An Integrative Ayurvedic Perspective on Varicose Veins: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology and Management

Varicose veins, a manifestation of chronic venous insufficiency, is a common vascular disorder affecting the lower limbs, characterized by dilated, tortuous veins and venous hypertension.1 Modern medicine attributes this condition to valvular incompetence.2 Ayurveda offers a holistic understanding, correlating it with Siragranthi caused by Rakta Dushti, Vata Dushti, and impaired Raktavaha Srotas.3 Traditional Ayurvedic management strategies include Shodhana (purificatory therapies), Shamana (palliative measures), and Rasayana (rejuvenation)3-5 to provide symptomatic relief and prevent complications. This review explores Ayurvedic etiology, pathology, clinical features, and treatment of varicose veins, supported by classical references and contemporary research.3-6