Swollen ankles occur when fluid accumulates in the space between the body's cells. Also known as edema, fluid retention is not a serious condition, although if your ankles are frequently swollen, it may signal a health problem. However, swollen ankles are commonly caused by standing for long periods of time, pregnancy and some medicines. If you suffer from swollen ankles, you can help to drain fluid by resting with your legs elevated to the same level as your heart or wearing compression bandages. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe diuretics to reduce fluid levels. Some herbs may also have diuertic effects and could help to alleviate swollen ankles. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using them.
Examples
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that several herbs may help to improve fluid retention, including dandelion and bilberry. Also known as blowball or Taraxacum mongolicum, dandelion is used in traditional Chinese medicine to reduce abscesses and act as a diuretic, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Bilberry is a fruit that is commonly used to make jams and may also be eaten raw. It is used as an alternative remedy for a variety of disorders, including eye problems, and it may also help to improve circulation.
Administration
Bilberry and dandelion may both be taken as teas or as liquid tinctures. However, you may prefer to take them in capsules. UMMC suggests taking 80 mg to 100 mg of a standardized extract of bilberry three times daily. If you prefer, UMMC notes that you may soak 4 g to 10 g of dried dandelion leaf in a cup of hot water, allow the mixture to cool and strain before drinking.
Safety and Side Effects
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that short-term use of bilberry extract is likely safe when used at recommended doses. However, NCCAM adds that its long-term safety has not been established. Don't take bilberry leaf extract -- it may be toxic. RxList states that dandelion is likely safe but that it may cause an allergic reaction in some people. It may also cause heartburn, dyspepsia and hypoglycemia.
Contraindications
Avoid both these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Don't use dandelion if you are allergic to this plant or if you are taking lithium, antibiotics or diuretics. Bilberry and dandelion may both lower blood sugar levels so don't take it alongside drugs that have a hypoglycemic effect. Bilberry may reduce the blood's ability to clot so don't use it if you are due to undergo surgery. It may heighten the effects of other drugs you may be taking, including anticoagulants and diabetes medicines.
