Other anti-inflammatory dietary molecules, such as omega-3, and several spices (turmeric, garlic, and curry leaves) may reduce inflammation and edema [32, 48].
“Curcumin, a substance in turmeric, may help reduce inflammation in the body, so it's been sold widely as a supplement,” Kohls says. “It's also been touted as an antioxidant. Turmeric has also been applied to the skin for pain or swelling, and the essential oil can be used in perfume.”
Herbal teas such as turmeric, hibiscus, cinnamon, chaste berry, and nettle tea may aid to reduce water retention in your legs, depending on what the cause is. Let's read on to find out how you can get rid of excess water in your legs with herbal teas.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been used for 4,000 years to treat a variety of conditions. Studies show that turmeric may help fight infections and some cancers, reduce inflammation, and treat digestive problems. Many studies have taken place in test tubes and animals.
Compression therapy: By applying pressure from the outside, compression therapy can help move and filter fluid through the lymphatic system, alleviating lymphedema symptoms. Massage therapy: Similar to compression therapy, massage therapy can help manually push fluid through the lymphatic system and reduce swelling.
Moreover, selenium supplementation proved to be effective in the treatment of secondary lymphedema and reduced the production of reactive oxygen species [37]. Finally, a new promising molecule has been recently proposed for the treatment of lymphedema in the form of supplements, namely hydroxytyrosol (HT).
There's no cure for lymphedema. Treatment focuses on reducing the swelling and preventing complications.
Taking a turmeric supplement for four to eight weeks could help to improve the effects of inflammation such as ease the pain of stiff joints or help to improve our general health.
Unfortunately, turmeric doesn't offer a quick fix, so you'll need to take it daily to notice results. If you were wondering how long it takes turmeric to work, this can vary from person to person. However, you should usually expect to start noticing improvements in around 4-8 weeks when taken daily.
Depending on your body mass and condition, it will usually take around 4-8 weeks for you to start noticing improvements to your body and mind.
Generally speaking, a dose of 500 mg to 2,000 mg of turmeric is usually recommended. This is based on the dosages used in studies. Look for products that list the actual amount of curcumin in the supplement for best results. Doses of over 8 grams of curcumin per day are not recommended due to the risk of side effects.
So, in order to get the anti-inflammatory effect, one needs to get 500 to 1,000 milligrams of curcumin per day. One fresh teaspoon of ground turmeric has around 200 milligrams of curcumin. The quantity varies a bit depending on the origin and source.
Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may offer health benefits. Early studies say turmeric may help keep your heart, joints, and brain healthy. It also may play a role in protecting against cancer and diabetes, though more research is needed.
Hold the swollen part of the body above the level of the heart several times a day. Sometimes, raising the swollen area during sleep can be helpful. Massage. Stroking the affected area toward the heart using firm, but not painful, pressure might help move fluid out of that area.
High doses of turmeric could have a blood-thinning effect; if taken on top of prescribed anticoagulants, this could increase the risk of dangerous bleeding. People with liver or bile duct problems should not take turmeric supplements, as they can increase bile production. Cooking with turmeric shouldn't cause problems.
Body positioning — Leg, ankle, and foot edema can be improved by elevating the legs above heart level for 30 minutes three or four times per day. Elevating the legs may be sufficient to reduce or eliminate edema for people with mild venous disease, but more severe cases require other measures.
1. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids , which are abundant in fatty fish such as salmon or tuna, are among the most potent anti-inflammatory supplements. These supplements may help fight several types of inflammation, including vascular inflammation.
"Though used both in the morning or before bed at night, turmeric water serves to be the most beneficial when had empty stomach as it helps the body burn excess flab," the expert said. The first thing you eat or drink in the morning sets the course for the rest of your day.
Mix one part powdered turmeric to three parts raw honey. When you feel a cold coming on, eat a teaspoon of the mixture every two hours to boost immunity and lower inflammation.
When taken by mouth: Turmeric is likely safe when used short-term. Turmeric products that provide up to 8 grams of curcumin daily seem to be safe when used for up to 2 months, Also, taking up to 3 grams of turmeric daily seems to be safe when used for up to 3 months.
Avoid skin infections, burns, and injuries
Your body responds to infection, burn, or injury to the skin by sending extra fluid and white blood cells to the area. If lymph nodes and vessels are missing or damaged, it's harder for your body to move this extra fluid, which can trigger or worsen lymphedema.
Avoid wearing tight clothing or jewellery. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time if you have leg swelling.