Hippocastanaceae

General information

The family of Hippocastanaceae contains the single genus Aesculus (buckeye, horse chestnut). Aescin is the major active principle from the horse chestnut tree ( Aesculus hippocastanum ) and is claimed to have clinical activity in venous insufficiency. Investigations in animal models indicate anti-edematous, anti-inflammatory and venotonic properties. Aescin is a complex mixture of triterpene saponins. It consists of a water-soluble fraction (alpha-aescin) and a water-insoluble fraction (beta-aescin).

A systematic review of randomized trials of extracts of horse chestnut in chronic venous insufficiency showed that adverse reactions are usually mild, for example pruritus, nausea, headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal symptoms [ ].

Organs and systems