It helps to reduce edema.
Water retention occurs when water accumulates in the tissues. Instead of draining to the kidneys, the fluids remain in the body, causing swelling in certain areas. This can be caused by excessive salt and sugar intake, unbalanced hormones, lack of exercise, stress, certain medications, or poor circulation. To combat water retention, drink more water each day to help the kidneys function and move as much as possible. Wearing compression stockings also helps improve circulation and reduce swelling. Aromatherapy can also be beneficial.
Among the essential oils, Dr. Aude Maillard, a pharmacist specializing in scientific and medical aromatherapy, recommends that we use lovage root. A renal stimulant and diuretic, it drains excess water from the tissues. “It contains rare aromatic molecules called “phthalides” which have the property of detoxifying the body in a very effective and deep way. They will support the work of the liver and kidneys, the two master organs of metabolism which contribute to better detoxification of toxins and consequently, better drainage of the body” explains the specialist. Lovage EO is also interesting for regulating eating behavior because it is a nerve revitalizer.
To use, mix 1 to 2 drops in a teaspoon with a little vegetable oil (olive or rapeseed for example). Swallow 2 times a day while drinking at least 1.5 L of water to facilitate the work of this essential oil at the kidney level and promote drainage. “The aromatic pressure will seek out the stagnant fluids and drain them” explains the aromatologist. It is crucial to stay active during this lovage cure (walking, Pilates, yoga, swimming), because physical exercise helps drain fluids by stimulating the lymphatic system. However, lovage thins the blood, so it is not recommended for people with clotting problems or following anticoagulant treatment.
For a better result, the expert advises us to combine taking the essential oil with a massage with Provence cypress essential oil, a venous and lymphatic decongestant that helps reduce edema. Cypress is also anti-inflammatory, which will improve the comfort of the legs, which can be sensitive or even painful. “In practice, massage certain specific areas, particularly around the malleoli which are areas of water retention, and massage the tops of the feet until the metatarsals are visible” specifies the specialist. For each leg, dilute 3 drops of Provence cypress EO in a calophyllum vegetable oil, a circulatory tonic and blood thinner. Caution: “The cypress of Provence is hormone-like, it is therefore not recommended for women who have estrogen-dependent pathologies (breast cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, mastopathy and fibroids).”
Thanks to Dr. Aude Maillard, pharmacist specializing in scientific and medical aromatherapy, author of the Grand guide de l’aromathérapie (Éd. J’ai Lu)