- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe (Balkans)
- Traditions
- Western herbal medicine
Europe · Herb · № 301
Aesculus hippocastanum
Herb · Europe
Horse chestnut
Aesculus hippocastanum
Traditionally attributed effects: anti-inflammatory, astringent.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Bark, seeds; large amounts of seed coat can be poisonous.
Use in traditions
The horse chestnut comes from the Balkans and was introduced in Vienna in the 16th century. Turks are said to have given the seeds to coughing horses. Standardised seed extract with aescin has been studied in chronic venous insufficiency and appears to reduce swelling and pain in the legs.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Anti-inflammatory, astringent.
Preparation and amount
Bark, seeds; large amounts of seed coat can be poisonous.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Astringent, tonic; improves the health of the veins (varicose veins, swelling), relieves haemorrhoids.
Preparation and amount
Lotion: 1 tsp externally twice a day; tincture 3–10 drops in 30 ml water 3 times a day, 2 weeks; oil or suppository for haemorrhoids; internally only short-term, not with blood thinners.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tincture