What are Some Natural Diuretics?
For those people who want to avoid taking prescribed diuretics from their doctor, there are numerous natural diuretics. These are available to help promote urination in those suffering from conditions that are causing them to retain water. Natural diuretics can be found in the form of dietary supplements, drinks or food. It is important that natural diuretics are used with care and caution, as they can lead to potassium deficiency or dehydration if abused.
Those people who prefer to use herbal remedies in the form of capsules or extracts should look for natural diuretics that are contained in a dietary supplement. Many available supplements have only one ingredient; however, some contain multiple ingredients that function as a natural diuretic. Dandelion, ginger, juniper, nettle, fennel and linden are all herbs that can be purchased in supplement form.
Although dietary capsules and extracts are convenient, many people prefer to make natural diuretics part of their diet. Incorporating natural diuretics into snacks and meals gives greater variety to how one can obtain a diuretic. Depending on whether someone is concerned about increasing urine output and flushing toxins from their body will determine which foods they include in their diet. The most common foods that work as natural diuretics are watermelon, cucumbers, watercress, artichokes, beets, oats and tomatoes. Other foods that help promote waste in general are asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots and lettuce.
Many of the herbs that can be purchased in supplement form may also be eaten in the diet. Ginger and fennel are the most readily available herbs for cooking. Dandelion greens may also supply a natural diuretic when eaten in salad form.
In addition to supplements, herbs and foods, natural diuretics may be enjoyed in beverages as well. Green tea is the most common because the Chinese have been using it for centuries. Cranberry juice and apple cider vinegar are two other liquids that act as a natural diuretic. Because most people don’t enjoy drinking vinegar, a great way to utilize apple cider vinegar is in salad dressing.
It is important to remember that the human body retains water for many very serious reasons. The causes of water retention can include, but are not limited to, high blood pressure, heart-disease, pregnancy and obesity. Natural diuretics have a modest diuretic effect in comparison to prescribed treatments, and should never self diagnose water-retention and take a natural diuretic. Natural diuretics should only be used in conjunction with conventional medicine after a doctor has been consulted.
Written by Jessica Hobby
