Diuretics for swelling of the legs: tablets and herbs (photo)

Nowadays medicine has a huge number of different drugs. Due to the growth of technological progress, most of them are produced on a synthetic basis. Such drugs often have many contraindications. Against their background, the safest are natural medicines made from natural ingredients.

Diuretic herbs are a very effective, affordable and easy-to-use remedy that can be taken for a wide variety of illnesses, including swelling of the legs in young and old people. If you need to get rid of a problem quickly and without consequences, or carry out effective prevention, you should definitely pay attention to them.

What is leg swelling

Swelling of the legs is an external manifestation of the accumulation of fluid in the body. At the same time, the limb itself noticeably increases in size, the skin on it becomes loose, and when pressed, dents appear that do not disappear instantly.

Swelling usually occurs in the evening, although it can still cause discomfort the next morning. It is localized:

• in the feet;
• in the ankles;
• in the legs;
• from socks to knee.

Depending on the reasons, either one leg or both may swell. Symmetrical distribution often indicates generalized edema, which may be a symptom of a life-threatening condition.

If this trouble appears rarely, then you can fight it with folk remedies. The regularity of occurrence indicates a disease of the internal organs. Therefore, it is important to establish the nature of the swelling.

note

Complaints that the legs swell during pregnancy are perhaps the most common complaints that doctors who observe the expectant mother hear.
And here you need to know a number of important nuances. Edema during pregnancy can be hidden or obvious. A woman can easily identify obvious swelling: during pregnancy, ankles swell, marks from the elastic bands of socks or knee socks remain on the legs for a long time, shoes are difficult to put on. But with hidden edema, the situation is more complicated: they do not immediately attract attention, so the woman takes measures late to get rid of them. The expectant mother needs to keep an eye on the following points:

• weight increases by more than 300-400 grams per week
• Ankle circumference increases approximately 1 cm per week
• the volume of fluid excreted is less than 75% of the volume of fluid consumed (measurements are usually made in a medical facility)

Also, to detect edema, the doctor can conduct a blister test, in which a saline solution is injected under the skin on the arm, and the presence of internal edema can be judged by the speed of its resorption.

Please note: a pregnant woman should also carefully monitor the location of swelling. Unfortunately, swelling of the legs occurs in almost all expectant mothers. However, if they begin to spread higher, moving to the stomach, chest, face, you need to urgently consult a doctor!

Causes of leg swelling

When there is too much fluid in the tissues, it means that there is a malfunction in the functioning of the body. Most often, swelling is caused by:

• protein metabolism disorder;
• damage to cell membranes, increasing their permeability;
• changes in pressure differences in tissues and vessels;
• impaired blood circulation.

There are many reasons for such failures. Some are temporary (allergic reaction, bruise, infection). Others indicate the development of pathologies of the lower extremities (varicose veins, thrombophlebitis). Still others indicate serious diseases of the internal organs (heart, kidneys, lymphatic system).

A person cannot independently determine why his foot is swollen: because of uncomfortable shoes or because of a blocked blood vessel. Therefore, you should not postpone a visit to the doctor for subsequent treatment.

The most popular plants

Parsley seeds

Parsley is used in the treatment of swelling and has proven itself to be an effective and gentle remedy. The use of infusions and decoctions will remove excess fluid and harmful substances from the human body. By adding parsley, roots or seeds, you can prevent the occurrence of edema. The plant contains a large amount of flavonoids. These are antioxidants that fight the effects of free radicals on the body: they prevent the accumulation of excess fluid and tone tissues and cells.

Parsley seeds

Celery

The juice of the plant contains a large amount of minerals, almost all the vitamins necessary to maintain the human body in a healthy state. Traditional medicine uses celery to treat edema. Sodium, potassium and magnesium, which maintain water-salt balance, are contained in the juice of the plant. When consuming celery, the liver and kidneys are stimulated and the elimination of toxic substances is accelerated. Excess water is released from the body and the normal ratio of fluid in the interstitial space and tissues is restored. Scientists who have conducted research on the plant are confident that its action can be compared to ginseng.

Celery should not be taken by both pregnant and nursing mothers. The specific taste of breast milk depends on it and its production decreases.

Celery

Anise

It is used when it is necessary to remove swelling due to pathologies of the urinary tract. To prepare the infusion, you need to take only raw seeds. Pour two liters of boiling water over a teaspoon of raw materials. Leave for 3 days. Before each meal you should take a tablespoon. The seeds will help relieve swelling and normalize metabolism. Anise should not be used by pregnant women.

Anise

Linen

The fastest acting remedy. The patient feels the urge to urinate after the first intake of flax. In just 1-2 days, the fluid that caused the swelling can be removed from the body. The decoction is prepared from 3 tablespoons of flax seeds, which are poured with a liter of boiling water. The mixture should brew. If the resulting decoction is too bitter, add a little honey or a few drops of lemon juice to it. Treatment with seeds should be carried out when it is possible to be at home, since flax is a very strong natural diuretic.

Linen

Lingonberry leaves

Lingonberry leaves are saturated with minerals and vitamins: calcium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, C, B. It is used as a prophylactic, immunostimulant and for the treatment of vitamin deficiency. The flavonoids that make up the plant have a positive effect on blood vessels, tone them, and normalize blood pressure. Protein, which is easily digestible, will help during rehabilitation after poisoning, after serious illnesses and a strict diet. All substances are antioxidants. They protect the cells of the human body from the effects of free radicals, which disrupt the process of normal tissue reproduction and accelerate aging.

Lingonberry leaves

Shepherd's Purse

The plant has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
Using shepherd's purse externally, as a lotion, relieves swelling, reduces inflammation, and can stop the bleeding of small wounds on the mucous membranes and on the surface of the skin. The use of medicinal herbs helps with the removal of stones, with diseases of the excretory system, and is used for inflammatory, severe processes. Shepherd's purse has a vasodilator, diuretic, and antifever effect. The plant normalizes sleep, has a calming effect and counteracts depression and stress. Traditional medicine uses shepherd's purse to cleanse the liver, kidneys, gall bladder, and for the heart muscle - as an additional vitamin.

Shepherd's Purse

Why does one leg swell?

If the swelling is asymmetrical, its cause is localized directly in the affected limb. Swelling may occur due to bruises on the legs or more serious injuries:

• ankle joint injuries;
• meniscus tear;
• separation of the calf muscle;
• bone fracture;
• tissue compression.

Venous edema is also most often unilateral. Varicose veins cause fluid stagnation, but they are localized in one limb where the vessels are affected. This is indicated by the characteristic venous network.

Thrombophlebitis disrupts blood circulation, and at the same time the outflow of fluid from tissues. In this case, swelling is accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms: fever, pain, compaction in the blockage area.

Why do both legs swell?

If by the end of the day both lower limbs are swollen, it means that excess fluid is present throughout the body. Most often this condition is caused by:

• heat;
• excessive fluid intake;
• obesity;
• uncomfortable shoes (tight, high heels, completely flat soles);
• flat feet;
• unhealthy diet (lots of salty and spicy foods in the diet);
• standing on your feet for a long time or in an uncomfortable position.

Fluid stagnation in these cases is caused by improper load distribution. None of the above indicates a threat to life, and the swelling goes away in a day or two. For some, it is enough to take off their shoes and relax, while others resort to folk remedies to relieve discomfort. But symmetrically swollen legs can also indicate more serious diseases that require urgent treatment.

When general swelling indicates danger to life

Sometimes swelling of the lower extremities is a symptom of a general imbalance in the body's hydrobalance. In the case of heart failure, the body's main muscle cannot cope with pumping blood. The fluid in the body is distributed unevenly, and too much accumulates at the bottom. If the patient stands or sits in one position for a long time, his feet and legs swell.

Kidney failure can also lead to swelling. It appears not only on the legs, but also on the arms, face (mainly under the eyes), and abdominal wall.

If cardiac edema develops gradually (over weeks), then renal edema develops very quickly. With cardiac diseases, the skin becomes colder, with kidney diseases it maintains a normal temperature.

Fluid retention can also be caused by lymphedema, which is damage to the lymphatic vessels. The swelling in this case is dense; after pressing on the skin, there is no indentation.

How does herbal medicine work?

Herbs with a diuretic or diuretic effect have a mild effect on the human body, aimed at the pathological focus. In the absence of intolerance to any component, they have a beneficial effect on well-being. Some herbs disinfect and relieve pain, while others, by removing excess fluid with urine, act as an anti-inflammatory agent. In any case, you must first consult with your doctor which natural diuretics can be used for your diagnosis.

Diuretic herbs:

• normalize pressure, both fundus and intracranial;
• slow down the penetration of salt into the renal tubules;
• improve renal blood circulation;
• act as antioxidants;
• influence the course of epilepsy (beneficial);
• relieve muscle spasms.

Why do feet swell during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the outflow of fluid is often disrupted. This is explained by large-scale changes occurring in the body:

• weight gain;
• changes in hormonal levels;
• compression of the inferior vena cava by the enlarging uterus;
• decreased mobility;
• diet correction.

In most cases, swelling is considered as a variant of the physiological norm. There is no need to resort to drug treatment; it is enough to keep the situation under control. However, the spread of edema throughout the body can result in serious pathologies, such as preeclampsia.

The expectant mother should monitor the dynamics of the increase in calf circumference, blood pressure and the ratio of fluid consumed and excreted. The kidneys experience increased stress during pregnancy, so at the first alarming symptoms it is better to be examined by a nephrologist.

Natural diuretics for facial swelling

The following plants:

• flax seeds;
• half fell;
• corn silk;
• beet leaves.

flax seeds

Half-fallen

Corn silk

Beet leaves

Treatment of leg swelling

The treatment package depends on the cause of the unpleasant symptom. If it is not associated with serious diseases, but is caused by improper distribution of the load, it is enough to locally relieve the swelling. This can be done at home.

If it is caused by local reactions (bruise, allergy, infection), then it is necessary to provide the victim with the necessary assistance:

• treat the damaged area;
• apply ice;
• give medicine.

Sometimes this can be done at home, sometimes medical attention is required. After a few days, the swelling will disappear as the tissue heals.

Drug treatment under the supervision of a phlebologist is required for varicose veins and thrombophlebitis. If the disease is advanced, surgery may be required. After restoration of venous tone and normal blood circulation, external symptoms will disappear.

Characteristic features of edema

Diseases of this kind have characteristic features:

• They appear in the evening.
• Swelling increases in sitting and lying positions, decreases while walking.
• Excess fluid is accompanied by pain and heaviness in the legs.
• Edema associated with heart disease involves shortness of breath, but edema caused by varicose veins does not.

Interesting fact. Herbal treatment has been proven not just for years or decades, but for entire millennia. In the absence of specialized drugs, our ancestors saved themselves exclusively by roots, bushes and other vegetation. This gives us the right to consider diuretic herbs as one of the most proven and effective remedies today.

How to relieve swelling after a bruise

Treatment for a leg bruise usually comes down to eliminating pain and swelling. The swelling in this case is caused by damage to the blood vessels and the accumulation of fluid from them under the skin. The latter puts pressure on the nerve endings, hence the pain. So eliminating swelling also helps to get rid of unpleasant sensations.

You can help a bruised limb at home:

• stretch and provide peace;
• apply a wet towel, ice or a heating pad with cold water;
• apply a tight bandage.

You can also resort to drug treatment. External agents containing troxerutin or heparin will help. They strengthen capillaries, optimize blood viscosity and relieve inflammation.

Best Diuretic Herbs

And, of course, diuretic herbs. The list of them is quite long. All are effective in treating:

• Rose hip. It is very useful for normalizing the functioning of the immune system, has a mild diuretic effect and strengthens the body. Kidneys, heart, blood vessels - rose hips effectively restore their functionality. To prepare a decoction, 1.5 - 2 tablespoons of the herb are mixed with 410 milliliters of hot water. It is advisable to place the resulting liquid in a thermal mug so that it does not lose its healing properties.
• Chamomile. This herb has a very wide range of actions: it disinfects, soothes, prevents inflammation and causes a diuretic effect. Chamomile decoction is very popular and is considered one of the most proven. Taking it helps relieve insomnia, anxiety, kidney inflammation and edema.
• Nettle. It thins, strengthens, and is an excellent diuretic. Nettle is most compatible with other remedies, so it is often used as one of the components of herbal preparations. It acts very gently and gradually.

To make a decoction, you need to grind nettle leaves together with birch, thorn berries and elderflowers. Pour one tablespoon of the mixture into 220 milliliters of hot water and leave for 15 minutes. After this, strain and drink in the morning before your main meal.

• Bearberry. This plant is also a diuretic, but a potent one. If you want to get rid of swelling caused by pregnancy or as a result of bladder problems, this remedy will be ideal for you. It is necessary to take a glass of decoction made from 1 tablespoon of bearberry and 210 milliliters of water once a day.
• Milk thistle. The diuretic does not have a powerful effect on the genitourinary canal and is effective for a short time, which is often sufficient. The herb can be taken literally every hour. Milk thistle is the most effective remedy in the treatment of urinary tract diseases. The reason is the plant’s ability to remove toxins from the body, relieve spasms and fight inflammatory processes.

Interesting fact. Rosehip is an incredibly healthy plant that contains a large amount of various vitamins (for example, C) and is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. It is able to nourish the body, cleanse it and remove toxins. Very tasty drinks and herbal medicines, such as Kholosas, are made from rose hips.

How to relieve leg swelling caused by heat

The best medicine in this case is gravity. Arriving home and throwing away the shoes that have become a vice, it is enough to lie down and place your feet higher (at a minimum - on several pillows, at a maximum - against the wall).

When it becomes easier to move, you need to take a shower. Ideally, a contrasting one that trains blood vessels, but you can limit yourself to just cool. In this case, you should direct the pressure to the feet: such a hydromassage will restore blood circulation.

You can disperse the fluid with light exercises: pulling the toe towards you and away from you, rotating your feet, squatting. But if you don’t have the strength to do this, and your legs hurt, it’s better not to torture them.

Foot baths are also useful. Even plain water will provide relief, but you can enhance the effects with additives. This could be sea salt or herbal infusions. Compresses made from cabbage leaves or bandages soaked in a decoction of birch leaves improve the condition of the limbs.

How to get rid of swelling

There are several ways to treat swelling. In addition to herbs and decoctions, there are at least two more effective methods:

• Exclusion from the diet of salt, sweets, coffee and smoked products. They all aggravate the situation and contribute to increased swelling. It is necessary to give preference to fruits, vegetables, dairy products and dietary poultry meat.
• Water baths. A completely elementary way to prevent edema - you just need to take a contrast shower or add salt to the water. This will have a positive effect on getting rid of the problem as quickly as possible.

Treatment of leg swelling due to heart or kidney failure

Patients with heart or kidney failure should be under the supervision of a physician. In acute attacks, resuscitation is required. If the disease takes a chronic form, swelling is removed as it appears with the help of diuretics and nutritional correction. Medicines should:

• stabilize blood pressure;
• remove excess sodium from the body;
• prevent protein loss;
• normalize blood flow speed.

When using diuretics (diuretics), it is important not to exceed the permissible dosage. Otherwise, there is a risk of getting the opposite effect in the form of drug-induced edema during withdrawal. They are caused by the kidneys’ reaction to a sudden change in the mode of fluid excretion.

Impact on the body

Diuretics, from which healing herbal tea is brewed, have a diuretic effect on the body: they remove excess fluid accumulated in the soft tissues of the body. This natural remedy also helps people suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system, stagnation of urine in the body, and problems of the genitourinary system.

Interesting fact. Many drugs, due to their synthetic nature, have a detrimental effect on the liver. Diuretic herbs that a person takes for swelling of the legs do not cause any harm to it. In this regard, they are often prescribed to children, pregnant women and elderly people.

Relieving swelling during pregnancy

In the body of a woman carrying a fetus, the concentration of the hormone progesterone increases. It is one of the causes of edema during pregnancy. In no case should it be reduced, because it is this that ensures the attachment of the embryo.

There is no need to fight physiological swelling. The main thing is to prevent it from getting worse. To alleviate the symptoms, you can carry out the mentioned water procedures and adhere to a healthy lifestyle (moderate activity, water consumption within the daily norm, adjusted for restrictions imposed by pregnancy, rest on your side).

The pathological nature of edema can only be determined by a doctor based on test results (in particular, protein in the urine). Having discovered the cause, he will prescribe treatment. It is prohibited to take any medications on your own.

Other anti-edema remedies

To take all medications for edema, you must consult a doctor. You need to make sure that the composition does not contain parabens, fragrances, dyes, animal or mineral fats. Such substances can accumulate and cause harm to the body. Problem areas with swelling should be treated twice a day, in the evening two hours before bedtime. Cleanse facial skin, remove makeup. Do not stretch the skin, rub the eyelids, put pressure on the eye area, or apply medications to the edge of the eyelid.

Ointments and gels

Blepharogel is the most popular.
It contains hyaluronic acid and aloe juice, glycerin. These substances help remove puffiness, fine wrinkles, moisturize the skin, and heal small wounds. Heparin ointment, in addition to its main use, is used by cosmetologists. The components included in its composition promote the resorption of bruises and bruises under the eyes, and reduce wrinkles.

Traumeel is a homeopathic ointment. Chamomile, belladonna, arnica, witch hazel, which are part of it, have a regenerating and calming effect

Troxevasin - gel. Can be used as a remedy against edema, promotes the resorption of hematomas.

Troxerutin. Decongestant, anti-inflammatory, venotonic, angioprotective and antioxidant agent.

Blefarogel

Heparin ointment

Traumeel

Troxevasin

Troxerutin

Cosmetical tools

The line of cosmetics for bags and puffiness under the eyes is presented in the form of firming or moisturizing creams that are applied under basic makeup. There are also cooling ointments and creams for the delicate area around the eyes. Before the first use of care products, it is necessary to conduct a test to exclude the occurrence of allergic reactions. You need to apply a small amount of cream or ointment to your wrist and observe for half an hour. The lack of reaction makes it possible to use the care product. If allergies occur, it should not be used.

Cosmetic masks help eliminate swelling. You can choose one that suits you, both in a pharmacy and in a chain of stores. Massaging the area around the eyes and the entire face will help cope with swelling. It improves skin elasticity, reduces muscle tension, promotes tissue regeneration and activation of cellular metabolism, and eliminates swelling of the eyelids. Massage should be carried out after cleansing the facial skin with special products. After the procedure, apply cream or use a mask.

Prevention

Swelling cannot always be prevented, since it can occur under the influence of uncontrollable factors. There is no way to prevent a bruise or insect bite. But in general, maintaining hydrobalance in the body is easy:

• Observe the drinking regime: fully quench your thirst, but do not drink more than you should.
• Stick to a diet during the hot season: minimize the consumption of salty and spicy foods, eat more fruits, drink tea with lemon instead of coffee.
• Arrange water treatments: contrast showers, foot baths.
• Move more: walking, swimming, aerobics do not allow fluid to stagnate.

In summer, you should avoid tight, high-heeled shoes. It is useful to periodically place your feet on an elevation so that fluid concentrated in the lower part of the body drains. There is no need to abuse medications. Urinary and antihypertensive drugs should be prescribed by a doctor. Any diseases that have a similar symptom must be treated in a timely manner.

Tokareva Lyudmila Georgievna, therapist, medical offices 36.6.

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS, BEFORE USE YOU MUST CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST