Diuretics essentially refer to certain kinds of medication which perform the function of getting the body rid of both water and salt. This may seem rather strange, but this property of diuretics becomes necessary in cases of illnesses such as heart problems. Because of the nature of the functioning of diuretics, the term water pill has also been used for the same. There are some herbs in addition to foods which have the properties of diuretics. What essentially happens is that the arteries’ walls face lesser pressure when the fluid that naturally goes through one’s blood vessels is lesser. This is brought about by the functioning of such diuretics. They make the kidneys get rid of more the body’s sodium via urine. As a result of this, water from the blood present in our bodies also gets eliminated through urine. Many people opt to use such diuretics since it helps when it comes to dealing with a number of health problems. To explain further, let us take the condition of liver disease where the scarring of and the damage to one’s liver tissues may benefit from the use of diuretics. However, in this case it is usually used only when there is the further complication of excess amount of fluids which have accumulated in the liver. Remember that diuretics may also be used in treatment of various other kinds of illnesses such as glaucoma, heart failure and hypercalcemia. But, before you go using diuretics or diuretic herbs for these and other diseases, understand that the use of diuretics should not be taken lightly. If used incorrectly, or even if used correctly, it can sometimes complicate health problems. For instance, in case of renal insufficiency, although such medication is prescribed at times, there is a possibility that it can exacerbate this kidney problem. Furthermore, different kinds of diuretics are used in treatment of different conditions.
When dealing with the need for diuretics there are a number of herbs and foods which have the same properties. However, it is always important to check with one’s doctor before using diuretics since unwonted use can make matters worse. Stinging nettle is one natural herb which shows a lot of potential as diuretics. Another home remedy for getting rid of that unwanted fluid retention is the use of lemon. Both these herbs can not only benefit you because of their diuretic properties but also because of their usefulness in treating urinary disorders. Other diuretics include juniper berries and dandelions.