Chestnut tree - ointment, leaves, chestnut properties... How to use a chestnut decoction?
Alicja Kowalska
2026-03-19
4 min. read
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Chestnut tree is an extremely decorative tree that often dominates along park avenues or paths. Only a few people are aware that it is also a raw material that provides unique health and cosmetic benefits. It has been used for a long time, even by Maria Skłodowska-Curie herself, who used an ointment containing chestnuts to treat varicose veins... You can read about the other properties of this plant in this article.
Edible Castanese
The edible Castanese is a tree belonging to the beech family, originating from Greece, Iran, and the southern part of Asia Minor. In Poland, it is most commonly found as an ornamental plant and can be found in parks, along roads and alleys. It is characterized by a dense and wide canopy and seven-lobed leaves. As a medicinal raw material, it mainly uses leaves, seeds, bark, flower, as well as immature fruit. However, it is important to note that it should not be used in cases of hypersensitivity or renal insufficiency, as well as on open wounds and in pregnant or nursing women.
Characteristics of chestnut
Its properties are extensive. Its efficacy in treating inflammatory conditions of the circulatory system and vascular diseases (varicose veins of the lower legs and rectum) has been confirmed. Notably, it is capable of reducing the permeability of the walls of blood vessels, strengthening them, and restoring their elasticity. Additionally, it increases the tension of the vein walls, seals the walls of blood vessels, and restores their permeabilities to a normal state. It is significant that chestnut is an inhibitor of certain enzymes, which have been found to be active in patients with varicose veins. It can be useful in the treatment of traumatic and postoperative conditions. Furthermore, it exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects. Scientific studies indicate that it improves peripheral circulation and the blood supply to the skin and organs composed of smooth muscles. There are also reports of its effectiveness in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia and associated disorders. Its saponin content enables it to also function as an expectorant, even in chronic smokers.
A leaf from a chestnut tree, also known as a chestnut leaf
They are very rarely used, as most of the health benefits come from the bark and fruits of this tree. However, chestnut leaves also contain many active chemical compounds such as coumarins, saponins, flavonoids, and tannins, which give them antibacterial properties. In addition, they have a positive impact on the digestive system, exhibiting antispasmodic and antibacterial activity, and even mildly laxative. To a lesser extent, these leaves may also influence the circulatory system by supporting peripheral circulation, improving the flexibility of blood vessels, and counteracting venous stasis. Therefore, they are often used as natural remedies for varicose veins and even hemorrhoids.
The Horse Chestnut Salve
This specialized cream, produced from horse chestnut extract, is highly effective in preventing venous congestion and the formation of edemas, making it an excellent aid in treating veins, both on lower extremities and around the anus. The cream is also effective in the prophylaxis of this condition, hence its use is particularly recommended for individuals predisposed to venous diseases. The properties of this preparation were appreciated not only by notable figures such as Maria Skłodowska-Curie, but also by numerous medical specialists.
Chestnut cordial
The chestnut cordial contributes to enhanced blood circulation. Furthermore, it counters varicose veins and edema and is effective in alleviating muscle and joint discomfort. To this end, it is recommended to massage the affected areas with the beverage. Recommended recipe for the chestnut cordial: Ingredients: several ripe chestnuts, a glass of boiled and chilled water, half a liter of alcohol. Preparation: combine the chestnuts with water and alcohol in a sealed container and let them sit for a month. Remember to shake the container periodically. After this period, the liquid should be strained and stored in the refrigerator. It is recommended to consume approximately 5 drops of the beverage in a glass of water, around three times daily.
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