What is edema? Edema is an observable swelling in certain parts of the body. Edema most commonly occurs in the feet and legs, where it also is referred to as peripheral edema. The swelling is the result of the accumulation of excess fluid under the skin in the spaces within the tissues that are outside of the blood vessels. These spaces are known as interstitial spaces or compartments. Most of the body's fluids that are found outside of the cells are normally stored in two spaces; the blood vessels (where the fluids are called the blood volume) and the interstitial spaces (where the fluids are called the interstitial fluid). In various diseases, excess fluid can accumulate in either one or both of these compartments. The body's organs also have interstitial spaces where fluid can accumulate. For example, an accumulation of fluid in the interstitial air spaces (alveoli) in the lungs occurs in heart failure and is called pulmonary edema. In addition, excess fluid sometimes collects in what has been called the third space, which includes cavities in the abdomen (abdominal or peritoneal cavity) or in the chest (lung or pleural cavity). The term anasarca refers to the severe, widespread accumulation of fluid in the various tissues and cavities of the body. The following is a link to a site with extensive information. Click here for detailed information and conventional treatment Natural alternatives High salt intake should be avoided, as it tends to lead to water retention and may worsen edema in some people. If the edema is affecting one limb, the limb should be kept elevated whenever possible. This allows fluid to drain more effectively from the congested area. To decrease fluid buildup in the legs, people should avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time without moving. According to research studies, a formula containing butcher’s broom extract, the flavonoid hesperidin, and vitamin C, which is used in Europe to treat venous and lymphatic system disorders, was superior in reducing lymphedema. The amount of butcher’s broom extract typically used is 150 mg two or three times per day. Herbs that stimulate the kidneys were traditionally used to reduce edema. Aescin, isolated from horse chestnut seed, has been shown to effectively reduce post-surgical edema in preliminary trials. A form of aescin that is injected into the bloodstream is often used but only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Horsetail has a diuretic (urine flow increasing) action that accounts for its traditional use in reducing mild edema. The volatile oils in juniper cause an increase in urine volume and in this way can theoretically lessen edema. Cleavers is one of numerous plants considered in ancient times to act as a diuretic. It was therefore used to relieve edema and to promote urine formation during bladder infections. Quantum Greens - Contains greens that are potent detoxifiers and also minerals. Take 6 capsules with organic apple juice as a snack. Calcium Orotate - To replace minerals lost with correction of edma. Take two tablets three times daily. B-Complex - Reduces water retention. 50-100 mg of each major B Vitamin two times daily. Silica - Take as directed on label. Natural diuretic. Enzymes - Helps with digestion. Garlic - 1 clove daily. Acts as a detoxifier. Potassium Orotate - 99 mg daily. Important if taking diuretis. Helps to keep fluids on the inside of the cells. Nattokinase - May helps with heart disease. Smoother blood flow and circulation. Vitamin C - (Beet derived) - 3,000-5,000 mg daily in divided doses. Essential for adrenal function and production of adrenal hormones which are necessary for proper fluid balancd and control of edema. Vitamin E - 400 IU daily. Aids circulation. Free-Form Amino Acid Complex - Take as direct on label. Edema is sometimes caused by inadequate protein assimilation. Not enough protein has been linked to water retention. Sit with your feet up as often as possible. Exercise daily for 20-30 minutes. Diet - Avoid animal protein, beef, caffeine, dairy products (except organic eggs, small amounts of organic cottage cheese, kefir and yogurt), shellfish, fried foods, gravies, olives, pickles, salt, soy sauce, tobacco, white flour and sugar, alcohol. Eliminate stress by implementing yoga, pilates, relaxing music, meditation, positive books, gardening, etc. As you can see there are ways of treating edema. You just have to find what works for you and keep at it everyday. This will ensure your not getting it and living a heavy life. If you have had success with natural alternatives Please email me. Here is one suggestion from a subscriber: I have found that water with drops of lemon oil and orange oil drank on a daily basis controls edema. Essential oils need to be pure, for them to work correctly. Some manufactures process them with a solvent which negates the therapeutic effect. Return to main menu with 100 alternatives to drugs/scalpels edema,crhons,hormone,prozac,allergy,osteoporosis,diet,pain,cancer,colloidal siler,ginko,pauling,b6,b12,folic acid,vitamin,impotence,prescription,magnet therapy, swelling edema,crhons,hormone,prozac,allergy,osteoporosis,diet,pain,cancer,colloidal siler,ginko,pauling,b6,b12,folic acid,vitamin,impotence,prescription,magnet therapy, swelling edema,crhons,hormone,prozac,allergy,osteoporosis,diet,pain,cancer,colloidal siler,ginko,pauling,b6,b12,folic acid,vitamin,impotence,prescription,magnet therapy, swelling