SAFE
Aesculus hippocastanum (Horse chestnut)
Aesculus hippocastanum (seed extract, escin)
Possibly Safe
V2 Verified
Botanicals
PubMed Studies
2,400
About
Horse chestnut seed extract (HCSE) containing escin. Strong evidence for chronic venous insufficiency — improves leg oedema, pain, and heaviness (equivalent to compression stockings in some trials).
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
ANTICOAGULANT: escin antiplatelet and anticoagulant activity — AVOID with anticoagulants, NSAIDs. Renal: renal toxicity at very high doses — caution in renal disease. Raw seeds/leaves: TOXIC (aesculin, saponins) — only standardised, detoxified extracts (HCSE) safe. Drug interactions: warfarin, antidiabetics. Pregnancy: avoid.
🏷️ Other Names
Aesculus hippocastanum (seed extract, escin)