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- World Journal of Urology: Botanical Medicines for the Urinary Tract
- World Journal of Urology: Botanical Medicines for the Urinary Tract
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Vegetables That Are Natural Diuretics
Regular urination is important for keeping your system free of toxins and other wastes, helping you maintain healthy blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of health complications. Certain vegetables are natural diuretics, which are substances that encourage urination 1. To ensure there are no potential complications, speak with a medical professional before you decide to drastically change your diet, as natural diuretics may cause problems with medications.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens, particularly dandelion and parsley, work by boosting your liver and kidney functions, increasing the amount of urine your body produces. Leafy greens are naturally high in potassium, which minimizes the risk of low potassium levels as a result of using diuretics.
Asparagus Root
Herbs for Swelling Feet & Hands
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Asparagus is a natural diuretic that is safe for regular consumption. The “West Indian Medical Journal” published a study in 2010 in which scientists found asparagus had a significant diuretic activity. This animal study found that, in concentrations of 3,200 milligrams, asparagus root extract was not toxic. While the study confirmed asparagus’ diuretic abilities, further research is needed, particularly on humans.
- Asparagus is a natural diuretic that is safe for regular consumption.
- The “West Indian Medical Journal” published a study in 2010 in which scientists found asparagus had a significant diuretic activity.
Celery Leaves and Seeds
Celery, both the leaves and the seeds, are known diuretics, according to ProgressiveHealth.com. It works by encouraging the flow of urine through the kidneys, aiding in the removal of uric acids. Celery contains both sodium and potassium and is rich in vitamin C, all three of which contribute to the vegetable's medicinal benefits. For reducing uric acid buildup, celery seed is particularly effective as it reduces uric acid levels in your system.
- Celery, both the leaves and the seeds, are known diuretics, according to ProgressiveHealth.com.
- Celery contains both sodium and potassium and is rich in vitamin C, all three of which contribute to the vegetable's medicinal benefits.
Artichoke Benefits
List of Natural Diuretics
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Artichokes are also on the list of traditional diuretics. These natives of Mediterranean Europe are also known for their ability to help with digestion. Artichoke leaves help stimulate the appetite, as well as treating bile deficiency and encouraging urination. Their rich phytochemical and mineral content make artichokes a potassium-sparing diuretic, so you will not lose excess potassium through urination.
- Artichokes are also on the list of traditional diuretics.
- Artichoke leaves help stimulate the appetite, as well as treating bile deficiency and encouraging urination.
Related Articles
References
- Progressive Health: Natural Diuretics That Reduce Swelling
- World Journal of Urology: Botanical Medicines for the Urinary Tract
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Edema
- NaturalFoodBenefits.com: Artichoke Health
- National Organization for Rare Disorders. Hypokalemia.
- Harvard Health Publishing. Low potassium levels from diuretics. Updated January 23, 2017.
- Kamel KS, Halperin ML. Hypokalemia. Fluid, Electrolyte and Acid-Base Physiology. 2017:393-432. doi:10.1016/b978-0-323-35515-5.00014-2.
- Veltri KT, Mason C. Medication-induced hypokalemia. P T. 2015;40(3):185–190.
Writer Bio
Marie Dannie has been a professional journalist since 1991, specializing in nutrition and health topics. She has written for "Woman’s Own," the "Daily Mail," the "Daily Mirror" and the "Telegraph." She is a registered nutritionist and holds a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in food science from the University of Nottingham.