Do your legs, ankles or feet feel swollen? Water retention is a fairly common condition, but it can be frustrating. Water levels in the body are regulated by the circulatory and lymphatic systems. From time to time, fluid can build up in the tissues, causing swelling.
By making a few simple lifestyle changes, you can help prevent water retention from becoming a regular problem. And adding a few natural remedies can help alleviate your symptoms very quickly.
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What Causes Water Retention?
There are certain factors and situations that can influence the accumulation of fluid in our body, some may be the physical conditions of each individual, others their bad habits.
1. Salt
One of the main causes of water retention is in your diet. The more salt you consume, the more water your body can retain. Reducing the amount of salt in your diet can stop bloating to a great extent.
2. Hormonal levels
High levels of hormones, such as insulin, cortisone, estrogen, and progesterone, can cause your body to stay with excess water. These hormones affect sodium levels in the body and can end up causing water retention. Certain medications can also have this effect. For this reason, it is very important to improve hormonal levels, especially in women.
3. Inactivity
People who spend a lot of time in hospital beds or wheelchairs often experience water retention. Without regular movement, it becomes more difficult for the lymphatic system to drain excess fluid from your tissues. This can cause a blockage in your lymphatic system, leading to swelling. To reduce water retention, it’s essential that you be able to get moving.
Oils to reduce water retention
Here are four essential oils that reduce water retention and leg swelling.
1. Grapefruit oil
Grapefruit oil is a natural diuretic. It works to cleanse the body, reduce inflammation, and release fluids that the body may have. Grapefruit oil also increases blood circulation, which helps relieve swelling and pain in swollen legs and ankles. Thanks to the terpenes in grapefruit and other citrus oils, grapefruit essential oil is a natural anti-inflammatory.
To use: Combine 3 drops of grapefruit oil with 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and then massage the mixture into the swollen area 2-3 times a day.
2. Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil has been shown to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with fluid retention. It has the power to activate serotonin receptors in the body to promote relaxation, lower blood pressure, and decrease inflammatory response reactions.
How to use it: Spread eucalyptus oil at home or combine 3 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and massage the mixture onto the swollen area.
3. Lavender oil
The lavender oil is known for its powerful benefits. It can provide relief from mood swings, sleep problems, and headaches, as well as reduce inflammation. It can be applied topically, without carrier oil.
How to use: Add 2-3 drops of lavender oil to the affected area, or add 5-7 drops of lavender oil in the shower to reduce inflammation and pain, while promoting relaxation.
4. Fennel Oil
The fennel oil is rich in vitamins and nutrients that help maintain the immune system. It works to naturally detoxify the body of toxins that cause inflammation and to promote the release of fluids that are built into the body’s tissues.
How to use it: Add 1-2 drops of fennel oil to a glass of hot water or chamomile tea and drink, or combine 4-5 drops of fennel oil to 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil and rub the mixture on the affected area.