried flowers/fruits

You can use a pharmacy tincture or cook it: 10 gr. chop and pour 100 ml of vodka from chestnut flowers or fruits, peeled from the "shell", put in a dark place to infuse for 1 week, shake occasionally and filter at the end. Take 15-30 drops 3 per day.

It is used to treat thrombosis, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, prostatitis. Helps with sciatica, gout, rheumatic and arthritic pains (rubbed externally).

Alcoholic tincture of horse chestnut fruit

Cut the fruits into 4 parts, fill them with a glass container, pour vodka to the top and close the lid. Insist for 3 weeks in the dark. Moisten a clean cotton cloth with this tincture and apply as a compress for arthrosis, arthritis and rheumatism.

water infusion

Take 1 tsp. chopped chestnut bark, pour 2 cups of boiled chilled water, leave the mixture for 8 hours, strain and take 2 tbsp. four times a day. with diseases of the gallbladder, kidneys, intestines and inflammation of the respiratory tract.

Decoction

Take 5 gr. flowers and the same amount of bark, chop, place in an enamel bowl and pour 200 ml of boiling water. Boil on low heat for half an hour and strain through 3 layers of gauze. Bring the volume to the original water, drink 1 tbsp. 1 time per day for the first 2 days, in the following days - 2 tbsp. at the reception and further - 3 tbsp. appointment.

With inflammation of the veins of the extremities, take up to 8 weeks, with hemorrhoids - 1-4 weeks. It also helps with anemia, shortness of breath, rheumatism. Recommended for diseases of the gallbladder, spleen, liver, anemia, edema, pulmonary tuberculosis and bronchitis. It helps to improve digestion and eliminate inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, it is also recommended for uterine bleeding. It is used in gynecology for douching with whites and in urology to relieve inflammation of the prostate.

Chestnut kvass

Take 25 fruits, cut into 2 halves, put in a gauze bag and place a small stone there. Place the bag in a jar with a volume of 3-5 liters and pour 2.5 liters of chilled boiled water into it. Add 1 cup sugar, 1 cup whey. It is important that the gauze bag is at the bottom of the jar. Top with a triple layer of gauze and put in a dark, warm place for fermentation. After 2 weeks, kvass is considered ready - it must be filtered and filtered. You can take it 2 glasses for 1 month.

Chestnuts do not need to be thrown away - pour them again with water, add 1 glass of sugar and 3 liters of water. This kvass will be ready in 1-2 days.

The drink effectively quenches thirst, helps the body cleanse itself of radionuclides, heavy metals, helps restore the epithelium of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, and is a source of useful substances that improve health.

Decoction with menopause (for external use)

Take 15 gr. peels from ripe fruits and pour 1 glass of water, boil this mixture for a quarter of an hour and leave for another 1.5 hours. Use this decoction for washing, morning and evening: it will help eliminate itching and dryness.

Decoction of hemorrhoids

Take 5 gr. bark and flowers of the plant, pour 250 ml of boiling water over them and boil the preparation for about half an hour over low heat. After the drug has cooled down, it must be drained and topped up with boiled water to the original volume. Drink 1 tbsp. twice a day for 1 week.

Infusion to combat prostatitis

Dried chestnut fruits and flowers, well chopped (1 part), mix with 10 parts of vodka, place in a liter jar, close the lid and put the dishes in a cool, dark place for a month. Take 4 times a day. 15 drops. The duration of the course is set individually.

Effective infusion for blood pathologies and brain tumors

Take 1 tbsp. dried flowers pour 1 cup of water, bring to a boil and immediately remove from heat. You can not boil the composition! Leave the drug to infuse for 6 hours, strain and refrigerate. Take ¼ cup several times a day, maximum 1 liter per day. To accept 3 weeks, then 2 weeks of a break and again a course.

Infusion for the treatment of joints and myositis

Take 40 gr. dry flowers, add 1 liter of pure medical alcohol, leave for 7 days and strain. Use this infusion to rub the joints and muscles in case of pain.

gout remedy

Dry, finely chopped flowers weighing 50 gr. pour 800 ml of alcohol, insist 10 days in the dark. Filter, moisten gauze folded in three layers and apply to the affected joint.

Decoction for radiation sickness

Finely chop the chestnut flowers, take 20 gr. raw materials and pour 300 ml of water, boil and put in heat for 10 hours. Filter and drink 100 ml three times a day.

Anti-cellulite oil

Take 1 glass of olive oil, pour 100 gr. chopped horse chestnut and the same amount of chopped basil. Leave the remedy for at least 10 days, strain, add a few drops of grapefruit essential oil and use the oil for anti-cellulite massage (manual, hardware).

Scrub for face and body

Grind young chestnut fruits to a homogeneous fine mass, add a little honey or fatty sour cream and use as a natural scrub that perfectly cleanses and heals the skin of the face and body. This tool should be used very carefully, without intensive rubbing, so as not to cause skin irritation.

Treatment of sciatica

Take interior lard, add chopped chestnut in a ratio of 1: 1, mix. Apply the composition to the cabbage leaf, apply to the sore areas of the back, tying a woolen scarf over it. It is especially recommended to carry out such treatment at night.

Horse chestnut with leeches

Plant preparations are often prescribed in parallel with hirudotherapy: enzymes secreted by leeches into the patient's blood thin the blood and help eliminate venous congestion.

Horse chestnut contraindications and side effects

Plant preparations are contraindicated in:

• reduced blood clotting;
• severe pathologies of the kidneys and liver;
• hypotension;
• pregnancy;
• instability of the menstrual cycle;
• individual intolerance.

Perhaps the development of an allergic reaction, constipation, nausea and heartburn, flatulence. When applied externally, irritation may occur. If unusual reactions occur, the drug should be stopped and blood prothrombin should be monitored.

Use with caution in stomach ulcers and serious heart disease.

As for the treatment with horse chestnut while breastfeeding, you should coordinate the intake with your doctor.

Chestnut-based tincture can get rid of many diseases. Its use will help solve the problems of veins, joints and others. Read more on…

To make a tincture on chestnut nuts, you do not need to make much effort. You need to prepare raw materials in the fall, when the fruits themselves fall off. It is best to do this in places far from roads and city bustle. It is worth noting that in recipes you can use both vodka and 40 degree alcohol diluted with water.

Recipe #1

Ingredients:

• chestnut nuts - 50 g;
• vodka - 500 ml.

Cooking

1. Put the fruits in a half-liter vessel.
2. Add vodka.
3. Close the lid tightly.
4. Leave to infuse for 14 days and periodically raise the sediment.
5. After, strain the drink and you can use it.

Recipe #2

Ingredients:

• chestnut powder - 3 tbsp. l;
• alcohol 40 degrees - 500 ml.

Cooking

1. Pour 3 tablespoons of crushed fruit powder into a vessel.
2. Add alcohol to it.
3. Infuse for about 3 weeks and then strain.

Recipe #3

Ingredients:

• chestnut fruits - 300 g;
• vodka - 500 ml.

Cooking

1. Peel chestnut fruits.
2. Finely chop them.
3. Place in a dark glass jar.
4. Fill with vodka.
5. Close it tightly and leave for a week.
6. The drink must be filtered and it will be ready.

Recipe #4

Ingredients:

• crushed chestnut fruits - 1 cup;
• burdock juice - 1 glass;
• alcohol 40 degrees - 200 ml.

Cooking

1. Send all ingredients to a vessel.
2. Leave to infuse for 10 days and after that the remedy is ready.

Properties

Chestnut fruits contain many valuable substances, so they are used for alternative medicine medicines. They include:

• starch;
• tannins;
• carotene;
• spireoside;
• quercetin;
• zecin;
• aescin;
• vitamins A, C, B;
• acids.

The fruits also contain a lot of calcium, iron, zinc and boron. Their main properties are to improve the strength of blood vessels and capillaries. Chestnut nuts prevent the formation of blood clots, thin the blood, stimulate the amount of cholesterol in the blood. They also act as anti-inflammatory and tonic agents.

This drug helps to remove puffiness from soft tissues and improve the processes of the cardiovascular system. It will also help cure diseases of the veins, joints, liver, tuberculosis, gastritis, rheumatism, sciatica and gout. The medicine can be taken orally and used as compresses, rubbing and lotions.

Rest assured, this tool will not disappoint you. It is more beneficial to humans than many chemical preparations. Because of its properties, it is used for a wide variety of health problems and it really relieves painful symptoms. The medicine is useful even for colds. It will help to eliminate cough, relieve inflammation and disinfect the throat.

Application

From varicose veins

This is a great remedy for varicose veins. For treatment, it should be consumed before meals, 30 drops every day. You need to drink the medicine for three weeks. It can also be used as compresses and rubs. Its properties will help relieve tension, fatigue and heaviness in the legs, as well as normalize the condition of the veins. Thus, chestnut tincture will help alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins.

For veins

As you know, this drug has a great effect on the circulatory system and improves the general condition of the veins. Therefore, if you use the tincture as a compress to the affected area before going to bed, the painful symptoms of the veins will disappear. The course should last a week, with an interruption of 10 days. This method will help remove puffiness, a blue tint of the skin, the veins will stop hurting and the swelling of the veins will noticeably decrease.

Even instead of compresses, you can simply drink it in a course of three weeks, before eating 35 drops, previously diluted in water. Do not forget to drink the medicine every day, otherwise you should not start treatment.

For joints

For diseased joints, chestnut medicine is especially useful. If it is rubbed into the affected areas daily, the pain in the joints will disappear forever. Rheumatism, sciatica, osteochondrosis will be left behind if you drink the tincture regularly for three weeks. To do this, it is enough to take it 35 drops up to three times a day, and then the general condition of your joints will noticeably improve.

With prostatitis

Many men suffer from such a common disease as prostatitis. This disease is caused by painful urination, decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Therefore, it is useful for men suffering from this disease to drink chestnut tincture. You need to take it, as in other cases - 35 drops daily before meals. This medicine also helps to increase potency.

Contraindications

Chestnut tincture is contraindicated in people suffering from thrombocytopenia and other diseases associated with blood clotting. Also, if there is a personal intolerance to the substances of the drug, it should not be used. Since this drug is alcohol, it is prohibited for pregnant women, nursing mothers, as well as children under 18 years of age. It is not yet recommended to take medicine for menstrual cycle disorders, gastritis, constipation and hypertension.

It should be noted that medicinal chestnut tinctures should be used strictly according to the prescription and not to exceed the dose. Otherwise, non-compliance with the rules will lead to adverse health consequences.

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