Botanical Overview
Aesculus hippocastanum, commonly known as Horse Chestnut or Conker Tree, belongs to the family Hippocastanaceae (sometimes placed in Sapindaceae). This deciduous tree is native to Europe and Western Asia. The medicinal parts primarily include the seeds, bark, leaves, and flowers.
Energetics
The energetics of horse chestnut are characterized by a neutral temperature and a drying moisture quality. It has a bitter and astringent taste profile, with a descending directionality. The herb is tonifying in nature and primarily supports the qi aspect of physiology.
Primary Actions
- Venotonic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Vasoprotective
Indications
Western
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Varicose veins
- Hemorrhoids
- Leg swelling
- Venous edema
- Bruising
- Venous stasis ulcers
Syndromes
- Venous insufficiency
- Vascular fragility
- Chronic venous disorders
TCM
No traditional uses documented.
Ayurveda
No traditional uses documented.
Unani
No traditional uses documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include aescin (escin), saponins, flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, and polyphenols which contribute to the plant’s venotonic, anti-inflammatory, and vasoprotective effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Oral extracts standardized to 16-20% aescin, typically dosed at 100-150 mg daily
- Topical creams containing 0.5-1% horse chestnut seed extract for local application
- Less common infusions using bark and leaves, not standardized
Safety & Contraindications
Horse chestnut seed extract is generally safe when used appropriately. Raw parts contain toxic glucosides and should not be consumed unprocessed. Avoid use in pregnancy, lactation, bleeding disorders, and concurrent anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy due to bleeding risk. Topical application may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Aesculus hippocastanum L., semen – European Medicines Agency (2017)
- Phytotherapy: A Quick Reference to Herbal Medicine – Bradley, P. (2006)
- Horse chestnut seed extract in chronic venous insufficiency: meta-analysis – Pittler MH et al. (2007)
- Aesculus hippocastanum L. – Plants for a Future Database (2023)