Swollen feet or ankles are the result of fluid accumulation in the base of the legs. This swelling, commonly referred to as edema, can be attributed to long periods of sitting or standing, but puffiness can also occur during hot weather. If the person does not have edema, swollen feet or ankles may be linked to kidney problems, heart disorders, or poor blood circulation.
What Is Edema?
On its own, edema is not considered to be harmful, but it can most certainly be uncomfortable. Edema can result from diet, pregnancy, medications, or an underlying disease. Caused by fluid that is trapped in bodily tissues, edema most commonly occurs in the ankles, feet, legs, and hands. If one leg swells up or you experience partial facial swelling, you may be experiencing a blood clot and the need to address that pronto is paramount. If edema is a symptom of an underlying issue, you must address that issue to get rid of the swelling for good.
The Journal of Ethno-pharmacology recently published a study that focused on an herb that may help decrease swelling. Acting as a diuretic that works to inhibit sodium and potassium ion pumps, parsley influences the process of osmosis by way increasing urinary flow. Parsley is also loaded with potassium, and many diuretic drugs deplete the body’s potassium levels.
Benefits of Parsley
While parsley is often looked at as a simple plate garnish, it has many uses in the world of natural remedies. Scientists have found that parsley is rich in nine powerful antioxidants, folate, and vitamins A and C. Beyond its ability to reduce swelling and water weight, parsley can also balance blood sugar levels, and the inherent flavonoid (apigenin) possesses remarkable anti-cancer properties. Eugenol, a powerful oil in parsley, has strong anti-inflammatory properties that help suppress joint swelling.
Dr. John R. Christopher, a big name in the herbalist world, encourages people with edema to drink two quarts of parsley tea every day to reduce swelling and fluid retention. When you make a batch of tea, use the stems and leaves of parsley bunches. You can make a giant batch in one go or you can make one quart at a time.
Ingredients For One Quart Of Tea:
- 1 cup parsley, chopped
- 4 cups water
Instructions:
- Boil the water in a saucepan and place the parsley in an infusion basket or several fine mesh reusable tea bags.
- Once the water has finished boiling, remove it from the heat and add the infusion basket or tea bags of parsley to the water. Let this steep for five minutes.
- Remove the parsley from the water and use an optional tablespoon of raw honey to sweeten the tea.
- Drink two batches of this tea per day until the swelling goes down.
