horse chestnut extract (Aesculus hippocastanum) is anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and promotes improved circulation. It apparently also has the ability to help reduce the permeability of capillaries. This would make it useful in cases of fragile or broken capillaries. Tannic acid provides horse chestnut extract with toning and astringent properties. Horse chestnut is recommended for use in products designed to stimulate circulation and normalize circulatory disorders, such as creams for improving circulation, and bath salts for the stimulation of the whole organism. Some suppliers cite a recommended dosage of 2 to 5 percent for use in creams and emulsions, and others cite 1 to 10 percent for bath and hair products. Constituents include starch, sugar, protein, tannin, oil, vitamins, phytosterol, and an Aesculus Saponin content. The extract is usually obtained from the seed (fruit).
