Horse chestnut extract - what it is
Horse chestnut extract is a natural extract derived from the seeds, bark or flowers of the horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum). It is a valued ingredient in cosmetics, pharmacy and natural medicine for its properties that promote circulation, strengthen blood vessels and relieve swelling. Thanks to its content of escin, the main active ingredient, horse chestnut extract exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-edema and capillary sealing properties, making it a popular remedy for treating varicose veins, edema and other circulatory ailments.
The use of horse-chestnut extract has a long history in folk medicine, but modern research confirms its effectiveness and wide use. It is present in many preparations - from ointments and gels to dietary supplements and skin care cosmetics. It is particularly popular in products for leg care and prevention of chronic venous insufficiency. In this article, we will take a closer look at the properties of horse chestnut extract, its uses and potential contraindications to better understand how this natural ingredient can support health and beauty.
Horse chestnut extract - properties
Horse chestnut extract is rich in bioactive compounds, the most important of which is escin, a mixture of saponins with strong anti-inflammatory and anti-edema effects. Aescin seals and strengthens blood vessels, reducing their permeability, which prevents swelling and promotes proper blood circulation. It also has an anticoagulant effect, improving microcirculation and reducing blood stasis in the veins, making horse chestnut extract an effective ingredient in the treatment of varicose veins, spider veins and chronic venous insufficiency.
In addition to Aescin, horse chestnut extract also contains flavonoids, coumarins and tannins, which exhibit strong antioxidant properties. As a result, it protects cells from oxidative stress and promotes skin regeneration, making it a valuable ingredient in cosmetics for vascular and redness-prone skin. In addition, it exhibits antibacterial and soothing properties, which makes it used in products for problematic skin, including those prone to inflammation and irritation.
The anti-inflammatory and vascular strengthening effects also make chestnut extract used in painkillers and muscle relaxants. It can be used in the treatment of joint pain, muscle spasms or feelings of heaviness in the legs. Its circulation-enhancing properties also make it used in preparations to help fight cellulite, as it reduces swelling and improves lymphatic drainage, which promotes smoother skin. Thanks to its broad spectrum of action, horse chestnut extract is a valuable ingredient in both medicine and cosmetology.
Horse chestnut extract - effects
Horse chestnut extract works primarily on the circulatory system, supporting the condition of blood vessels and improving blood flow. Thanks to its content of escin and flavonoids, it strengthens the walls of capillaries, reducing their tendency to burst and excessive permeability. This action makes it an effective agent in the prevention and treatment of varicose veins, edema and feelings of heavy legs. In addition, it has an anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant effect, which reduces the risk of venous stasis and thrombosis, while reducing pain and swelling in the lower extremities. This is why it is often used in topical ointments and gels, as well as in supplements to support the circulatory system.
In addition to its effect on circulation, horse chestnut extract also shows a protective and regenerative effect on the skin. Its antioxidant properties help fight free radicals, which delays the aging process and improves skin elasticity. Thanks to its soothing and astringent effects, it is often used in cosmetics for vascular skin and in preparations for cellulite. By improving microcirculation and promoting lymphatic drainage, it helps reduce swelling and smooth the skin, making it a popular ingredient in body-modeling lotions and creams. Its versatile action makes it readily used in both natural medicine and cosmetology.
Horse chestnut extract - in Encann hemp creams
Horse chestnut extract (Aesculus hippocastanum) is a valued ingredient in cosmetics and natural medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-edema and blood vessel strengthening properties. The Encann brand uses this extract in its hemp creams, such as REST relaxing cream with CBD, KRIO cooling cream with CBD and TERMO warming cream with CBD to promote skin regeneration and provide relief from cardiovascular ailments.
In REST relaxing cream with CBD, horse chestnut extract works together with hemp oil, CBD and other plant extracts, such as calendula, chamomile or mallow. This combination of ingredients is designed to intensively moisturize, soothe irritation and regenerate the skin. As a result, the cream is recommended for people with dry, flaky skin and dermatological problems, bringing relief and improving the overall condition of the skin.
KRIO cooling cream with CBD was created for people in need of quick relief after physical exertion or daily hardships. Horse chestnut extract, combined with menthol, camphor and peppermint extract, provides a cooling effect, relieving swelling and the feeling of heavy legs. In addition, the presence of CBD and other plant extracts promotes skin regeneration, bringing a feeling of refreshment and comfort.
TERMO warming cream with CBD combines horse chestnut extract with vanillic acid butyl ether, rosemary extract and other active ingredients to provide a warming and regenerating effect. This composition of ingredients helps relieve muscle pain, improves circulation and promotes skin regeneration. The cream is ideal for those seeking relaxation and relief after intense physical exertion or for musculoskeletal ailments.
Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)
