Edema is the name for swelling that occurs all over the body, but it is especially common in the ankles and feet. There are many causes for the problem, from pregnancy to high blood pressure. The reason for the swelling is the difficulty that your body is having fighting gravity, making it hard to move the fluids and blood back up your legs.
Whatever the underlying cause of the swelling and discomfort may be, here are some natural remedies for you to try at home that will alleviate the symptoms while you are getting the root cause sorted out. Follow our tips for reducing swelling in the feet!
Natural Remedies for Reducing Swelling in the Feet
Supplement with magnesium:
One contributing factor to edema can be a diet deficient in magnesium. If you choose to try giving supplementation a try it would be a good idea to speak to your physician or pharmacist to find out what dosage they would recommend! It’s always a smart & recommended choice to consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
Drinking plenty of water is one of many great natural remedies for reducing swelling in the feet. (Wikimedia Commons)
Drink plenty of water:
Too much salt in the diet is another possible cause of edema. One of the quickest and easiest ways to dilute the salt running through your system is by increasing your intake of fluids. For flushing out the system, try to drink at least 8 glasses of daily. If you are the type who gets bored with drinking tasteless water, add several slices of both lemon and cucumber into the glass. Along with having a great taste, you will get some extra relief from the swelling due to the anti-inflammatory properties that both these fruits are known to have.
Get grapefruit essential oil:
A few drops of grapefruit essential oil added into a bucket of warm water for soaking your feet, or into a soothing bath smells wonderful and helps with the swelling. Not everyone enjoys taking a long, relaxing soak, so consider giving yourself a massage instead. Take a small amount of a carrier oil and mix in several drops of the essential oil. Rub your feet, legs, and ankles with the pressure going upwards.
Try a tonic water soak:
Tonic water is not just strictly used as a bar mix! When used cold (if you can manage) or at room temperature it can also relieve edema. It is the combination of bubbles and quinine which work to diminish the inflammation.
If you have any questions about the swelling or edema of your feet, please don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Dr. Ian S. Goldbaum is a Podiatric Physician and Surgeon serving patients in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Boynton Beach.
Do you have questions or concerns?
Call or email today for immediate answers to your questions.
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16244 S. Military Trail #290, Delray Beach, FL 33445
561-499-0033
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8198 Jog Road #100, Boynton Beach, FL 33472
561-499-0033
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