Diuretics are medicines that help the body get rid of extra fluid. Some claim that certain herbs and dietary supplements can work as diuretics. Examples include dandelion, ginger, parsley, hawthorn and juniper. In theory, natural diuretics may help ease fluid retention by making you urinate more. But there's little research that shows these herbs or supplements work well as diuretics.
Many health conditions and medicines can cause the body to hold extra fluid. So it's important to talk with your healthcare professional about possible causes of fluid retention before you try to treat it yourself with herbs or supplements. Also, some herbs and supplements can make certain health conditions worse. They also may interact with medicines. And that can lead to other health issues.
Some people want to get rid of extra fluid to help with weight loss. Others may be trying to ease fluid retention that's related to menstruation. But eating a healthy diet, cutting back on salt and getting plenty of exercise typically are better ways to manage extra fluid than taking herbs or supplements.
Don't start taking an herb or supplement as a diuretic without talking with a member of your healthcare team first. If you're worried about fluid retention or want to learn more about how to ease it, talk with your healthcare professional about your concerns.
Show References
- Sterns RH. General principles of the treatment of edema in adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 18, 2025.
- Dandelion. NatMed. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 19, 2025.
- Ginger. NatMed. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 19, 2025.
- Parsley. NatMed. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 19, 2025.
- Hawthorn. NatMed. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 19, 2025.
- Juniper. NatMed. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Accessed Feb. 19, 2025.
- Using dietary supplements wisely. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/supplements/wiseuse.htm. Accessed Feb. 18, 2025.
- Sterns RH. Pathophysiology and etiology of edema in adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 18, 2025.
- AskMayoExpert. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Mayo Clinic; 2023.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/expert-answers/water-retention/faq-20058063