Swollen hands and feet? Learn how to combat fluid retention with home remedies and simple daily changes.
Have you ever noticed your ankles getting thicker at the end of the day? Or your hands looking “full”?
This type of swelling is a classic sign of fluid retention , a very common problem — especially after the age of 50.
Although it is often temporary, edema can cause discomfort and, in some cases, be linked to more serious conditions.
The good news is that there are natural remedies and simple practices that can help relieve bloating safely and effectively.
What causes water retention?
Water retention , or edema, occurs when the body accumulates fluid in the tissues. Swelling can affect the feet, ankles, hands, and even the face. The main causes include:
- Excess salt in the diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Hormonal changes , such as those related to the menstrual cycle or pregnancy
- Kidney, heart or liver problems that require medical evaluation
3 homemade recipes to eliminate excess fluid
If your symptoms are mild, it’s worth trying natural preparations with diuretic action , which help the body eliminate fluids gently.
1. Radish with lemon: powerful detox
Radish stimulates the kidneys and helps balance fluids in the body.
Ingredients:
- 200 g radish
- 40 ml lemon juice
Directions:
Grate the radish and mix with lemon juice. Take 30 to 40 g of the mixture, 4 to 5 times a day, for a week.
2. Parsley tea: mild and effective diuretic action
Parsley is a natural diuretic that stimulates the kidneys and reduces swelling.
Ingredients:
- 5 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 500 ml of water
Preparation:
Boil water, add chopped parsley, and let it steep for 5 minutes. Strain and drink up to 3 cups a day (do not exceed 1 liter).
⚠️ Not recommended for pregnant women.
3. Green tea with bay leaf and cinnamon: express drainage
This mixture speeds up metabolism and helps eliminate fluids.
Ingredients:
- 800 ml of water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 tablespoons of green tea
- 1 to 2 bay leaves
Preparation:
Boil the bay leaves in 300 ml of water for up to 10 minutes. Let cool to 80°C, add the green tea and cinnamon, infuse for 3 minutes, and strain. Drink 3 times a day for a week.
Foods that help combat bloating
Some ingredients have natural diuretic properties and should be included in your routine:
-
- Cucumber : rich in water and refreshing
- Celery : helps with digestion and circulation
- Ginger : speeds up metabolism
- Carrot : regulates potassium
- Green tea : light and thermogenic
- Dandelion : powerful diuretic
- Watermelon : 92% water — perfect for hydrating and eliminating
Habits that make a difference
In addition to recipes, small adjustments to your daily routine can help prevent and alleviate water retention:
- Reduce salt : choose natural seasonings
- Get moving : walking and cycling are great allies
- Stay hydrated : drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day
- Include potassium : eat bananas, avocados, spinach and sweet potatoes
- Avoid sitting or standing still for long periods of time.
FAQ
What causes fluid retention in the hands and feet?
Excess salt, a sedentary lifestyle, heat, and hormonal changes are common causes. Circulatory or kidney problems may also be involved.
Do home remedies work for water retention?
Yes, teas and foods with diuretic effects help reduce bloating naturally.
Is fluid retention always serious?
Not always. It’s often temporary, but if it persists or worsens, you should see a doctor.
Can parsley tea be consumed daily?
Yes, in moderation. Ideally, it should be consumed for no more than 7 consecutive days and avoided during pregnancy or kidney disease.
With the right care and small changes to your routine, you can say goodbye to bloating and regain that feeling of lightness. But remember: if symptoms persist, it’s worth seeking medical advice to rule out more serious causes.