Get Rid of Swollen Hands and Feet Fast: Home Remedies for Water Retention

Why Do Ankles and Hands Swell?

Swollen ankles or hands are common, especially after a long day, and often point to water retention. This problem affects many people over 50. While it’s usually harmless, it can sometimes signal a more serious health issue. The good news is that gentle, natural methods can help your body let go of extra fluid and restore comfort.

What Causes Water Retention?

Water retention (edema) happens when excess fluid builds up in your tissues, causing swelling in your hands, feet, ankles, or even your face. Common reasons include:

Too much salt: Consuming a lot of sodium makes your body hold onto water

Not moving enough: A sedentary lifestyle slows circulation

Hormonal changes: Especially during menstruation or pregnancy

Certain health issues: Conditions affecting your kidneys, heart, or liver can play a role

Simple Home Remedies for Fluid Buildup

You can often find relief with natural remedies and a few easy changes.

Black Radish and Lemon Mix

Black radish acts as a natural diuretic, helping your body get rid of extra fluid.

Grate about 7 ounces (200 grams) of black radish and mix it with about 1.5 fluid ounces (40 milliliters) of lemon juice.

Take about 1 to 1.5 ounces (30 to 40 grams) of this mix, four to five times a day, for one week. This blend gently supports your kidneys in flushing out fluid.

Parsley Tea for Drainage

Parsley is a classic natural remedy for water retention.

Boil 2 cups (about 17 fluid ounces, or 500 milliliters) of water. Add 5 tablespoons of fresh parsley, let it steep for 5 minutes, then strain. Drink up to 3 cups per day, but do not exceed 1 quart (about 1 liter) in total.

Note: Pregnant women should avoid parsley tea.

Green Tea with Bay Leaves

Bay leaves, combined with green tea, can help reduce swelling.

Boil 1¼ cups (about 10 fluid ounces, or 300 milliliters) of water, add 1 to 2 bay leaves, and let them simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Let the water cool to about 175°F (80°C).

Add 3 tablespoons of green tea and a cinnamon stick, steep for 2 to 3 minutes, then strain. Drink this tea three times a day for up to a week.

Foods That Help the Body Let Go of Fluid

Include these foods in your daily meals to help reduce swelling:

Cucumbers are high in water and support kidney health
Celery contains compounds that aid digestion and fluid elimination
Ginger boosts metabolism and acts as a gentle diuretic
Carrots offer potassium, helping keep hydration in balance
Dandelion has long been used to help flush out water
Watermelon is made up of about 92 percent water and provides natural hydration

Healthy Habits to Prevent Water Retention

Make these simple changes to help your body stay in balance:

Cut back on salt, using herbs for flavor instead
Stay active—regular walking or biking improves circulation
Drink at least 6 to 7 cups (about 1.5 liters) of water each day
Eat potassium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, and spinach

Water retention is a common issue, but with these home remedies and daily habits, you can often find relief and restore a feeling of lightness and comfort. There it is