Water retention, also commonly referred to as edema, is a condition where too much fluid get pulled and trapped into your body tissue, resulting in the look and feel of swelling. Although water retention can happen in any part of your body, it is most noticeable when it occurs in areas like your feet, hands ankles and legs. When you're dealing with fluid retention, you can go about reducing the swelling in several different ways.
Cut your salt intake to a level at least below the 2,300 mg of sodium per day recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Excess salt in your body attracts and holds water, increasing problems with fluid retention as well as problems with blood pressure, as salt attracts excess water into the bloodstream.
Try an herbal remedy to help increase your water excretion. The University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences recommends herbs that are believed to be natural diuretics such as rosemary, juniper, goldenrod, dandelion leaf, parsley and buchu.
Massage the swollen area firmly but gently in a direction towards your heart. These movement can help encourage the draining of water from the affected tissue.
Strive to include at at least 8 to 9 cups of water eight times a day into your diet. When you stay hydrated, you reduce your risks for your body continuing to hold onto water, suggests the State Government of Victoria's Better Health Channel.
Talk to your doctor about diuretic medications. Diuretics increase the amount of both water and sodium your kidneys output, helping eliminate excess water that is contributing to fluid retention.
Talk to your doctor before trying any alternative herbal remedies for your water retention to ensure that the herb is appropriate and safe for your individual use.