Billed as one of the best-selling herbs in the world today, this active ingredient is said to contain dozens of nutrients and other isolated components, but flavonoids and terpenoids are believed to offer the most potential for health-related support. Some proponents and enthusiasts in general claim these may act as powerful antioxidants, protecting the body from free radical damage.

The same sources appear to tout this extract as capable of protecting the blood vessels, heart muscle, the eyes and more from various forms of damage. While some studies may have been conducted on this ingredient, we are not confident that it has been proven to be effective for reducing the symptoms of varicose and spider veins, which may include swelling and heaviness in the legs.

The unsightly bulging or discolored veins that may show up on the legs or on other parts of the body may trigger embarrassment and self-consciousness, especially when exposed in public. As such, afflicted women and men may avoid wearing shorts or mini-skirts in warm weather, and may even pass on traditional summertime trips to the beach.

And yet, the ingredient in question appears to be promoted more for improving memory function and eye problems, rather than preventing and relieving the symptoms of venous disorders. We feel that perhaps this extract may be useful when used in conjunction with a more potent ingredient that is known specifically to promote vascular improvement.

Some ingredients, such as the herb in question, may be heavily backed by anecdotal evidence, but may lack the concrete forms of support that indicate how effective a product truly may be. A plant flavonoid called Diosmin 95®, which was once available only with a prescription overseas, is now available in the U.S. without a doctor’s recommendation.

Diosmin 95® has been shown in many clinical studies with thousands of participants to be effective in offering both preventative and ongoing support for those dealing with venous disorders. This potent active ingredient is said to have been used for many decades around the world, and it is finally available in the U.S. through select companies.

• Some believe it may improve memory
• The ingredient is not associated with serious side effects

• May not be the best available choice for vascular therapy
• May not be as effective as Diosmin 95®
• It may not be enough to take this herb once daily for best results
• Consumer testimonials seem to conflict with one another

Ginkgo Biloba may be fairly well-known for its health-promoting properties, considering most manufacturers of supplements and health products seem to advertise it as a potent miracle herb. However, we would like to see some more evidence before signing off on its effectiveness for women and men suffering from varicose and spider veins.

Those who are skeptical of new products may be glad to hear that money-back guarantees may be available even for premium supplements, such as those that contain Diosmin 95®. An individual may simply return the unused portion to the manufacturer for a full refund – no questions asked. Of course, such offers may be available only from select companies.