Peripheral edema is characterized by fluid retention and swelling of the extremities, especially the hands and feet. It may be caused by inactivity, changes in the weather as well as excess salt in the diet. If you have persistent or chronic edema, consult your doctor. Some herbal remedies may help alleviate fluid retention and reduce swelling. However, remember that natural therapies such as herbs should be used in conjunction with and not in the place of conventional medical care.
Celery Seed
Celery seed is not just used as a spice but has been prized for centuries as a natural diuretic. It is used by herbalists today to treat arthritis and gout, and to reduce fluid retention and inflammation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, celery seeds contain volatile oils and flavonoids that help protect the body's cells from free radical damage. To date there are no scientific studies in humans that validate the herb's safety and effectiveness, however. Consult your doctor before using celery for medicinal purposes, especially if you are taking over-the-counter or prescription diuretics.
Dandelion
Although considered a weed by most, dandelion has long been used as both food and medicine. Herbalists used dandelion traditionally to treat kidney infections, liver and gall bladder problems, and to relieve bloating due to premenstrual syndrome. Isabell Shipard, herbalist and author of "How Can I Use Herbs in my Daily Life?," explains that the herb is rich in important minerals such as calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc, and contains the vitamins A, B-1, B-2, B-3, C and E. Its main actions are diuretic and laxative, which means it helps expel excess fluid and waste from the body. Talk to your doctor before trying dandelion herb.
Horsetail
Horsetail is an ancient herb in the fern family that is similar in appearance to asparagus. It was used historically to treat kidney infections, heal wounds and stop bleeding. It is naturally diuretic and may be used to help increase fluid output and reduce swelling and inflammation. Herbalists today also use horsetail to treat kidney stones, urinary tract infections and topically to heal minor wounds. A study published in the November-December 1985 issue of "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" did show that horsetail extract has diuretic effects, and one published in the March 2004 "Pharmacology Research" showed that it reduced inflammation in laboratory mice. Check with your doctor before using horsetail to reduce edema.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle has long been used as an herbal diuretic. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that during medieval times it was used to alleviate fluid retention and joint pain and swelling. It is believed to be useful in treating muscle and joint pain, eczema, arthritis and gout. It is also sometimes used to treat urinary tract infections and urinary retention, the UMMC further reports. There are insufficient studies to validate all of these claims, so it is important to work with your health care practitioner before using stinging nettle to relieve symptoms of edema.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Ordinary and Not-So-Ordinary Causes of Swelling
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Celery Seed
- HerbsAreSpecial.com: Dandelion
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Diuretic Activity of Mexican Equisetum; R Perez Gutierrez, et al.; November-Decmeber 1985
- "Pharmacology Research"; Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of the Hydroalcoholic Extract of Stems from Equisetum Arvense L. in Mice; F Do Monte, et al.; 2004
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Stinging Nettle
