There is a lot of truth to that old saying that food is medicine. There are some everyday herbs that have very potent actions on the body. For instance, if you find yourself experiencing bloating form overeating, heat exhaustion, menstruation or menopause there are some foods that are known for helping you eliminate the excess water.
Here is a list of the top herbs that really help to reduce bloating and edema (water retention.)
Alfalfa Sprouts – Aside from being an effective diuretic, alfalfa alkalizes and detoxifies the body. It also eases inflammation and helps cranky women have balanced hormones.
Burdock – This is tough root that is best steamed or baked but it is a very effective diuretic that purifies the blood, restores liver function and helps the immune system. If you suffer from gout because of drinking or an addiction, burdock root or leaves drunk in a hot tea can really help you remedy the problem.
Chamomile Tea – if you are feeling both bloated and stressed than chamomile tea is a good remedy as it helps calm you while cleaning out your kidneys. Chamomile also helps remedy headaches and insomnia. However, if you have a known allergy to ragweed you may not want to eat this herb, as it is technically a member of the ragweed family.
Dandelion – You can do just about anything with dandelion. You can steam it, stir-fry it, put it in soup or eat it raw. It is a very effective restorative for the liver and blood purifier.
Fennel – Fennel is a mild diuretic that is very effective if you also suffer from digestion. You can drink a tea made from the seeds or leaves or eat the vegetable sliced up and then steamed, broiled or boiled.
Mustard Greens _ Mustard greens add an amazing spicy element to stir-fries and salads. Mustard greens helps relieve inflammation as well as eliminate any bloating in the body.
Turmeric – This spice gives curry its yellow color. Aside from being a mild diuretic it also protects the liver from many toxins. It also has antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
Sometimes all you have to do to affect a cure is eat the right foods. For an extra boost of effectiveness trying eating these foods raw or juiced.
Another good thing about these herbs is that they are non-toxic, meaning you can eat a lot of them and not suffer any ill effects. You can put them in salads, sandwiches or just add them to soups or any recipe that you like.