10 Best Herbal Teas For Fluid Retention

Herbal teas for fluid retention are natural remedies that help alleviate the discomfort of excess fluid in the body.

They work by promoting urination, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation, thereby relieving bloating and swelling. Examples include dandelion tea, which supports liver function, and peppermint tea, which aids digestion.

Regular consumption of these teas can improve overall well-being, allowing individuals to enjoy activities and daily life without the discomfort of fluid retention.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for fluid retention, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Arctostaphylos uva ursi

Arctostaphylos uva ursi, also known as bearberry, teas helps with fluid retention because it contains arbutin, a compound that inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys.

This process reduces the amount of fluid retained in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms of water retention and swelling. Additionally, bearberry's diuretic properties help increase urine production, promoting the removal of excess fluids from the body.

This natural diuretic effect makes bearberry tea a popular remedy for managing fluid retention.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctostaphylos uva ursi teas that help with fluid retention.

• Ursolic acid: A triterpene compound that helps reduce water retention by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium ions in the kidneys, which in turn reduces fluid accumulation in the body.
• Gallic acid: A phenolic acid that has a diuretic effect by stimulating the kidneys to excrete excess fluids and electrolytes, thereby reducing fluid retention.
• Arbutin: A glycosidic alkaloid that acts as a mild diuretic by increasing urine production and reducing the reabsorption of water and electrolytes in the kidneys.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of bearberry used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their astringent properties, which help reduce fluid retention in the body.
• Barks: The barks of Arctostaphylos uva ursi contain tannins, which aid in reducing fluid retention and alleviating related issues.
• Fruits: The fruits of the plant are used in teas to help manage fluid retention due to their diuretic properties, promoting urine production and reducing water retention.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bearberry for fluid retention.

1. Harvest the arctostaphylos uva ursi leaves in late summer when they are fully ripe and dry.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried arctostaphylos uva ursi leaves per 8 ounces of boiling water.
4. Steep the dried leaves in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the herbal properties.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the arctostaphylos uva ursi tea.

2. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with fluid retention because it increases urine production by stimulating the kidneys to release excess fluids from the body.

The roots and leaves of the plant are rich in diuretic properties, which help to reduce water retention and swelling in the body.

Additionally, dandelion tea has a natural laxative effect, promoting the elimination of waste products and toxins, further contributing to its diuretic properties and its ability to alleviate fluid retention.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with fluid retention.

• Taraxasterol: It acts as a natural diuretic, helping the body to remove excess fluids and electrolytes, which reduces fluid retention.
• Inulin: It helps to lower blood pressure and improve kidney function, which enables the kidneys to more efficiently remove excess fluids from the body.
• Phenolic acids: They help to reduce blood pressure, improve blood vessel function, and promote the removal of excess fluids from the body through the urine.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Leaves: The leaves are used for their diuretic properties, helping to increase urine production and reduce fluid retention.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their ability to stimulate kidney function and promote urine production, alleviating fluid retention.
• Roots: The roots are used for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and alleviate fluid retention.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for fluid retention.

1. Gather fresh dandelion roots and leaves in the morning after dew has dried.
2. Chop 1 ounce of dried dandelion roots into small pieces for tea.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 1 quart of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid and discard the solids after the steeping time has passed.
5. Drink 1 to 2 cups of the tea per day to aid in digestion and detoxification.

3. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, teas helps with fluid retention because of its unique ability to improve blood circulation and enhance the body's natural drainage system.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba extract help to relax blood vessels, allowing for better fluid movement and reducing swelling. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba tea's antioxidant properties help to reduce inflammation and promote overall vascular health, further contributing to its benefits in alleviating fluid retention.

This results in a reduction of bloating and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with fluid retention.

• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and alleviate fluid retention by improving blood vessel function and reducing fluid accumulation in tissues.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce fluid retention by improving blood flow, reducing swelling, and protecting against oxidative stress that may contribute to fluid accumulation.
• Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties, which can help alleviate fluid retention by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting the removal of excess fluids from the body.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba for teas, as they are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids that help reduce fluid retention.
• Buds: The buds are used to make teas due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which aid in reducing fluid retention and inflammation.
• Roots: The roots are also used to make teas, as they contain compounds that help regulate fluid balance and reduce swelling in the body.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for fluid retention.

1. Measure out one teaspoon of dried ginkgo biloba leaves per 8 ounces of water.
2. Steep the ginkgo biloba leaves in hot water for 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the ginkgo biloba leaves from the liquid.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste to enhance the flavor of the tea.
5. Allow the tea to cool completely before serving and consumption.

4. Equisetum arvense

Equisetum arvense, also known as field horsetail, teas helps with fluid retention because of its diuretic properties.

The tea contains silica, which helps to improve kidney function and promote the elimination of excess fluids from the body. Additionally, field horsetail tea has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can also contribute to its ability to alleviate fluid retention.

By promoting healthy kidney function and improving circulation, field horsetail tea can help to reduce swelling and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense teas that help with fluid retention.

• Silicic acid: Helps with fluid retention by improving the structure and function of connective tissue, allowing the body to more effectively absorb and utilize water.
• Furanosesquiterpenes: Act as a natural diuretic, increasing urine production and promoting the removal of excess fluids from the body.
• Phenolic compounds: Help to reduce inflammation and improve vascular function, which can help the body to more efficiently filter and remove excess fluids.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Roots: Roots are the primary part used due to their high content of inulin and other compounds that help to reduce fluid retention.
• Stems: Stems are also used, as they contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and fluid accumulation.
• Leaves: Leaves are another part used to make teas for fluid retention, as they contain antioxidants and other compounds that help to balance the body's water levels.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for fluid retention.

1. Harvest 25g of equisetum arvense rhizomes and roots in the spring when they are most active.
2. Chop the harvested equisetum arvense into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
3. Steep 5g of chopped equisetum arvense in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
4. Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids from the tea.
5. Store the equisetum arvense tea in a cool dry place for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with fluid retention because it contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that promote diuretic activity.

These compounds help to increase urine production, reducing the amount of fluid in the body. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory properties may help to alleviate swelling and promote lymphatic drainage, further aiding in the reduction of fluid retention.

By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, English lavender tea may provide relief from swollen ankles, hands, and feet.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with fluid retention.

• Linalool: This terpene helps with fluid retention by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which in turn reduces the body's need to retain fluid.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has a diuretic effect, helping to increase urine production and reduce fluid retention in the body.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote the excretion of excess fluids in the body, thus alleviating fluid retention.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Leaves: The leaves of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make teas for fluid retention as they contain bioactive compounds with diuretic properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, helping to reduce fluid retention.
• Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia are used to make teas that help reduce fluid retention due to their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for fluid retention.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning when they are dry.
2. Rinse the harvested flowers under cool running water to remove dirt and debris immediately.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove the flowers completely.
5. Enjoy the tea hot or iced within 30 minutes of preparation to experience its full benefits.

6. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with fluid retention because of its natural diuretic properties and ability to improve circulation.

The menthol in peppermint oil helps to increase urine production, reducing excess fluids in the body. Additionally, peppermint's vasodilatory effects help to improve blood flow, reducing swelling and promoting the removal of toxins.

This helps to alleviate symptoms of fluid retention, such as bloating and weight gain, leaving the body feeling lighter and more refreshed.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with fluid retention.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with fluid retention by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function, thereby reducing water retention.
• Linalool: A terpene that helps with fluid retention by lowering cortisol levels, a hormone that can contribute to water retention, and by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Menthol: A terpene that helps with fluid retention by increasing urine production and improving blood flow, which helps to reduce water retention and alleviate symptoms of bloating.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps to stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms associated with fluid retention.
• Stems: The stems are often used in combination with leaves to create a more potent tea, as they contain menthol and other compounds that aid in digestion and fluid regulation.
• Roots: The roots are sometimes used to make teas for fluid retention, as they contain compounds like menthone that may help to reduce inflammation and improve digestion.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for fluid retention.

1. Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh or 15-20 grams of dried mentha x piperita leaves from a well-maintained garden.
2. Clean the harvested leaves thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove dirt and debris gently.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried or 2 teaspoons of fresh mentha x piperita leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the solids from the liquid completely.
5. Serve the tea hot or chilled within 30 minutes after preparation to ensure optimal flavor and aroma.

7. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with fluid retention because of its natural diuretic properties and anti-inflammatory effects.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, help to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling in the body. By increasing urine production and reducing fluid buildup, ginger teas aid in the elimination of excess fluids, making it an effective remedy for conditions like edema and bloating.

This natural remedy promotes a sense of well-being and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with fluid retention.

• Shogaols: Derived from gingerols, shogaols have been shown to have diuretic properties, which help increase urine production and alleviate fluid retention.
• Gingerols: Specifically, 6-gingerol is a major contributor to the diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger, which can help reduce fluid retention and swelling.
• Zingiberene: As a sesquiterpene, zingiberene has been found to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate fluid retention and related symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Rhyzomes: They are used due to their high content of compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties that help reduce fluid retention.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are utilized for their ability to stimulate digestion and improve circulation, which in turn helps in reducing fluid buildup in the body.
• Buds: Ginger buds are used in teas due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and improving lymphatic drainage, thus relieving fluid retention symptoms.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for fluid retention.

1. Harvest 10-15 fresh and healthy zingiber officinale roots with minimal damage to the plant's leaves.
2. Peel the roots using a vegetable peeler to expose the inner flesh of the ginger root.
3. Grate 2-3 teaspoons of the peeled ginger root using a fine grater or a box grater.
4. Steep the grated ginger root in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the flavors.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the ginger solids and discard.

8. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with fluid retention because of its ability to inhibit the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which converts cortisol into its active form.

This reduction in cortisol's potency leads to decreased aldosterone levels, resulting in less sodium retention and subsequent fluid buildup in the body.

The tea's flavonoids and glycosides may also help to relax the smooth muscles in the blood vessels, further reducing fluid accumulation and alleviating swelling associated with fluid retention.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with fluid retention.

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpene saponin helps with fluid retention by inhibiting the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which converts cortisol to its active form, thereby reducing cortisol-induced water retention.
• Licoricidin: As a component of glycyrrhizin, licoricidin contributes to fluid retention reduction by affecting cortisol levels, which in turn decreases water retention in the body.
• Licopyrone: Another component of glycyrrhizin, licopyrone also plays a role in reducing fluid retention by contributing to the overall effect of glycyrrhizin on cortisol levels and water balance in the body.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to reduce fluid retention and alleviate edema.
• Leaves: They also contain glycyrrhizin, which aids in reducing fluid retention and alleviating edema.
• Seeds: They contain saponins that have a diuretic effect, helping to reduce fluid retention.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for fluid retention.

1. Harvest 10-20 dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into fine pieces and store them in an airtight container.
3. Boil one teaspoon of chopped roots in 250ml of water for 5-7 minutes to make tea.
4. Strain the tea using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the roots.
5. Serve the tea hot or cold depending on your preference.

9. Trifolium pratense

Trifolium pratense, also known as red clover, teas helps with fluid retention because it contains isoflavones and other bioactive compounds that may help to regulate fluid balance and alleviate symptoms of edema.

The isoflavones in red clover tea may also have a mild diuretic effect, which can aid in the removal of excess fluids from the body.

Additionally, red clover's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce swelling and improve overall circulation, further contributing to its potential benefits for fluid retention.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense teas that help with fluid retention.

• Isoflavones: These compounds help alleviate fluid retention by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys, thereby promoting the excretion of excess fluids.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids exhibit diuretic properties, which help in increasing urine production and reducing fluid accumulation in the body.
• Saponins: These compounds have been shown to improve kidney function, enhance the excretion of excess fluids, and reduce inflammation, all of which contribute to alleviating fluid retention.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their diuretic properties, which help increase urine production and reduce fluid retention.
• Flowers: They are used to make teas due to their ability to stimulate lymphatic drainage, which helps reduce fluid buildup and alleviate swelling.
• Roots: They are used to make teas due to their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce fluid retention and alleviate associated discomfort.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for fluid retention.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of trifolium pratense flowers in the early morning when dew is still present on the leaves.
2. Rinse the flowers in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine the rinsed flowers with 1 quart of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup or teapot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh strainer and discard the solids after serving.

10. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with fluid retention because of its diuretic properties and ability to promote healthy circulation.

The tea's active compounds, such as flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, help to stimulate the kidneys and increase urine production, which can aid in reducing excess fluid in the body.

Additionally, yarrow's anti-inflammatory properties may help to alleviate swelling and discomfort associated with fluid retention, making it a potential natural remedy for individuals experiencing water retention issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with fluid retention.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps reduce fluid retention by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys, which in turn reduces blood pressure and edema.
• Cichoriin: A sesquiterpene lactone, cichoriin helps alleviate fluid retention by increasing urine production and promoting the excretion of excess fluids and electrolytes.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid, luteolin helps reduce fluid retention by inhibiting the activity of the renin-angiotensin system, which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance, thus preventing excess fluid accumulation in the body.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for fluid retention.

• Leaves: They are used for tea due to their diuretic properties that help in reducing water retention.
• Roots: They are utilized for tea preparation because of their ability to stimulate the kidneys and increase urine production, reducing fluid retention.
• Flowers: They are used in tea to help alleviate fluid retention due to their diuretic properties and anti-inflammatory effects.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for fluid retention.

1. Gather 1-2 cups of achillea millefolium leaves and flowers for tea making purposes carefully.
2. Dry the gathered plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried plant material for a single serving of tea.
4. Steep the dried plant material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes carefully.
5. Strain the tea mixture and discard the solids to serve the tea immediately.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for fluid retention?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with fluid retention is Dandelion root tea and Uva Ursi tea.

Dandelion root tea helps to stimulate the kidneys and improve urine production, reducing water retention. Uva Ursi tea, also known as bearberry, has natural diuretic properties that assist in flushing out excess fluids and toxins from the body.

When combined, these teas promote a balanced fluid balance, ease bloating, and soothe the digestive system, providing relief from fluid retention and its associated symptoms.