Understanding water retention
Home remedies for water retention
Do your legs and arms feel more swollen than usual and does your skin look tight? If so, you may be suffering from water retention (oedema)
.Water retention usually goes unnoticed, but can quickly lead to many problems. In certain circumstances, water retention can cause serious complications such as pain or difficulty walking. The good news is that there are home remedies that can help you with water retention. From refreshing teas and relaxing compresses to simple adjustments to your daily routine, these tips will help you to gently eliminate excess fluid.
What is water retention?
Water retention, also known as oedema, is swelling in parts of the body. Water retention can occur in the legs, ankles or feet, but also in the face and hands, and is caused by fluid retention in body tissue.
Sitting for long periods during the working day or when travelling by plane, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and even standing for too long can be the cause. Your body consists of 50 to 60 per cent water. If your water balance is not balanced, your body tends to cling to this water. But some serious health problems can also cause oedema.
If you want to find out more about possible causes of water retention, read our article explaining how water retention can occur.
Symptoms of water retention
Water retention can make you feel heavier than usual and less mobile or active. You may experience pain in your legs and arms, making it difficult for you to move. But that's not all: the symptoms of water retention can be more varied:
bloating, especially in the abdominal area
swollen legs, feet and ankles
swelling of the abdomen, face and hips
stiff joints
Weight fluctuations
You can read more about symptoms of water retention in our article.
Home remedies for water retention
Fortunately, there are natural home remedies that can help you remove excess fluid from your body and improve your overall well-being. These home remedies are easy to use and gentle on your body. A great way to naturally combat water retention. From soothing teas and refreshing foods to relaxing treatments, discover how you can tackle water retention with home remedies.
What is a diuretic?
A diuretic, also known as a ‘water pill’, is a substance or medication that increases the production of urine in the body. The main aim of a diuretic is to eliminate excess fluid from the body.
Nutrition and drinks
Herbal teas
- Nettle tea: This tea can help you as it has mild diuretic properties. Drink 2-3 cups a day to support your fluid balance.
- Dandelion tea: A traditional remedy to promote diuresis that can help with occasional water retention.
- Green tea: In addition to antioxidants, it also contains substances that can support fluid regulation in the body.
The effect of herbs
Thanks to its diuretic properties,lemon verbena can help to drain the body and reduce fluid retention. It can also help reduce stress and digestive problems such as bloating and constipation.
Horsetail is an herb rich in micronutrients (silicon, potassium, manganese, etc.) and other beneficial compounds (e.g. phytosterols, phenol derivatives). In addition to its beneficial effects on joints, bones, hair, skin and nails, it can have a diuretic effect and help reduce fluid retention.
Nettle is a valuable herb that can also be used as a natural diuretic. Nettle can help to eliminate excess water, reducing swelling and alleviating troublesome water retention.
Parsley can be used as an herb to help reduce fluid retention (also known as ‘water retention’ or ‘oedema’). It contains a number of nutrients, including potassium, and can have a diuretic effect.
Dandelion has been used for hundreds of years as a herbal remedy for various ailments. The extracts of its leaves can have a mild diuretic and draining effect.
Dandelion can also help detoxify the kidneys and alleviate the symptoms of mild indigestion.
Green coffee and green tea are used to help reduce oedema, lose weight and treat cellulite.
Water and infused water
- Drink enough water: Drink enough water to keep your body well hydrated. This can help to eliminate excess fluid naturally.
- Infused water: Water infused with fresh herbs or fruits such as cucumber, lemon or mint can also help you to drink more fluids.
Dehydrating foods
- Cucumber: With its high water content, it is not only refreshing but can also help with hydration.
- Watermelon: This fruit is not only delicious, but can also help to support your fluid balance.
- Celery: Contains potassium and can help regulate fluid balance.
- You can find more foods that can help combat water retention in our article.
External applications and compresses
Cold compresses and wraps
- Cold compresses: A cool bath or cold compresses can have a calming effect and reduce swelling.
Massage and exercise
- Compression massage: A gentle massage can promote blood circulation and lymph flow and improve your comfort.
- Self-massage: Use gentle, circular movements along the legs and arms to promote blood circulation and support well-being.
Understanding water retention
Home remedies for water retention
Home remedies can play a supportive role in relieving water retention and improving your well-being. Choose the remedies that suit your individual needs and combine them with an active lifestyle. However, if you have persistent or serious symptoms, you should not hesitate to seek professional medical advice.
