BEAT Stubborn Leg Swelling Without Dangerous Diuretics

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted June 24, 2025

“I need help with edema.”

—Swollen

Hi Swollen,

When patients complain of edema—fluid retention that causes feet, ankles, and legs to swell—I explain that, while conventional medicine immediately prescribes diuretic drugs, nature offers us effective solutions we can try first.

I’ll share those in just a moment, but first, let’s take a quick look at diuretics.

Commonly called “water pills,” diuretics help your body get rid of excess water and salt by making you urinate more. They are often prescribed for conditions like edema, high blood pressure, and heart failure.

However, they can cause several problems:

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are the biggest concerns. Since you’re losing more water and minerals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium, you can end up with dangerous imbalances that affect your heart rhythm, muscle function, and blood pressure.

Blood pressure can drop too low, making you dizzy, lightheaded, or prone to fainting—especially when standing up quickly.

Kidney problems can develop if you become too dehydrated, cutting off adequate blood flow.

Blood sugar and cholesterol levels may rise with some types of diuretics, which is particularly concerning for people with diabetes.

Diuretics are powerful medications that need careful monitoring. I typically suggest trying something natural and milder first.

Here’s a roundup of what’s worked for many of my patients:

Natural diuretic herbs:

• Dandelion leaf (nature’s water pill)
• Parsley
• Hawthorn
• Nettle leaf
• Hibiscus tea

Essential minerals for fluid balance:

• Potassium counteracts sodium (sweet potatoes, avocados, bananas)
• Magnesium regulates fluid balance (nuts, seeds, poultry, fish, bananas, and avocados)
• B6 supports kidney function (poultry, fish, organ meats, bananas, and avocados)

Movement hacks:

• Gentle walking to improve circulation
• Ankle pumps while sitting
• Swimming or water exercises
• Elevating legs above heart level when resting

Circulation support:

• Horse chestnut (great for leg swelling)
• Ginkgo biloba (improves circulation)
• Grape seed extract (supports blood vessel health)

Practical tips:

• Wear compression socks during the day
• Massage legs gently toward the heart
• Stay hydrated (it may seem counterintuitive, but it helps!)
• Avoid sitting or standing in one position for too long

Remember, edema isn’t only uncomfortable—it can sometimes signal an underlying health issue. If you don’t know what’s causing your swelling, consult your doctor to rule out any serious problems.

P.S. Have a health concern that’s worrying you? CLICK HERE to submit your questions and get featured in the weekly mailbag.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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