Swelling, especially in the legs, is not an illness on its own but rather a visible symptom of an underlying condition. It can occur due to heart problems, kidney issues, venous insufficiency, injuries, or even prolonged heat exposure. That’s why it’s crucial to address the root cause rather than just the visible swelling. Proper diagnosis by a medical professional is essential before starting any treatment.
One important thing to remember: self-medicating with diuretics (water pills) when you have facial swelling is often ineffective and, in some cases, can be harmful. If the swelling is due to an underlying disease, simply removing fluid without treating the cause can worsen the situation.
What Does Folk Medicine Recommend for Swelling?
For years, I used to experience noticeable swelling in my legs whenever the weather became hot. It was uncomfortable, made walking difficult, and sometimes even caused pain. Searching for relief, I explored traditional remedies and eventually found a natural method that truly worked for me.
The star ingredient? Flaxseed — a simple, inexpensive, and incredibly beneficial seed that can help remove excess fluid, reduce inflammation, and even support tendon health.
Recipe #1: Flaxseed Infusion for Swelling Relief
This flaxseed recipe is straightforward, affordable, and highly effective:
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons of flaxseeds
- 1 liter of water
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for taste)
Preparation:
- Pour the flaxseeds into a pot with 1 liter of water.
- Cover with a lid and simmer for 10–15 minutes over low heat.
- Remove from the heat, keep covered, and let it sit in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Strain the mixture using a fine strainer or cheesecloth.
- For a pleasant flavor and extra vitamin C, add freshly squeezed lemon juice.
How to use:
Drink the infusion hot or warm, half a cup at a time, 3–4 times a day.
Within just a few days of drinking this regularly, I noticed a remarkable difference — the heaviness in my legs lessened, the swelling decreased, and I felt more energetic.
Recipe #2: Motherwort Infusion for Calming the Heart and Reducing Fluid Retention
Another excellent remedy for swelling, especially when linked to heat or stress, is motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca). This plant has diuretic, calming, and heart-strengthening properties.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of dried motherwort leaves or flowers
- 2 cups of boiling water
Preparation:
- Place the herb into a thermos or heatproof container.
- Pour 2 cups of boiling water over it.
- Seal and let it steep for 4 hours.
- Strain before use.
How to use:
Drink before meals, 2–3 times daily. The course can last from two weeks to two months.
Motherwort not only helps reduce swelling but also supports the cardiovascular system, making it especially useful for people with high stress levels or mild heart rhythm issues.
Why Flaxseed Works — Expert Commentary
Flaxseed is more than just a natural diuretic — it’s a nutrient powerhouse. It contains:
- Healthy fats (omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids)
- High-quality plant protein
- Mucilage (a soothing, gel-like fiber beneficial for digestion and tissue healing)
- Carbohydrates and organic acids
- Vitamins A, B, E, and F
- Palmitic and stearic fatty acids
From flaxseeds, we also obtain flaxseed oil, which is considered a valuable dietary supplement. Rich in unsaturated fatty acids, it helps regulate metabolism, supports joint and tendon recovery, and improves cardiovascular health.
Flaxseed Oil — More Than Just a Supplement
Because of its composition, flaxseed oil:
- Lowers cholesterol levels in the blood
- Helps break down cholesterol plaques in blood vessels
- Supports artery flexibility and improves blood flow
- Activates fibrinolysis, the natural process that prevents dangerous blood clots
- Reduces blood clotting, lowering the risk of thrombosis
In medical practice, flaxseed oil is used to prevent and treat atherosclerosis, a major cause of heart disease. One pharmaceutical preparation derived from flaxseed oil, Linethol, is specifically designed for this purpose.
Beyond heart health, flaxseed oil is also applied topically to heal skin wounds, burns, and inflammation. It is useful for conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema.
Additional Benefits for Tendon and Joint Health
Swelling is often accompanied by stiffness or discomfort in joints and tendons. Flaxseed’s anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for:
- Tendon recovery after strain or injury
- Reducing inflammation in arthritis
- Supporting ligament flexibility
Athletes and physically active individuals often include flaxseed oil in their diet to maintain tendon and joint health over the long term.
Important Usage Tips
- Do not consume flaxseed or flaxseed oil in excessive quantities — moderation is key.
- For best results, follow a course of 1.5–2 months, then take a break for at least one month.
- Always store flaxseed oil in a cool, dark place to prevent oxidation.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with specific health conditions, should consult a doctor before starting any herbal remedy.
My Personal Experience
When I first started experiencing swelling, I tried several modern treatments with little effect. It wasn’t until I combined flaxseed infusion with a healthier diet and moderate physical activity that I saw a lasting improvement.
After about a week of regular flaxseed tea, the swelling in my legs reduced significantly. The heaviness and discomfort that used to make summer days unbearable almost completely disappeared. My tendons also seemed stronger, and I could walk for longer periods without pain.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with leg swelling — especially during hot weather — natural remedies like flaxseed infusion or motherwort tea can be a gentle yet effective option. They not only help remove excess fluid but also support your cardiovascular system, joints, and tendons.
Of course, remember that swelling is a symptom, not a disease. Always investigate the root cause, and consider these remedies as a complementary approach rather than a replacement for medical advice.
With consistency and proper care, you may find, just like I did, that a simple seed can make a big difference in your overall comfort and health.
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