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What Are the Different Types of Natural Diuretics?
Diuretics are substances that can help the body expel excess fluids and sodium. Though many of these substances are prescription or over-the-counter drugs, natural diuretics are also available. Pill-based supplements are some of the most common natural forms of this substance, but it may also be found in herbal teas or in certain foods. Although natural medicines are commonly used, some debate continues about whether certain types of herbs are safe and effective to use as diuretics.
Some of the most commonly used natural diuretics come in supplement forms. Although there is little scientific data to prove their effectiveness, many believe that the herbs used in these supplements are as effective as pharmaceutical medications and may be less harmful to the body. Some frequently used herbs include hawthorn, dandelion, and parsley. Many diuretic supplements come in single-herb formulas, while others combine several herbs with varying degrees of diuretic properties.
Most of the natural diuretics found in supplements may also be used in herbal teas. For instance, stinging nettle, yarrow, linden flower, and fennel can all be brewed and lightly sweetened. Green tea, one of the more widely consumed teas, is also said to have diuretic properties. Although supplements may be convenient, some believe that herbal teas are more effective. This is due to the fact that, in addition to the stimulating properties of the herbs, tea also introduces extra fluid into the body, which is said to result in a more rapid removal of extra water.
In addition to tea, other liquids may be used as natural diuretics. For example, cranberry, pineapple, and lemon juices are said to aid in removing excess fluids from the body. Beverages that naturally contain caffeine, such as coffee and organic chocolate drinks, may also have a diuretic effect.
Many foods can also be used as natural diuretics. Certain types of fruits, such as melons, grapes, strawberries, and kiwis, can cause fluids to be expelled from the system. Vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and onions may also help get rid of water weight.
Although it is believed that natural substances are generally safe, it is important to remember that diuretics, including natural ones, may have side effects. Certain herbs may negatively interact with medications or aggravate the symptoms of some conditions. Additionally, diuretics in general can potentially flush other medications out of the body.
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![Cranberry juice is a natural diuretic.]()
By: Galina MikhalishinaCranberry juice is a natural diuretic. -
![Melons, like the casaba, are natural diuretics.]()
By: robert lerichMelons, like the casaba, are natural diuretics. -
![Grapes and other fruits are natural diuretics.]()
By: msk.ninaGrapes and other fruits are natural diuretics. -
![Vegetables like cabbage may help to get rid of water weight.]()
By: monticelllloVegetables like cabbage may help to get rid of water weight. -
![Diuretics are substances that can help the body expel excess fluids and sodium through urination.]()
By: ChatchaiDiuretics are substances that can help the body expel excess fluids and sodium through urination. -
![Green tea is said to have some diuretic properties.]()
By: tankist276Green tea is said to have some diuretic properties.
Discussion Comments
Now I understand why parsley, green tea and cranberry juice are recommended to those with minor kidney sand.
I sometimes experience kidney sand and I've always used a remedy taught by my mother. It involves boiling parsley with green tea and lemon. I strain and drink this solution first thing in the morning for several days when I have kidney sand. The sand is completely expelled as a result and my back pain is gone. I've always wondered how this works, I guess it's because these are all natural diuretics.
Of course, these cannot be used to treat kidney stones as that's a serious condition and requires medical care. But they may help with minor kidney sand.
@bear78-- Actually, coffee and other caffeinated drinks may not be as diuretic as we have assumed them to be for years. I read an article about this recently that was written by a doctor. And he said that the diuretic effects of coffee and similar drinks are actually minor, especially if the person consumes them regularly.
I don't think that coffee makes our body expel more water than it would otherwise. It might just speed up the process, causing us to urinate sooner. And coffee also causes thirst because it's an astringent. So we tend to drink water after coffee which also causes to more urination.
Coffee is very diuretic. Whenever I have coffee, I have to go to the bathroom soon afterward. Tea doesn't affect me as much but coffee does.
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