7 Natural Diuretics You Must Include In Your Diet

Instead of using drugs that help us stimulate kidney function, we can take advantage of natural diuretics. Thus, we make sure to avoid possible side effects.

Diuretics help your body shed excess fluid, mainly water and sodium. Most stimulate the kidneys to excrete more sodium in the urine.

When diuretics work on sodium, they force your body to expel water. If your body is retaining fluids, you may be suffering from other illnesses and retention is one of the symptoms.

It could be a malfunction of the thyroid, high blood pressure, cirrhosis, kidney dysfunction or stones, edema, polycystic ovarian syndrome or diabetes. .

Discover the 7 natural diuretics you need to incorporate into your diet.

1. Dandelion among natural diuretics 

It is a common wild plant in our gardens, and that many people consider to be a weed.

Several studies have shown that one of the compounds in dandelion increases the activity of the kidneys and the frequency with which we urinate.

Both its green leaves and its stems and roots are diuretic. In addition to helping stabilize sugar levels, dandelion encourages detoxification of the colon and liver. 

2. Hawthorn

Hawthorn is a member of the Rosaceae family, and even if you don’t believe it, it’s a potent diuretic.

It has the power to reduce fluid buildup, which means it can help improve symptoms of congestive heart failure. 

The nutrients in this plant have also been shown to increase the frequency and influx of urination.

On the other hand, hawthorn berries are rich in vitamin C, B and minerals. In addition to being diuretic, they can help:

• Treat kidney problems.
• Pump blood more vigorously through the heart.
• Reduce fever.

3. Horsetail

In a 2014 study, horsetail was shown to have the same results as those obtained with other prescribed diuretics, but with fewer side effects.

Horsetail can be a good alternative to the usual medicines, especially if you suffer from side effects.

• Its effect can be so powerful that it is not recommended in pregnancy. 
• If you suffer from uric acid retention, it could be of great help to you.
• Patients with gout are also avid consumers of horsetail.

4. Juniper in the list of natural diuretics

The juniper plant has been used as a natural diuretic since the Middle Ages.

Although modern studies that have demonstrated its benefits are rare, it has been shown to have a significant effect on increasing urine volume in animals.

Like many natural diuretics, it does not appear to lower potassium levels like some drugs do.

It is advisable to consume its berries in cases of cystitis for example. Among the qualities of this plant, we find anti-rheumatic benefits and also its contribution to the elimination of toxins.

5. Green tea and black tea

Every time you enjoy a hot cup of tea, you are allowing excess fluids to drain out of your body. Whether it is black tea or green tea, they have both demonstrated their potent diuretic abilities.

Thanks to their high caffeine content, they help the body to produce more urine, reducing the amount of water, especially in the blood, which also lowers blood pressure. 

6. Parsley

Although parsley is used more as a seasoning, it can be very useful for people who have problems with the consumption of diuretic drugs that can be found in pharmacies.

Parsley is one of the most recommended natural diuretics to help us increase urine volume.

To enjoy its benefits, it can be prepared as an infusion.

Ingredients

• 1 handful of parsley
• 1 glass of water (200 ml)

Preparation

• Boil a handful of fresh parsley for 10 minutes. Let cool and reserve the liquid in the refrigerator.
• Consume a glass of this infusion every day for a week, for best results.

7. The hibiscus or the Jamaican flower

Hibiscus is a plant of the Malvaceae family, large flowers often reddish in color, also known as the “Jamaican flower”, although there are several varieties of different colors. 

Several studies have reported that the Jamaican flower increases kidney filtration, reduces swelling and fights water retention through its diuretic effects. 

Tips to increase the effectiveness of these natural diuretics

In addition to these natural diuretics, you can reduce your sodium intake and exercise more. This helps reduce the build-up of fluids.

Eating more fruits and vegetables in general increases the diuretic effect in the body.

Among the best you will find:

• The watermelon
• Grapes
• Berries
• The celery
• Asparagus
• Onion
• Garlic
• Peppers

Before considering any change, including medication or treatment, talk to your doctor. A drastic change can be harmful to your health.