What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, flesh-colored, blue or purple veins often found on the calf or on the leg. They often appear twisted and bulging, may be swollen and raised above the surface of the skin, and can become quite painful.

Veins most commonly affected are those in your legs and feet, since standing and walking upright increases the pressure in the veins in your lower body. Spider veins are similar to varicose veins, but they are just smaller and usually found on the legs and face (and are harmless).

For many people, varicose veins are just unsightly, but for others, varicose veins can cause aching pain and discomfort. Varicose veins can also signal a higher risk of problems with circulation.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Every day, the heart pumps blood filled with oxygen and nutrients to the whole body. Arteries carry blood from the heart towards the body parts. Veins carry oxygen-poor blood from the body back to the heart.

Veins have valves that act as one-way flaps to stop the blood from flowing backwards as it moves up the legs. If the one-way valves become weak, blood can leak back into the vein and collect there. Pooled blood enlarges the vein and it becomes varicose.

The causes of varicose veins vary from person to person, and many factors can contribute to the risk of developing varicose veins. Causes of varicose veins include increasing age, having family members with vein problems or being born with weak vein valves. Other causes of varicose veins are hormonal changes due to menopause, pregnancy and puberty. Similarly so can obesity, leg injury, prolonged standing and other things that weaken vein valves. Varicose veins symptoms can cause also include sores, skin ulcers and rashes on the skin tissue around the varicose veins.

Help for Varicose Veins

Conventional treatment often includes sclerotherapy (for spider veins), where the doctor injects a solution into the vein that causes the vein walls to seal shut. Also common methods of treatment are laser surgery or surgical removal of the varicose veins.

The content of this eBook is intended for informational purposes only.

It is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Nothing in this eBook is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this eBook or on ANY website.

Natural Remedies for Varicose Veins

Many herbal and homeopathic remedies have been used to promote circulation, keep a healthy flow of blood pumping through the body, and serve as a natural remedy for varicose veins. Astragalus membranaceous is a well-known revitalizing herb used for boosting circulation, while Ruscus acluteatus is known extensively in Europe to improve circulation and relieve pain and discomfort associated with leg conditions-- thus serving as a natural remedy for varicose veins.

Anther natural remedy for varicose veins includes homeopathic ingredients such as Rhus tox, Zincum metallicum and Magnesium phosphate. All help to promote health in the lower limbs and keep lymph and blood flowing freely. Skin health can be promoted through homeopathic ingredients such as Natrium muriaticum, Kalium muriaticum and Kalium sulphate to distribute oxygen throughout the body and to each individual cell, helping to keep cell membranes healthy.

By providing essential oxygen to inflamed or infected cells, these ingredients effectively assist healing, reduce inflammation and remove infected or dead cells.

Tips for the Prevention of Varicose Veins

● Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun and to limit spider veins on the face.

● Exercise regularly to improve your leg strength, circulation, and vein strength. Focus on exercises that work your legs, such as walking or running.

● Control your weight to avoid placing too much pressure on your legs. ● Do not cross your legs while sitting and always elevate your legs when

resting as much as possible. ● Do not stand or sit for long periods of time. If you must stand for a

long time, shift your weight from one leg to the other every few minutes. If you must sit for long periods of time, stand up and move around or take a short walk every 30 minutes.

● Wear elastic support stockings and avoid tight clothing that constricts your waist, groin or legs.

● Eat a low-salt diet rich in high-fiber foods. Eating fiber reduces the chances of constipation – which can contribute to varicose veins. High fiber foods include fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, like bran. Eating too much salt can cause you to retain water and cause further swelling in the legs, feet or ankles.

The Natural Approach

While Western medicine has become the norm in many cultures, it is not the only treatment option. Conventional Western medicine (often called allopathic or orthodox medicine) is the system of medicine taught at most medical schools, and many pharmaceutical and synthetic medicines are manufactured and marketed according to the principles of allopathic medicine.

Because most of us in the Western world have grown up in a society in which

allopathic medicine is the prevailing norm, we forget that only a few decades ago, homeopathic, herbal and other natural medicines were commonly available and freely used-- even by conventional doctors. While there are often heated debates about which system of medicine is ‘better’ than the other, many responsible doctors (whether they are allopathic or not) recognize that both have a role to play in the treatment program.

Natural medicine has often been frowned upon by conventional doctors, especially by those who do not have sufficient knowledge of these medicines. However, it is encouraging to note that some medical schools are now beginning to re-introduce it into their course work, thereby providing doctors with a wider range of treatment options from which to choose. In many countries, especially in Europe, India and China, natural and homeopathic medicines are commonly prescribed by conventional doctors and represent a significant part of the total annual drug sales.

Naturopathy is a branch of medicine (just as allopathy is a branch of medicine) which operates according to the underlying philosophy that the body has an innate capacity to heal itself. While natural medicines are often called ‘alternative’ or ‘complimentary’ medicines, they are, in fact, a unique and independent form of medicine in their own right, well able to treat a variety of conditions. Perhaps the term ‘holistic’ medicine is more apt, given the broad range of treatment options and approaches which are to be found within the practice of natural medicine. This encompasses many different disciplines, including herbalism, homeopathy, iridology, osteopathy, chiropractic, therapeutic massage techniques, aromatherapy, acupuncture and many, many more.

Most naturopaths will use a variety of treatment modalities in order to treat their patients in a holistic way to support health, relieve symptoms and prevent future disease. In fact, even the World Health Organization defines health as being "... more than simply the absence of illness. It is the active state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being." This is a wonderfully clear description of holistic or natural medicine, which strives to support health (thereby relieving or preventing symptoms), rather than simply eliminating disease.

Although allopathic medicine certainly has a role to play and has made a tremendous contribution to medical science during the past century, there is a growing perception that it is not the only answer. In many cases, holistic medicine can accomplish just as much, if not more – without the risk of side effects, addiction and sacrifice to health so commonly associated with pharmaceutical drugs. Contrary to common perception, and provided that they are manufactured in the correct way, natural medicines can work quickly and safely to promote healing.

In many cases, they can succeed where pharmaceutical drugs have failed. Despite frequent reports that they are ‘unproven’ and ‘untested’, the opposite is true. Natural medicines have a long history of usage and there is a wealth of empirical evidence to support their effectiveness and safety. In addition, active clinical research is carried out by many academic hospitals and universities to support the extensive traditional and empirical evidence behind natural medicines.

It is also important to know that, like any medicine, herbal and homeopathic medicines must be manufactured in the correct way, following acceptable

procedures and manufacturing methods to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety. Due to the recent rise in popularity of natural remedies, many companies have sprung up to take advantage of the market. Unfortunately, not all of them are equipped to manufacture to the correct standards, often resulting in a flood of inferior (and sometimes even unsafe) remedies onto the market – and giving natural remedies a bad name.

Even some pharmaceutical companies have rushed to claim their market share by producing so-called ‘standardized’ extracts of herbs and offering these as superior to the tried and tested methods of naturopathic manufacturing. Nothing could be further from the truth. While ‘standardized’ extracts may offer benefit of easy consistency of dosage (and cheaper more efficient production lines), they have grave disadvantages, including an increase in side effects, as the medicines produced in this manner lose the natural protective properties of the herbs. In some cases, these side effects have proved fatal – as was seen in the liver toxicity associated with standardized extracts of kava kava, a herb previously safely used for generations without any known side effects.

Most naturopaths recommend what is called the Full Spectrum Method of extraction – which retains the benefits of ALL the active ingredients within the herb as opposed to isolating only one – thereby providing a more complete treatment as well as superior protection against side effects.

Whatever your choice, always choose wisely. Research what is best for you. If you have a chronic or life-threatening condition, don’t make changes without first discussing them with your doctor, in order that your condition may be monitored. Well-informed and supportive practitioners will support patients who want to take responsibility for their own health.

12 ALKALINE RECIPES

Healthy Alkaline Food Recipes for You & Your Family!

Alkaline Recipe #1: Cold Cauliflower-Coconut SoupBesides being an alkaline food, cauliflowers also have several other health benefits including: improving heart health, reducing the risk of strokes and strengthen the immune system. Cauliflower can also help to prevent colon cancer and maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Fresh coconut milk is full of Lauric Acids which makes it anti-carcinogenic, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial as well as anti-viral. Coconut milk can help to fight off all sorts of viruses and help to lower cholesterol as well as to prevent cancer.

INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS1 pound fresh cauliflower1 ¼ cup unsweetened coconut milk1 cup water2 tbsp. fresh lime juice

cup⅓ cold-pressed olive oil½ cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped1 pinch sea salt and cayenne pepper1 handful unsweetened coconut chips

DIRECTIONS1. Steam cauliflower for around 10 minutes.

2. Then, put the cauliflower together with coconut milk and water in a food processor and process until very smooth. Add fresh lime juice, salt and pepper, most of the chopped coriander and the oil and mix for another few seconds.

3. Pour in soup bowls and garnish with coriander and coconut chips. Enjoy! ;-)

Alkaline Recipe #2: Pumpkin Tomato SoupPumpkins are not only alkaline, but also very low in calories which make them an ideal vegetablefor anybody who watches his/her weight. Moreover, pumpkins are rich in potassium, magnesium,zinc, fiber, iron as well as beta-carotene (antioxidant), which are really good at neutralizing free radicals.

INGREDIENTS FOR 8 SERVINGS1 quart water1 pound fresh tomatoes, peeled and diced1 medium-sized sweet pumpkin5 yellow onions1 tbsp. cold pressed extra virgin olive oil1 tsp. sea salt or organic salt1 pinch cayenne pepper1 handful fresh parsley1tsp. your favorite herbs (optional)

DIRECTIONS1. Cut onions in small pieces and sauté with some

oil in a big pot.

2. Cut the pumpkin in half, then cut off the stem and scoop out the seeds. Finally scoop out the flesh and put it in the pot. Add also the tomatoes and the water and cook for around 20 minutes.

3. Then pour the soup into a food processor and mix well for a few seconds. Season with salt, pepper and your favorite herbs.

4. Pour into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your alkalizing soup!

Alkaline Recipe #3: Carrot Soup with MilletMost grains are acidic, except millet and buckwheat. Apart from being alkaline forming, milletalso contains the highest calcium content of all grains, has less phytates than other grains, isgluten-free and packed with vitamins and minerals, e.g. Vitamin B3 which can help lower cholesterol.

INGREDIENTS FOR 2 SERVINGS2 lb. carrots, cut in thin slices2 oz ground millet4 cups yeast-free veggie broth2 yellow onions, chopped1 tbsp. cold pressed extra virgin olive oil1 pinch sea salt or organic salt1 pinch cayenne pepper1 handful fresh parsley and chives, chopped1-2 cloves

DIRECTIONS1. Heat some oil in a pot, add the onions and stir-

fry for a couple of minutes. Then add the carrots and the millet and stir-fry for another 10 minutes on low heat.

2. Next, add the veggie broth, some clove (be careful with the clove, don’t add too much), and some salt and pepper. Cook until the carrots are tender (around 20-30 minutes).

3. Then puree with a hand-held blender, season once more with salt and pepper, pour the soup into a bowl and garnish with chives and parsley. Enjoy this simple but very delicious recipe!

Alkaline Recipe #4: Wild Rice with Alkalizing GreensWild rice is slightly acidic - yet, eating moderately and in combination with a lot of greensstill fits well in an Alkaline Diet Program.

Please always use fresh greens and veggies and never use canned or processed food.

INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS1 cup wild rice1 cup pak choi1 cup broccoli1 cup young beans2 carrots1 cup bean sprouts½ cup vegetable broth (yeast-free)1 chili1 fresh lime, JuiceSome cilantroSome basil and sea salt to taste

DIRECTIONS1. Finely chop all the vegetables (pak choi,

broccoli, beans, carrots and bean sprouts) and steam fry them in some vegetable broth in a pan until they are slightly cooked but still crunchy.

2. Meanwhile, mortar the cilantro and the finely chopped chili. Then, add lime juice until you have a nice dressing.

3. Place the rice on a plate, add the greens and sprinkle the dressing on top. It's that easy! Serve warm and enjoy!

Alkaline Recipe #5: Quinoa Pasta with ArtichokesEating alkaline doesn't mean you have to give up pasta. You can eat it moderately if considering thefollowing: always choose quinoa or spelt pasta, leave out all the meat and tuna, and add loads offresh vegetables.

INGREDIENTS FOR 2 SERVINGS7 oz quinoa or spelt pasta8 oz fresh or frozen artichoke hearts5 oz. fresh tomatoes, cut into cubes1 medium-sized onion, chopped1 clove garlic, crushed1 oz. pine nuts1 tsp. yeast-free vegetable stock1 tbsp. fresh basil, chopped½ tsp. organic sea salt1 pinch cayenne pepper2 tbsp. cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS1. Prepare fresh artichoke and cook until tender.

Alternatively, use frozen artichoke hearts.

2. Cook pasta following packet directions.

3. Heat 2 tbsp. of olive oil in pan and stir-fry pine nuts, onions and garlic for a couple of minutes. Add tomatoes and the (cooked!) artichoke hearts and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

4. Dissolve yeast-free vegetable stock in ½ cup of water (check directions), add to pan. Simmer on low heat for 2 more minutes, stir occasionally.

5. Finally, add the basil and season with cayenne pepper and salt. Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Alkaline Recipe #6: RatatouilleRatatouille is a traditional French Provencal stewed vegetable dish, with tomatoes, zucchini, bellpepper and eggplant being the key ingredients. Ratatouille is usually served as a side dish, but alsomay be served as a meal on its own. Because of its many fresh vegetables, Ratatouille makes a perfectdish for an Alkaline Diet.

INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS5 tomatoes, diced1 large zucchini, sliced1 large eggplant, sliced1 green bell pepper, diced1 big onion, chopped2 cloves garlic, crushed2 tsp. herbs de Provence3 tbsp. cold pressed extra virgin olive oil1 pinch sea salt or organic salt1 pinch pepper1 cup water

DIRECTIONS1. Heat some olive oil in a pot (or wok) and sauté

onions and garlic for a couple of minutes.

2. Then add the eggplant and zucchini slices as well as the pepper bell and stir-fry for around 8 minutes.

3. Then add the water, tomatoes and herbs, stir well and let cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender but not too soft.

4. Taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Alkaline Recipe #7: Stir-Fried Greens with AlmondsAlmonds, which are the most alkaline of all nuts, are low in saturated fat and contain importantnutrients such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, fiber, and many more.

Please always use fresh greens and veggies and never use canned or processed food.

INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS4 flowers broccoli5oz. young beans1 yellow onion1 cup cauliflower, carrots or other veggies1 clove garlic, finely chopped4 tbsp. cold pressed extra virgin olive oil3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice½ tsp. cumin and oregano1 pinch sea salt and pepper to tasteSome soaked almonds for garnishing, sliced

DIRECTIONS1. Put beans, broccoli and other vegetables in pan

and fry until broccoli and beans reach green dark color (do not cook too soft, the vegetables should still be crunchy).

2. Add chopped onion and garlic, mix and stir fry for a couple of minutes.

3. For the dressing: put oil, lemon juice, cumin and oregano in a small bowl and mix well. Pour over vegetables, stir lightly, taste with salt and pepper, garnish with the sliced almonds, serve warm and enjoy!

Alkaline Recipe #8: Vegetable LasagnaDid you know that avocados have several health benefits? Scientists have proved that a certaintoxin present in avocados is able to kill cancer cells - it is used both in prevention and treatmentof prostate and breast cancers. Furthermore, potassium in avocado can regulate pressure of blood.

INGREDIENTS FOR 1 LASAGNA2 soft avocados1 clove garlic1-2 fresh lemons, juice1 red bell pepper½ small radish1 parsley root1 small leek1 corn salad (lamb's lettuce)3 big tomatoes1 Arugula (Garden Rocket)Some fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS1. Put avocados, garlic and lemon juice in a

blender and mix until smooth. Add some water if necessary.

2. Finely grate the radish and the parsley root, cut the leek into fine rings and the bell pepper in thin strips. Then mix well with the avocado cream.

3. Now, for the first layer of the lasagna, put the corn salad in a casserole. Then pour over the avocado mix and spread well. For the next layer, add the tomato slices. Finally, the parsley and arugula form the top layer of your lasagna. Enjoy this wonderful alkaline dish!

Alkaline Recipe #9: Pumpkin FriesThese alkaline pumpkin fries are a great snack, you can also enjoy them with an alkalizing dip.Pumpkins are not only alkaline, but also very low in calories which make them an ideal vegetable foranybody who watches its weight. Moreover, pumpkins are rich in potassium, magnesium, zinc, fiber,iron as well as beta-carotene (antioxidant), which are really good at neutralizing free radicals.

INGREDIENTS FOR 1 TRAY1 pumpkin¼ cup cold pressed extra virgin olive oil1 tsp. sea salt or organic salt ½ tsp. cayenne pepper 1 pinch curry powder 1 pinch cumin powder

DIRECTIONS1. Preheat oven to 350° F.

2. Cut pumpkin in halves, scoop out the strings and seeds, wash each section and use a sharp knife to peel the large pieces. Then cut the pulp in stripes, similar to French Fries.

3. Spread the pumpkin stripes onto the tray, spray with olive oil (or pour the oil carefully if you don't have an oil sprayer) and season with salt, pepper, curry powder and cumin powder.

4. Bake for around 30-40 minutes, toss occasionally. Really delicious!

Alkaline Recipe #10: Green Beans with CoconutGreen Beans, or String Beans, are very low in calorie (only 40 calories in 4oz. / 1 cup), but area great source of Vitamin K, C and A as well as Manganese and Potassium. Moreover they containa high amount of fiber which helps in lowering high blood pressure.

Fresh coconut milk is full of Lauric Acids which makes it anti-carcinogenic, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial as well as anti-viral. Coconut milk can help to fight off all sorts of viruses and help to lower cholesterol as well as to prevent cancer.

INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS (SIDE DISH)1 pound green beans, cut in 1 inch pieces1 tbsp. fresh coconut milk1 tbsp. dried flaked coconut1-2 red chilies, chopped2 cloves garlic, chopped½ tsp. ground cumin½ tsp. fresh ginger, chopped1 tsp. your favorite fresh herbs3 tbsp. cold pressed extra virgin olive oil1 pinch sea salt and cayenne pepper

DIRECTIONS1. Heat oil in wok and add beans, garlic, cumin,

ginger as well as the chilies. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes

2. Add the coconut milk and flakes and stir-fry for another couple of minutes (or until milk is vaporized).

3. Season with herbs, salt and pepper. Enjoy!!

Alkaline Recipe #11: Mashed Sweet PotatoesSweet potatoes are not only alkaline and low in calorie, but also rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C,acting as a natural antioxidant. Moreover, sweet potatoes can help to reduce blood pressure andstabilize blood sugar levels (good for diabetics).

INGREDIENTS FOR 3-4 SERVINGS (SIDE DISH)6 large sweet potatoes 1½-2 cups fresh coconut milk1 tbsp. cold pressed extra virgin olive oil1 tbsp. sea salt1 pinch pepper½ tbsp curry powder

DIRECTIONS1. Wash and chop the sweet potatoes and boil

them for around 20 minutes.

2. Then mash the sweet potatoes to desired consistency and add the remaining ingredients. Voilà!!

3. Enjoy this alkaline mashed potato recipe! It's really yummy ;-)

Alkaline Recipe #12: Stuffed Tomatoes

INGREDIENTS FOR 2 TOMATOES2 big tomatoes4 oz. fresh spinach2 oz. eggplants½ small-sized zucchini½ small onion1 clove garlic1 tbsp. cold pressed extra virgin olive oil1 pinch sea salt or organic salt1 pinch pepper

DIRECTIONS1. Dice eggplant and zucchini and chop spinach,

onion and garlic.

2. Put all into a bowl, add olive oil, season with salt and pepper and mix well.

3. Then, cut off the stem ends of the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp. Take care to leave at least 0.25” of tomato to the skin for stability. Add the pulp to the veggie mix and mix again.

4. Finally stuff the tomatoes with the veggie mix, place them into a pan, add 1/3 cup of water and cover with lid.

5. Put into the pre-heated oven at 325°F for around 20 minutes. That's it – enjoy!

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