Unless you've recently injured your ankles, the swelling is likely fluid retention, or edema. It may remain localized in the ankles, or it may spread to the feet and calves, especially after long periods of sitting or standing. Some chronic conditions can also cause fluid retention, so treatment of the underlying problem is essential. Consult your doctor before trying any herbal remedy to be sure it isn't contraindicated by your condition.
Grape-Seed Extract
Grape-seed extract contains antioxidants and may help increase the efficiency of the veins in your legs. By helping your veins transport blood faster, you decrease the chance that the blood will pool in your lower extremities and cause swelling. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking a twice-daily dose of 360 mg of a standardized extract, but consult your doctor first. Grape-seed extract may increase your risk of bleeding if you are also taking blood-thinning medications.
Dandelion
Dandelion has a diuretic effect, which means it flushes excess fluid from the body. There is no hard evidence of its effectiveness at the time of publication, but anecdotal evidence suggests it may be helpful to reduce fluid retention. Dosages vary depending upon the severity and the individual case, but the UMMC recommends steeping 4 to 10 g of dried dandelion leaves in hot water and drinking as a tea. Don't use dandelions that you find outside, because they may be contaminated by pesticides, herbicides or road dirt -- purchase your leaves from an herbal retailer. Don't use dandelion if you are allergic to ragweed, and consult your doctor first if you are taking antibiotics, lithium, water pills or medications that are changed by the liver.
Horsetail
Horsetail is used for a variety of conditions other than edema, but evidence of its effectiveness is only anecdotal. Horsetail is believed to be an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that may also have diuretic properties, so it may attack fluid retention on multiple fronts. MedlinePlus states that horsetail may be harmful when taken long term, so it should be a temporary solution, at best. Consult your doctor first, especially if you have diabetes or low potassium levels or are taking lithium, chromium, thiamine or areca.
Bilberry
Bilberry is used to treat retinal issues because it helps increase circulation, and this same property may help keep blood from settling in your lower legs. The UMMC recommends taking an 80- to 100-mg dose three times per day, but MedlinePlus suggests steeping 1 or 2 tsp. of chopped, dried leaves in hot water for up to 10 minutes, then drinking as tea. Don't take bilberry for long periods of time, or before surgery, because it could affect glucose levels. Consult your doctor first, especially if you are taking anticoagulant drugs, diabetes drugs, or any supplement that lowers your blood sugar or contains chromium.
