Water Retention: Most Effective Supplements

Water retention, or edema, is characterized by an excessive accumulation of fluid in the body tissues, particularly in the lower limbs, abdomen, or face. It can occur in the interstitial spaces (around the cells) or in the body cavities (in the abdomen). Normally, fluid balance is maintained through a complex system involving blood vessels, the lymphatic system, and the kidneys, but this balance can be disrupted by various factors.

Main Causes

The causes of water retention are multiple, including: 2 Kidney Dysfunction: Inability to properly excrete excess sodium and water. 22 Heart Failure: Reduction in the heart's pumping efficiency, leading to fluid accumulation. 22 Liver Diseases: Such as cirrhosis, causing fluid buildup in the abdomen. 22 Hormonal Imbalances: Involving aldosterone or vasopressin, which regulate sodium and water retention, but also other hormones depending on specific contexts like pregnancy or the menstrual cycle. For example, fluctuations of estrogens and progesterone during the menstrual cycle increase capillary permeability and modify sodium metabolism. 22 Pregnancy: Compression of abdominal veins can lead to edema. 22 Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged standing: Favoring accumulation in the legs.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of water retention: 22 Visible swelling (ankles, legs, abdomen, face). 22 Feeling of heaviness or tightness. 22 Decreased joint mobility. 22 Rapid and unexplained weight gain. 22 In severe cases, shortness of breath or chest discomfort.

Risk Factors

22 Diets high in sodium. 22 Sedentary lifestyle or a long stay in the same position. 22 Excessive alcohol consumption. 22 Medications such as corticosteroids, contraceptives, or antihypertensives.

Natural Solutions

Phytotherapy offers a range of plants with gentle but effective actions to manage water retention. They promote the elimination of excess fluid while supporting better blood and lymphatic circulation. For example, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is renowned for its diuretic properties, which stimulate the elimination of water and sodium. Horsetail (Equisetum arvense), in addition to draining liquids, provides essential minerals to maintain fluid balance. Orthosiphon, enhances renal function and supports the elimination of toxins. Other plants, like butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus), are particularly effective in reducing edema by stimulating venous circulation. Finally, red vine (Vitis vinifera) strengthens the venous walls, thus limiting the swelling associated with chronic venous insufficiency. These plants act through various complementary mechanisms. Their diuretic effect promotes better renal filtration, allowing the elimination of retained water. They also improve blood circulation, reducing capillary leaks responsible for swelling. Furthermore, their anti-inflammatory properties soothe areas affected by edema, complemented by antioxidant properties that protect tissues from damage related to oxidative stress.