Horse Chestnut vs Pilewort

Horse chestnut is a large tree native to southeastern Europe whose seed extract is one of the best-studied herbal remedies for chronic venous insufficiency. Its primary compound, aescin, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and venotonic properties. Raw horse chestnuts are toxic; only standardized, processed extracts should be used.

Named for its specific traditional use for hemorrhoids (piles) — one of the few herbs truly specific for this condition.

Aescin (escin), Proanthocyanidins, Coumarins, Flavonoids, Kaempferol

Protoanemonin (dried), Anemonin, Saponins, Tannins

Vein health, Hemorrhoid treatment, Swelling reduction, Circulatory support, Anti-inflammatory

Hemorrhoids, Varicose veins, Perineal tearing

Chronic venous insufficiency, Varicose veins, Hemorrhoids, Leg edema, Post-surgical edema

Venotonic, Anti-inflammatory (topical), Astringent

300mg standardized extract (50mg aescin) twice daily

Topical ointment only — not recommended internally

Bleeding disorders, Kidney disease, Liver disease, Concurrent blood thinners, Raw seed consumption (toxic)

Internal use, Pregnancy, Broken skin (fresh plant)

GI upset, Nausea, Itching, Headache, Dizziness, TOXICITY IF RAW SEEDS CONSUMED

Skin irritation (fresh plant), GI toxicity (internal)