Herbal Diuretics
Safe, Natural Alternatives to the Water Pill
Water pills have been used to help treat hypertension, kidney disease, urinary tract infections, drug overdose, edema, excess fluid retention, and to promote urination. Herbal diuretics can be used in place of, or in conjunction with, prescription diuretics without many side effects. However, they must be used properly and with the supervision of a qualified medical or herbal practitioner.
What are Herbal Diuretics?
Herbal diuretics are herbs that decrease water retention in the body by clearing excess liquid stored in tissue. This process is known as “forced diuresis,” or enhanced formation of urine stimulated by diuretic substances. Herbal diuretics are sometimes referred to as “aquaretics” because they cause “aquaresis,” increased urination without depleting electrolytes. Many prescription drugs are known to strip the body of these essential ions, which is why they are sometimes categorized separately.
Some of the most commonly used (and safest) herbal diuretics include:
- Chicory
- Dandelion
- Fennel
- Golden seal
- Hops
- Marshmallow
- Mint
- Nettle
- Parsley
- Saffron
- Sage
- Sassafras
- Saw palmetto berries
- Skullcap
- Spearmint
- St. John’s wort
- Strawberry leaves
- Uva-Ursi
- Wintergreen
- Yarrow
These herbal diuretics have all been used safely within traditional American folk medicine for centuries. However, it’s always recommended that you consult a qualified herbal or medical practitioner before consuming any new herbal remedy.
How Do I Use Herbal Diuretics?
Most herbal diuretics can be consumed in the form of a tea, extract, or capsule. Others can be eaten raw or added to salads, such as dandelion, chicory, mint, sage, fennel, and parsley. To make an herbal diuretic tea, combine one teaspoon of the dried herb of choice with one cup of boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for 10-15 minutes, and then strain and sweeten with honey.
In most cases, 1-4 cups per day is the recommended diuretic tea dosage, while 1-3 capsules per day is standard for powdered herbs. However, it’s important to understand the properties of the individual herb, and to learn which way its best consumed. Most of the herbs listed above are safe when taken in tea or capsule form, but when in doubt, consult an herbal practitioner.
What Are the Side Effects of Herbal Diuretics?
The side effects of herbal diuretics are nearly non-existent in comparison to their prescription counterparts. Particular herbs may have their own side effects, but in general, they are safe if taken in moderation. Over-using or abusing herbal diuretics can lead to dehydration or a reduction in blood volume, so it’s important to never take a larger dosage than recommended by your physician. In rare cases, some herbs may cause nausea or diarrhea. If these symptoms are experienced, discontinue use immediately.
References:
Kloss, Jethro. Back to Eden. Loma Linda: Back to Eden Publishing Co, 1992. Print.
Dandelion is a gentle herbal diuretic.
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