Diuretics, as substances that play a crucial role in maintaining our body’s fluid balance, are critical to our health and wellness. They assist in removing excess fluid, primarily water and sodium, from the body, a function that becomes particularly important when one experiences swollen arms, legs, or ankles. These symptoms may indicate more water and salt accumulation than usual, leading to discomfort. Understanding that about 60% of the body is composed of water and that maintaining a healthy balance of fluids is not just important but crucial for our overall health and regular bodily functions empowers us to take control of our health. This understanding, as highlighted in this study (Shaheen et al., 2018), gives us a sense of control over our well-being.
For individuals with conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney dysfunction, the body’s fluid balance can be disrupted, posing potential dangers. In such cases, the use of diuretics as part of their treatment becomes not just a choice but a necessity. Diuretics eliminate excess bodily fluids, increasing urine production (Sawka & Montain, 2000). Without diuretics, the strain of extra water on the organs, potential electrolyte imbalances, and the risk of life-threatening situations (Chiorescu et al., 2022) become urgent concerns. Diuretics are crucial in addressing these dangers, and understanding their importance in managing these health conditions is critical to feeling informed and in control.
Here are Eight Natural Diuretics and the Evidence that supports Them.
What is a natural diuretic? Natural diuretics are powerful herbs, supplements, and foods that can copy the effects of diuretics to increase urine volume and flush out extra fluids. In addition to preventing fluid buildup, many natural diuretics also provide a range of health benefits to optimize overall health.
Various natural diuretics are available, from food to herbs to supplements. You can significantly impact your health by replacing your over-the-counter diuretic with these natural options. Let’s explore eight of these natural diuretics and their benefits.
1. Watermelon
Watermelon is a widely recognized diuretic. Watermelon is rich in various essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The vibrant ruby-red colour of watermelon is attributed to the powerful antioxidant lycopene, as identified by the USDA. Each bite of watermelon is dense with water, contributing to its effectiveness as a diuretic. Watermelon is known for being water-saturated, which may contribute to its diuretic properties. According to (Siddiqui et al., 2018) animal study, watermelon might promote the elimination of sodium and chloride through urine, effectively removing excess water from the body. This suggests that watermelon could help regulate water balance in the body.
2. Parsley
The same parsley commonly used as a garnish has been found to have potential benefits for individuals having difficulty tolerating diuretic drugs. (Kreydiyyeh & Usta, 2002), Studies demonstrated that parsley might aid in increasing urinary volume, and more recent research has further confirmed its diuretic properties.
3. Juniper berry
Juniper berries have a long history of traditional use due to their various medicinal properties. They have been utilized as diuretics, anti-arthritis agents, anti-diabetic remedies, and antiseptics. When brewed into tea, juniper berries aid in urinary tract problems by promoting urine flow as a diuretic. Furthermore, juniper berries are believed to have clearing effects on the kidneys, bladder, gallbladder, and prostate. They also alleviate heartburn and soothe an upset stomach (Raina et al., 2019).
4. Cucumber
Certain vegetables can be beneficial for detoxifying the body, especially those in the Cucurbitaceae plant family. These vegetables contain cucurbitacins, which are compounds known for their ability to support digestive functions. Cucurbitacins help cleanse and protect the gastrointestinal tract and may reduce fluid retention. Cucumbers, in particular, are considered a natural diuretic, meaning they can promote increased urine production, which can assist in eliminating toxins and waste from the body. If you experience symptoms like bloating, indigestion, constipation, or water retention, incorporating cucumber water into your diet may relieve you (Elicia et al., 2021).
5. Asparagus
Studies have found that incorporating asparagus into your diet can benefit the body. Asparagus acts as a natural diuretic, removing excess salt and fluids from the body. This property is particularly advantageous for individuals with edema and high blood pressure. Moreover, asparagus can help flush out toxins from the kidneys and even aid in preventing kidney stones.
6. Coffee
A 2017 study by (Seal et al., 2017) found that caffeine mimics the effects of diuretic medications by reducing sodium reabsorption in the kidneys. Additionally, a 2020 study by (Alwis et al., 2020) suggested that caffeine may stimulate contractions in the smooth muscle of the urinary tract and activate the central nervous system, potentially leading to diuresis.
7. Tea
When you savour a steaming cup of tea, you might be aiding your body in eliminating excessive fluids. Research suggests that both green and black teas have the potential to act as natural diuretics, promoting fluid excretion from the body (Chakraborty et al., 2014). A review published in Pharmaceuticals in 2022 suggested that hibiscus tea may benefit from excreting fluids and reducing blood pressure. Additionally, a 2019 study involving adults diagnosed with hypertension found that participants who were instructed to consume two cups of hibiscus tea daily over 30 days experienced a notable decrease in their blood pressure values (Ghiasi et al., 2019). The study indicated that hibiscus may help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, aiding in sodium balance, and promoting diuresis (Montalvo-González et al., 2022).
8. Coconut water
Coconut water has numerous health benefits. It is a natural energy source that provides essential electrolytes to prevent dehydration. A recent animal study conducted in 2022 and published in Frontiers in Nutrition (Wei et al., 2022) found that coconut water has diuretic effects. Additionally, coconut water was found to suppress hormones regulated by the renin-angiotensin system, which plays a significant role in maintaining the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. This could lead to increased urine production, known as diuresis.
What Role do Diuretics Play in Managing Health Issues?
Diuretics, also known as water pills, help the body reduce fluid retention. They work by increasing the production of urine, which allows the kidneys to remove excess salt and water from the body. As a result, the amount of fluid circulating through the veins and arteries decreases, which can help with conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema.
Considering a Natural Diuretic Supplement
1. Dandelion
Dandelion has traditionally been used as a diuretic to increase urine and eliminate excess fluid from the body. It is often used for conditions where a diuretic could be beneficial, such as liver problems and high blood pressure. Initial human studies suggest that the ethanolic extract of dandelion shows potential as a diuretic. However, further research is necessary to determine its effectiveness in promoting diuresis in human subjects (Clare et al., 2009).
2. Hawthorn
Historically, the hawthorn has been widely recognized and employed for its natural diuretic properties. This traditional use, aimed at helping the body eliminate excess water and salt by increasing urine production, has long been a testament to its effectiveness in supporting kidney and bladder health. Additionally, hawthorn has been known to alleviate stomach discomfort, increase appetite, and enhance blood circulation (Rababa’h et al., 2020).
Conclusion
Diuretics, also known as water pills, are medications designed to reduce fluid retention in the body. These medications, foods, drinks, and herbs work by aiding the kidneys in removing salt and water from the urine and decreasing the amount of fluid circulating through the veins and arteries. By reducing this fluid volume, diuretics effectively lower blood pressure, making them a standard and effective treatment for hypertension. Several studies have demonstrated the diuretic effects of certain fruits and vegetables on the human body. For instance, watermelon and juniper berries, cucumbers, and asparagus are known to have diuretic properties.
Additionally, drinks such as coconut water, coffee, and both green and black tea have also been shown to have diuretic effects. These natural diuretics can promote excess water and sodium excretion from the body, potentially benefiting individuals with certain medical conditions or those looking to manage water retention. Please be aware of diuretics’ severe potential side effects, including low potassium levels (unless you take a potassium-sparing diuretic), muscle cramps, and heart palpitations. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider right away for assistance.
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Siddiqui, W., Shahzad, M., Shabbir, A., & Ahmad, A. (2018). Evaluation of anti-urolithiatic and diuretic activities of watermelon (citrullus lanatus) using in vivo and in vitro experiments. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 97, 1212–1221. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2017.10.162Wei, J., Zhao, M., Meng, K., Xia, G., Pan, Y., Li, C., & Zhang, W. (2022). The diuretic effects of coconut water by suppressing aquaporin and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system in saline-loaded rats. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.930506 Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
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