A variety of Chinese herbal and other remedies, such as acupuncture, are available for the treatment of water retention and bloating. Edema, or fluid retention, may be caused by several factors, including hormonal imbalance, foods eaten, blood chemistry and pH, and medications. Traditional Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years. It encompasses both acupuncture and herbal preparations. Often used together, these treatments may be effective in reducing edema and helping to stabilize bodily tissues. Some herbs may produce side effects, so a health practitioner or doctor of Oriental medicine should be consulted before beginning treatment.
Step 1
Consume dandelion tea for its diuretic properties. It may stimulate the production of urine and rid the body of excess fluids, states the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC.
Step 2
Infuse 2 tsp. fresh dandelion leaves or 1 tsp. of the dried tea leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes, recommends UMMC. Strain and drink throughout the day as directed by a health practitioner to reduce fluid retention.
Step 3
Take 100 to 150 drops of dandelion tincture or extract, three times daily; or use dandelion powdered extract in quantities of 500mg as directed to reduce bloating and water retention. The different methods of using dandelion can be combined; however, consult an herbalist or other health practitioners for directions and dosing before doing so.
Step 4
Drink burdock root tea, another herb used by the Chinese, to reduce edema and water retention in the legs and feet, writes Urban Herbs. Make the tea or infusion by steeping a teaspoonful of dried burdock root in a cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the herb and drink as directed. In addition, add fresh burdock root to salads or boil and eat like carrots or asparagus.
Step 5
Make a poultice from the leaves of the burdock plant and apply topically to reduce swelling and fluid retention. Warm the leaves in hot water and place them between two layers of cloth to create a poultice. Place the poultice on the swollen area and allow it to remain until it cools. This treatment can be repeated as needed.
Step 6
Visit an acupuncturist for treatments to reduce bloating and congestion associated with premenstrual problems, writes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although there is no scientific evidence showing the efficacy of acupuncture for reducing edema and other forms of fluid retention, there is anecdotal evidence indicating it may be an effective treatment technique for use during pre-menstrual periods. In addition, acupuncture may be helpful in treating bloating and edema in perimenstrual women, states Louisiana University.
Tips and Warnings
- Dandelion is one of the bitter herbs and used extensively by both Chinese and Western herbalists to stimulate digestion and for ailments of the digestive tract. Burdock root is considered to be a diuretic and a blood cleanser, with anti-inflammatory properties. Anecdotal evidence indicates that burdock root may be helpful for people with kidney problems and gout with concomitant bodily swelling, bloating and fluid retention, especially in the lower limbs.
- Some people develop a rash from the topical application of the burdock leaves. If a rash develops, stop using the leaves and consult a health practitioner if symptoms persist. Dandelion is considered safe in most cases; however, some people may be allergic to the leaves, or it may produce sores in the mouth. It may also produce increased heartburn and acid reflux in sensitive people. If side effects occur, stop using it immediately and consult with a health practitioner if symptoms persist. If swelling of the mouth, tongue, lips or throat occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Herbal preparations to reduce bloating and water retention should not be used if one is taking diuretic medication or certain blood pressure medicines. A health practitioner should be consulted before taking any herbs.
Things You'll Need
- Dandelion leaves
- Dried dandelion tea
- Dried burdock root
- Fresh burdock leaves
- Acupuncture practitioner
