Cardiac edema is the swelling around the ankles, legs, abdominal wall or chest wall. It occurs when the body is retaining fluids. It is generally a sign of heart disease. Health care professionals will usually prescribe a diuretic to decrease fluid retention. These medications promote your kidneys to produce more waste and filter excess fluids from your body. As an alternative to prescribed medications, there are many herbs that can act as a diuretic. Herbs can be used in onset edema but also can prevent worsening edema in the future. Always consult your physician before starting any type of herbal supplementation.
Edema
Cardiac edema is a sign of underlying heart disease. It occurs when there is too much water or lymph fluid in the cells of the body. The site of the edema serves as a signal for different problems that can occur in the heart. For example, if there is a problem with the right side of the heart, you will see more swelling in the lower extremities. Edema tends to occur more often in the evening after being on your feet all day and can cause shortness of breath.
Dandelion
The leaves and the roots of the dandelion are rich in vitamin A and can be used as a diuretic. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 4 to 10 g of the dried leaf can be consumed. The greens can be dried and added to tea or taken as a capsule or an extract. It should not be used if you are currently taking a diuretic, have gallbladder disease or are on any blood-thinner medications.
Grape seed
Grape seeds are a strong antioxidant and protect against cell damage. In clinical studies, it has been shown to be beneficial in heart conditions such as hardening of the arteries, poor circulation and venous insufficiency. Grape seed can be taken in tablet or capsule form; 360 mg twice daily can decrease edema caused by venous insufficiency. According to the Natural Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, in clinical studies, grape seed has been well tolerated up to eight weeks. However, there is insufficient evidence for grape seed and medication interactions.
Bilberry
Bilberry is an antioxidant that contains anthocyanosides, which aid in blood distribution throughout the body. Fluids in the body are also distributed by these anthocyanosides and keep edema controlled. Bilberry can be used up to three times daily in 100 mg capsules. Research has shown bilberry to be used for short periods of time, and it should not be taken while using a blood thinner.
References
- Natural Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Herbs at a Glance: Dandelion
- Natural Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Herbs at a Glance: Grape Seed Extract
- U.S. Medical Research; Herbs as an Alternative and Integrative Treatment for Edema
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Edema
- Yale University School of Medicine Heart Book; Heart Disease Symptoms; Dr. Lawrence Cohen
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