Water retention, or edema and bloating, may by the result of an underlying medical condition. Excess fluid build up in your tissue can also occur because of mineral imbalances in your diet. Natural herb supplements may help relieve the symptoms of fluid retention. Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., health expert with the Mayo Clinic, recommends consulting with your physician before attempting to treat yourself with natural herbs. If edema is being caused by an undiagnosed medical condition, even natural products can have negative effects and interact with certain medications.
Dandelion
According to Michael DiPalma, N.D., director of natural medicine at Newtown Medical Center in Pennsylvania, dandelion is one of the best herbs for treating bloating and water retention. Not only does dandelion contain effective diuretic properties, it also supplies potassium, which many prescription strength diuretics deplete. You can also take dandelion in it's tincture form; however, tinctures contain alcohol and may not be as effective as dandelion tea or capsules.
Chickweed
Anywhere around the world where you can find moist, cultivated soil, you may also find chickweed growing. Chickweed, a green weedy plant, is a natural mild diuretic and a source of vital nutrients like potassium, calcium and iron. A fresh tender green, chickweed can make a tasty addition to any salad. If you prefer a drink, the herb can be juiced or blended with other juices. You can also find chickweed in tincture form or as an ingredient in herbal diuretic capsules or tablets.
Bilberry
Both the leaves and the fruit of the bilberry are used to make a stimulating tonic for urinary and kidney function. To treat urinary infections, or as a diuretic to relieve edema, mix bilberry juice with cranberry or uvi-ursi juice for a potent herbal drink. Bilberry can also be purchased as a standardized extract from the health food store. The leaves can also be used for tea and the berries can be used to make wine or jam.
Buchu
Buchu is a healing herb originating from South Africa. Introduced to America in the mid 1800s, buchu quickly became a popular remedy for urinary and kidney problems. Buchu leaves have a strong, aromatic, somewhat mint-like flavor. Because of the high amounts of volatile oils, sulphur compounds and flavanoids, buchu acts as a strong diuretic. The pleasant flavor of buchu and it's water solubility, makes it an ideal herb for tea. It also comes in tincture form, and can be taken as daily drops on the tongue. Bucho is not recommended for pregnant women.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Water retention: Are there any natural diuretics
- Mother Nature: Nature's medicines water retention
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2008
