Phlebitis is inflammation of veins, while thrombosis is a blood clot. These conditions can be deep or superficial. Phlebitis is the more common and is often caused by pregnancy, standing for long periods of time, a lack of exercise, or smoking. Deep thrombosis is more serious because the veins affected are deep within the muscle. With thrombosis, blood clots can break off and travel around the circulatory system. Circulation and oxygen are impeded by the ensuing blockage, and surrounding organs served by blood vessels may be damaged, depending on where the blockage is. Thrombosis can be a very serious and potentially fatal problem. Occurrence of clots or ruptures in the brain is often referred to as stroke (see above), while in the chest it is known as pulmonary thrombosis (asthma can be an additional factor here). Deep vein thrombosis often comes with no symptoms and can surprise all concerned; diagnosis can be difficult.
The aim is to clear the vessels, reduce the stickiness of blood platelets that are clumping together, and strengthen the vascular walls through the use of calcium and rutin (the latter a component of buckwheat leaves).
Refer to dietary and herbal advice for heart disease and the circulatory system, because it is crucial that you ensure that you have good circulation. Seek professional advice as well.
Exercise and generally engage in sensible activities. For the bedridden, this can be a serious problem, so massage will be vital.
If you smoke—Stop.
If the inflammation or phlebitis itself is visible, use an external poultice made with equal parts of tincture of oak bark, horse chestnut, and comfrey leaf, plus a few drops of lavender essential oil in a little St. John’s wort flower oil. It should be used ice-cold, so make the mixture strong, and then put it in the freezer. Apply twice daily for ten minutes. Depending on the cause of the phlebitis, other essential oils could be chosen.
Take regular hydrotherapy and use a slant board.
This Anti Inflammatory Herbs article is taken from :
The complete home guide to herbs, natural healing, and nutrition / Jill Rosemary Davies.
