Herbal drugs in chronic venous disease treatment: An update

Abstract

The prevalence of chronic venous disease (CVD) is relatively high, it affects 20-80 % of the population worldwide. CVD may affect any veins in the human body, however, the veins of the lower extremities are the most susceptible to this condition. Among therapeutic possibilities for CVD, mainly chronic venous insufficiency, some medicinal plants (Ruscus aculeatus L., Aesculus hippocastanum L., Centella asiatica (L.) Urb.) and their active compounds (ruscoside, aescin, asiaticoside) or close derivatives also have important places. This review describes shortly the updated knowledge on pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, evaluation, and diagnostics of CVD as well as treatment modalities. The primary focus of this review is on the existing knowledge about botanical medications for treating chronic venous disease (CVD). It covers the chemical makeup of these plant drugs, their pharmacological effects, results from clinical trials involving humans, and any associated safety concerns.

Keywords: Chronic venous disease; Clinical efficacy; Clinical studies; Medicinal plants; Pharmacology; Phytotherapy; Safety issues.