What are Horse Chestnut Cream and Balm Good for?

Horse chestnut cream and balm are natural care products used for skin health and musculoskeletal disorders. Extracts obtained from the seeds of the horse chestnut plant have been used in alternative medicine and natural treatment methods for many years. The aescin substance in its content has anti-inflammatory and vascular strengthening properties, making these products effective in the treatment of various disorders.

So, what is horse chestnut cream good for? Horse chestnut cream and balm help alleviate problems such as varicose veins, joint pain, muscle cramps, and rheumatism. It reduces swelling and fatigue in the legs by accelerating circulation, and helps eliminate problems such as cracks and irritation by nourishing the skin. In this content, you will discover the benefits of horse chestnut cream and balm, scientific studies about it, and information about its use.

Benefits of Horse Chestnut Cream

What are the benefits of horse chestnut cream? Horse chestnut cream is particularly effective on skin health. The cream obtained from horse chestnut can be good for dry skin, as well as removing spots on the skin and providing an even skin tone. The benefits of horse chestnut cream for the skin, which has positive effects on the skin as well as muscle, bone and joint structure, can be listed as follows:

• It reduces the effects of inflammatory diseases.
• It reduces varicose veins and circulatory disorders.
• It prevents the formation of wrinkles.
• Reduces the appearance of cellulite.
• It is good for dark circles under the eyes.
• It can relieve bleeding hemorrhoids.
• It is good for joint pain and rheumatism.
• It is good for skin blemishes.
• It reduces stress and fatigue.
• It reduces hair loss.
• It is good for acne scars.

Some bodies may be sensitive to horse chestnut or its ingredients.

Consult a healthcare professional before use.

Reduces the Effects of Inflammatory Diseases

Horse chestnut cream, – is effective in relieving inflammatory conditions. Aescin is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be used in the treatment of muscle and joint pain.

In several studies, the aescin ingredient in this cream has been shown to reduce inflammatory responses, relieving pain and swelling. Studies have shown that aescin controls edema by reducing vascular permeability and may reduce inflammation in muscles through anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Study: Sirtori, C.R. (2001). Aescin: pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and therapeutic profile. Pharmacological

Results: Aescin, the main active ingredient of the horse chestnut tree, Aesculus hippocastanum (Hippocastanaceae), has shown convincing evidence of clinically significant activities in chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), hemorrhoids, anti-inflammatory and postoperative edema.

Source: Research, 44(3), 183-193.

Reduces Varicose Veins and Circulatory Disorders

Another of the most well-known effects of horse chestnut cream is that it increases blood circulation. It is a result of this effect that it is good for circulatory disorders such as varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency .

The aescin in the cream can strengthen the veins and allow blood to circulate more effectively. In clinical studies, it can be seen that products containing aescin increase circulation, especially in the lower extremities, and provide significant benefits in the treatment of varicose veins.

Study: Pittler, M.H., & Ernst, E. (2012). Horse chestnut seed extract for chronic venous insufficiency.

Findings: This study scientifically focuses on the benefits of horse chestnut seed extract/oil in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency.

Source: Cochrane database of systematic reviews.

Prevents Wrinkle Formation

Horse chestnut cream has a strong antioxidant effect on the skin and can help slow down the aging process of the skin. This antioxidant activity can prevent the formation of wrinkles. Studies on horse chestnut extracts have shown that this substance increases skin elasticity and reduces signs of premature aging.

Study: Joshi, PS, & Singh, SP Comprehensive review of the nutritional composition and health benefits of horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) seeds and nuts: A review.

Findings: This study addresses the nutritional composition and health benefits of horse chestnut seeds. It highlights their various properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, immunomodulatory, spasmolytic, anticarcinogenic and neurodepressive effects.

Source: International Journal of Advanced Biochemistry

Reduces the Appearance of Cellulite

Cellulite is a condition caused by the irregular accumulation of fatty tissue under the skin, and horse chestnut cream can be helpful in reducing this appearance. Aescin can reduce fluid accumulation in the tissues by increasing blood circulation, which can alleviate the appearance of cellulite.

Study: Hexsel, D., & do Prado, DZ (2010). Topical management of cellulite. In Cellulite (pp. 73-79).

Findings: This study is on topical management of cellulite and touches upon the benefit of horse chestnut.

Source: CRC Press.

Good for Under-Eye Dark Circles

Horse chestnut cream can be effective in removing dark circles and bruises under the eyes. Aescin strengthens the capillaries and allows blood to circulate more effectively, which can prevent the veins under the eyes from becoming visible. This effect can help lighten dark circles under the eyes.

Studies have shown that aescin regulates vascular permeability, reducing problems such as under-eye puffiness and bruising. This ingredient, which provides positive results in eliminating under-eye sensitivity and soothing the skin, is also used in various cosmetic products.

Study: Sirtori, C.R. (2001). Aescin: pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and therapeutic profile. Pharmacological

Findings: Aescin, the main active ingredient of the horse chestnut tree, Aesculus hippocastanum (Hippocastanaceae), offers benefits to skin health by demonstrating dermatologically significant activities.

Source: Research, 44(3), 183-193.

May Alleviate Hemorrhoid Bleeding

Horse chestnut cream may also be beneficial in the treatment of conditions that cause blood vessel dilation and bleeding, such as hemorrhoids. The cream’s vascular strengthening effect can alleviate hemorrhoidal bleeding by regulating blood flow.

Aescin can help reduce inflammation in hemorrhoids and stop bleeding by helping to constrict blood vessels . Many studies have proven that horse chestnut extract is effective in treating hemorrhoids and relieves pain and bleeding.

Study: Ezberci, F., & Ünal, E. (2018). Aesculus Hippocastanum (Aescin, Horse Chestnut) in the Management of Hemorrhoidal Disease.

Findings: The Hippocastanaceae family is widely used in the medical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. Aescin, found in horse chestnut seed extract, mediates its sensitizing activity on ion channels in the vascular wall, especially to calcium.

Source: Turkish Journal of Colorectal Disease.

Good for Joint Pain and Rheumatism

Horse chestnut cream is also frequently preferred in the treatment of joint pain and rheumatic problems . Especially in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatic pain and arthritis, aescin can relieve pain or swelling with its anti-inflammatory effect.

In many clinical studies, horse chestnut cream benefits include reducing joint and muscle inflammation. When applied topically, this cream can quickly penetrate into painful areas and provide relief.

Study: Suter, A., Bommer, S., & Rechner, J. (2006). Treatment of patients with venous insufficiency with fresh plant horse chestnut seed extract: a review of 5 clinical studies.

Findings: Studies on patients with horse chestnut seed extract show that objective measurement of reduction in lower leg edema and subjective reduction in leg pain, heaviness and itching are provided.

Source: Advances in therapy.

Good for Skin Blemishes

Horse chestnut cream may be beneficial in reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation on the skin. Aescin may help lighten the appearance of spots by encouraging skin cell renewal, making the skin appear brighter and smoother.

Study: Nema, NK, Chaudhary, SK, Kar, A., Bahadur, S., Harwansh, RK, Haldar, PK, … & Mukherjee, PK (2022). Bioactive leads for skin aging—Current scenario and future perspectives. In Evidence-Based Validation of Herbal Medicine (pp. 185-222).

Findings: This study highlights natural bioactive molecules for the management of skin aging, including the effect of an active ingredient, Aescin.

Source: Elsevier.

Reduces Stress and Fatigue

Horse chestnut cream can have a relaxing effect on people who experience fatigue and muscle tension . The aescin in its content can help reduce stress thanks to its muscle relaxant and circulation-enhancing properties. Topical application of the cream can help dissolve lactic acid accumulated in the muscles more quickly, alleviating the feeling of fatigue.

Study: Micucci, M. (2012). From Folke Medicine to Medicine Chemistry: Study, Using in Vitro and Cellular Assays, of Receptors Mechanism Involved in the Activities of Natural Compounds.

Results: In vascular smooth muscle, natural chestnut extract significantly alters contraction, stress and fatigue induced by potassium (80 mM) or norepinephrine (1μM).

Source: Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna.

Reduces Hair Loss

Horse chestnut cream can also be effective against hair loss problems. The circulation-enhancing effect of aescin allows more oxygen and nutrients to be carried to the hair follicles, which can slow down hair loss. Aescin has been found to be especially beneficial for hair loss problems such as androgenetic alopecia .

Study: Sadgrove, N., Batra, S., Barreto, D., & Rapaport, J. (2023). An updated etiology of hair loss and the new cosmeceutical paradigm in therapy: Clearing ‘the big eight strikes’.

Findings: Aescin, derived from the chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum (horse chestnut tree), facilitates normal tissue formation, particularly in the context of angiogenesis.

Source: Cosmetics.

Good for Acne Scars

Horse chestnut cream is effective in healing spots on the skin after acne. Aescin can reduce redness and spots on the skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It lightens hyperpigmentation after acne and can contribute to balancing the skin tone.

Study: Nema, NK, Chaudhary, SK, Kar, A., Bahadur, S., Harwansh, RK, Haldar, PK, … & Mukherjee, PK (2022). Bioactive leads for skin aging—Current scenario and future perspectives. In Evidence-Based Validation of Herbal Medicine (pp. 185-222).

Findings: This study highlights natural bioactive molecules for the management of skin aging, including the effect of an active ingredient, Aescin.

Source: Elsevier.

What are the Benefits of Horse Chestnut Balsam?

Horse chestnut cream and horse chestnut balm are different products; however, they can be used for similar purposes due to their active ingredients. Both are products made with extracts obtained from the horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) plant and are often used to increase circulation on the skin, relieve pain and improve problems such as varicose veins and muscle pain.

You can find answers to your questions about what horse chestnut balsam is used for and what it is good for in the following articles:

• It is effective in relieving pain.
• It can accelerate blood flow.
• Good for muscle tension; can reduce stress.
• It can give flexibility to muscles.
• It can relieve fluid accumulation (edema).
• It can relieve fatigue in legs and feet.
• It can relieve pain, especially in the neck area.
• It can give the body a brighter and firmer appearance.
• Cleanses and purifies the skin.

What are the Benefits of Horse Chestnut Cream and Balm?

Horse chestnut cream is used to relieve problems such as pain, swelling and circulatory disorders in various parts of the body. The aescin substance in the cream provides anti-inflammatory and vascular strengthening effects, providing significant benefits on skin and circulatory health.

So, how to use horse chestnut cream and what is the use of horse chestnut balm?

• Circulatory Problems and Varicose Veins: It can be applied to the varicose vein area of ​​the legs by applying a thin layer and massaging twice a day, in the morning and evening.
• Muscle and Joint Pain: A sufficient amount of cream can be applied to the painful or inflamed area and absorbed by gentle massaging. The frequency of daily use can be increased depending on the intensity of the pain.
• Skin Problems and Cellulite: For skin spots and cellulite, it can be applied to the problematic area with circular movements. Regular use can accelerate the regeneration of skin tissue.
• Hemorrhoid Treatment: It can be applied as a thin layer around the anus to relieve swelling and pain caused by hemorrhoids. Before application, make sure the area is clean.

How to Make Horse Chestnut Cream and Balm?

Horse chestnut cream and balm is a product that can be easily prepared at home with natural ingredients. The cream and balm are made by combining extracts from horse chestnut seeds with carrier oils and other natural ingredients suitable for skin care.

Making your own horse chestnut cream at home allows you to have a skin-friendly product without using chemical ingredients. Below, you can find a simple horse chestnut cream recipe.

Materials:

• Horse chestnut powder or extract (about 2 tablespoons)
• Carrier oil (e.g. olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil – 100 ml)
• Beeswax (about 20 grams)
• Vitamin E oil (optional, a few drops)
• Essential oils (like lavender or rosemary oil, for fragrance and extra benefits)

How to make:

• Preparation of Horse Chestnut Extract: If you are not using ready-made horse chestnut extract, you can dry horse chestnut seeds and turn them into powder. Mix approximately 2 tablespoons of powder with a carrier oil (such as olive oil). You should leave this mixture in a sunny place for 2-3 weeks and shake it occasionally. At the end of the waiting period, you can separate the oil by straining the mixture through a fine cheesecloth.
• Preparation of Cream Base: You can melt the beeswax on low heat using a double boiler method (bain-marie method). When the beeswax is completely melted, you can add the horse chestnut extract you have prepared and stir the mixture constantly.
• Adding Extra Ingredients: You can add a few drops of vitamin E oil, which is beneficial for skin health, and optional essential oils to the mixture. Lavender oil can relieve muscle and joint pain with its relaxing effect, while rosemary oil has circulation-enhancing properties.
• Cooling the Cream: After all the ingredients are mixed well, you can remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool. When the mixture starts to solidify, you can fill the cream containers with a spatula.
• Storage and Use: You should store horse chestnut cream in a cool and dry place. When it reaches a consistency that you can easily apply to your skin, you can massage it into painful or problematic areas. You can safely use this homemade cream for about 3 months.

Consult your healthcare professional before application.

Horse Chestnut Cream Harms and Side Effects

The harms of horse chestnut cream; may occur after unconscious and incorrect use, and some bodies may be sensitive to the active ingredients in horse chestnut cream. Here are the possible side effects of horse chestnut balm or cream:

• Skin Irritation: Reactions such as redness, itching and rash may occur on sensitive skin.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic symptoms may occur, especially in people who are allergic to horse chestnut.
• Liver Toxicity: Some compounds found in horse chestnut may damage the liver with long-term use (especially oral use).
• Eye Contact Risk: May irritate in case of eye contact.
• Pregnancy and Lactation Sensitivity: Safety for pregnant or lactating women has not been adequately studied; use is not recommended in these groups.
• Use on Open Wounds: The risk of infection may increase when used on open wounds or damaged skin.

Some bodies may be sensitive to horse chestnut or the active ingredients it contains.

Perform an allergy test before use and consult a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions About Horse Chestnut Cream

What kind of pains is Horse Chestnut Cream good for?

Horse chestnut cream is good for pain originating from the musculoskeletal system. It provides effective relief for inflammatory joint disorders such as muscle pain, joint pain, rheumatism, arthritis . Therefore, it can be used with doctor’s approval for many different types of pain such as varicose vein pain, sports injuries and back and neck pain .

Where is Horse Chestnut Cream Used?

Horse chestnut cream is widely used for both skin health and circulatory system problems. It can be especially effective in the treatment of varicose veins, eliminating skin blemishes and acne scars, and reducing the appearance of cellulite .

How to Use Horse Chestnut Cream for Cough?

Although horse chestnut cream is not a direct treatment for cough, massaging it into the chest area can help relieve symptoms of coughs and bronchitis by increasing circulation. It is recommended to apply a thin layer to the chest to relieve coughs; however, it should be noted that this use is not a substitute for medical treatment.

Is Horse Chestnut Cream Good for Sprains?

Yes, horse chestnut cream can be effective in soft tissue injuries such as sprains. The aescin substance in it has anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling properties, which can reduce edema in sprains and speed up the healing process.

When applied to the sprained area, it relieves pain and increases blood circulation, contributing to tissue repair. It is a natural treatment method often preferred in sports injuries and traumas.

What is Horse Chestnut Cream Good For?

Horse chestnut cream is especially good for many problems related to blood circulation and skin health. It can be used under the supervision of a doctor in the treatment of conditions such as varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, joint pain, muscle pain, rheumatism .

Is Horse Chestnut Cream Good for Neck Pain?

Yes, horse chestnut cream can be good for neck pain. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect on muscle and joint pain, it can relieve muscle tension and inflammation in the neck area. For problems such as neck stiffness, muscle pain or rheumatism in the neck area, the cream can be applied with a doctor’s approval by massaging to provide relief.

Why Does Horse Chestnut Cream Burn?

The reason for the burning sensation of horse chestnut cream can be explained in 2 different ways. First of all, horse chestnut cream increases blood circulation in the veins under the skin tissue, which can give the body a feeling of warmth. On the other hand, some sensitive skins may have an allergic reaction to the active ingredient in horse chestnut cream and therefore a burning sensation may occur.

For the most accurate information and healthy results, get support from a specialist doctor. The information in our content is not a prescription. We wish you healthy days…