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HEART & CIRCULATION

Horse Chestnut (Aescin)

Leg veins · circulation · swelling

STRONG EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 5 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
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Horse Chestnut: Leg veins · circulation · swelling. A seed extract standardized to aescin, well studied for heavy, achy legs and the symptoms of poor vein circulation. Standard dose 300 mg (standardized aescin), taken in the morning, about $13/month. Evidence rating: strong evidence.

Where to buy

NOWFOODSHorse Chestnut90 VEG CAPSDIETARY SUPP.
RECOMMENDED
NOW Foods, Horse Chestnut
300 mg (standardized aescin) · Morning · ~$13/month

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NOWFOODSHorse Chestnut90 VEG CAPSDIETARY SUPP.BESTSELLER
Horse Chestnut
NOW Foods
90 veg caps · $13 · ★ 4.6
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NATURE'SWAYHorse Chestnut90 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.BEST VALUE
Horse Chestnut
Nature's Way
90 capsules · $14 · ★ 4.6
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SOLARAYHorse Chestnut60 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.PREMIUM
Horse Chestnut
Solaray
60 capsules · $15 · ★ 4.5
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SWANSONHorse Chestnut120 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.PREMIUM
Horse Chestnut
Swanson
120 capsules · $11 · ★ 4.5
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What is Horse Chestnut?

Horse chestnut seed extract is one of the better-evidenced herbal options for chronic venous insufficiency, the poor vein circulation that causes heavy, swollen, achy legs and varicose veins. Its active compound, aescin, helps tighten vein walls and reduce fluid leakage into tissues. A respected body of clinical trials shows standardized extract can reduce leg swelling, heaviness, and discomfort about as well as compression stockings for milder cases. Only properly processed extract should be used, since the raw seed contains a toxic compound (esculin) that is removed in quality products. It has mild blood-thinning activity. Standardize to 16 to 20 percent aescin, around 300 mg twice daily.

WHY IT MATTERS

A seed extract standardized to aescin, well studied for heavy, achy legs and the symptoms of poor vein circulation.

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Common questions

What is Horse Chestnut?
Horse chestnut seed extract is one of the better-evidenced herbal options for chronic venous insufficiency, the poor vein circulation that causes heavy, swollen, achy legs and varicose veins. Its active compound, aescin, helps tighten vein walls and reduce fluid leakage into tissues. A respected body of clinical trials shows standardized extract can reduce leg swelling, heaviness, and discomfort about as well as compression stockings for milder cases. Only properly processed extract should be used, since the raw seed contains a toxic compound (esculin) that is removed in quality products. It has mild blood-thinning activity. Standardize to 16 to 20 percent aescin, around 300 mg twice daily.
What is Horse Chestnut used for?
Leg veins · circulation · swelling. A seed extract standardized to aescin, well studied for heavy, achy legs and the symptoms of poor vein circulation.
What is the standard dose of Horse Chestnut?
300 mg (standardized aescin), typically taken in the morning. Approximate cost is $13 per month.
Who should avoid Horse Chestnut?
Use extra caution, and speak to a clinician first, if you are on blood thinners.
How strong is the evidence for Horse Chestnut?
Strong evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

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