Swollen ankles: the natural remedies to fight them

Swollen and painful ankles are a very annoying problem. Let’s see what the causes can be and how to deflate them.

Swollen ankles are a very common ailment, especially among women, caused by water retention . Often the ankles are not only swollen, but also aching, red and stiff.

It is not only an aesthetic problem, but also of health and therefore should not be overlooked. The first thing to do is to identify the root causes . Obviously, having your ankles a little swollen at the end of the day is normal, especially if you spend many hours standing or sitting on business. However, if in swelling it is very evident and accompanied by intense pain, it is better to consult a doctor.

Swollen ankles: the causes

As we anticipated, ankle swelling is caused by water retention . This accumulation of fluids in turn can be due to several factors. First of all, to a sedentary life and a lack of exercise. Physical activity improves the functioning of the veins, which are more easily able to pump the blood upwards towards the heart, preventing it from stagnating in the limbs.

Sitting for many hours sitting or standing is therefore a major cause of swelling. Swollen ankles in pregnancy are also very common, when the weight of the uterus pressing on the veins of the pelvis makes peripheral circulation more difficult.

Other causes may be hormonal imbalances due to menstruation and the use of the birth control pill, a diet too rich in salt and fat, being overweight, heart, liver and kidney disorders.

Swollen ankles: the remedies

If the swelling is very noticeable and disabling, we recommend that you seek medical attention, as drug treatment may be needed. In any case, it is possible to resort to natural remedies that immediately give relief to swollen and painful ankles.

Among these is the foot bath with water and salt or baking soda. Dissolve a handful of salt or baking soda in a bowl of warm water and leave your feet to soak for about half an hour. To enhance the effect of the foot bath, add a few drops of rosemary essential oil, thyme, mint or green tea to the water. Another valid remedy is the foot and leg lifelong massage , to be done at competent beauty or medical centers.

Finally, remember to use a little salt in your diet, to drink two liters of water a day and draining herbal teas and to take blueberry supplements to improve circulation.