7 Simple Ways to Reduce Water Retention

7 façons simples de réduire la rétention d'eau

In summary: Water retention affects 1 in 2 women in France. To reduce it effectively, 7 scientifically validated solutions work synergistically: limit salt, optimize magnesium and vitamin B6, increase potassium, use draining plants (dandelion, orthosiphon, cherry stems), move daily, stay properly hydrated, and support venous return. First effects in 7 to 14 days, optimal results at 3 weeks of regular treatment.

Your ankles are marked by sock indentations by the end of the day. Your rings feel tight. You've gained 2 kg for no apparent reason, and you feel bloated and puffy. These sensations are the typical signs of water retention, a condition affecting approximately 1 in 2 women in France and affecting the daily lives of millions of people.

Good news: in the vast majority of cases, water retention is not serious and remains completely reversible thanks to simple lifestyle adjustments and scientifically validated natural solutions. No need for aggressive chemical diuretics: 7 natural levers are enough to regain lightness in 2 to 3 weeks.

This guide presents the 7 most effective solutions to reduce water retention, their mechanism of action, scientific evidence validating them, and concrete protocols to implement starting today. Whether you suffer from pre-menstrual bloating, heavy legs by day's end, or persistent aqueous cellulite, you'll find here a natural and sustainable strategy.

1/2
women affected
in France
7
natural solutions
validated
7-14 days
first visible
effects
1-3 kg
of water eliminated
in 3 weeks
The Nutrition•pro reference
Diuretine — complete natural draining agent
Our Diuretine combines in a single synergistic formula 5 of the 7 solutions from this article: dandelion, orthosiphon, cherry stems, potassium citrate and magnesium bisglycinate. The most complete solution on the French market to combat water retention effectively and sustainably.
Discover Diuretine

Self-test: Am I affected by water retention?

Before diving into solutions, let's clearly identify whether you're affected. Check the symptoms you recognize. If you check 4 or more, you're very likely experiencing water retention and will benefit greatly from the solutions below.

✓ Do you recognize these signs?
  • Swollen ankles at the end of the day
  • Persistent sock marks on the calves
  • Feeling of heavy legs
  • Rings that are tight, puffy fingers
  • Puffy eyelids in the morning
  • Face marked by the pillow upon waking
  • Bloated belly at the end of the day
  • Rapid weight gain (1-3 kg in a few days)
  • Aqueous cellulite (soft orange peel appearance)
  • Symptoms worsened before your period or by heat

Key takeaway: water retention can account for 1 to 3 kg on the scale, which explains why your weight sometimes fluctuates with no apparent reason. It's not fat — it's water that disappears within a few days once you adopt the right habits and natural draining agents.

Solution 1 — Reduce salt (the absolute priority)

1

Limit salt to less than 5 g per day

The #1 most powerful and fastest lever
–2 kg
of water possible

Excesssalt is the number 1 cause of water retention. Sodium retains water in tissues through osmotic effect: for every gram of excess sodium, the body retains approximately 100 ml of additional water. The French consume on average 9 to 10 g of salt per day, while theWHO recommends less than 5 g.

Why it works

Reducing salt allows the kidneys to restart water elimination. In practical terms, going from 10 g to 5 g of salt per day can eliminate 1 to 2 kg of retained water in one week. This is the fastest and most visible effect of the 7 solutions in this article.

Hidden sources of salt to watch out for
  • Bread : the #1 contributor in France! One baguette = 4-5 g of salt
  • Processed meats : ham, cured sausage, pâtés, bacon bits
  • Cheeses : especially aged and industrial cheeses
  • Ready-made meals : pizzas, lasagnas, industrial soups, frozen meals
  • Canned goods : vegetables, fish, canned prepared dishes
  • Industrial sauces : soy sauce, ketchup, mayonnaise, salad dressings
  • Appetizers : chips, salted crackers, olives, salted peanuts
What to do instead
  • Prefer fresh foods to processed foods
  • Season with herbs and spices (basil, thyme, turmeric, garlic)
  • Read labels: aim for products with less than 0.3 g of salt per 100 g
  • Cook at home as much as possible
  • Replace salt with lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, gomasio

Solution 2 — Optimize magnesium and vitamin B6

2

Bisglycinate magnesium + vitamin B6

The scientifically proven winning duo
75 %
French people with a deficiency

The magnesium and the vitamin B6 play an essential role in regulating the body's water balance. Magnesium is a cofactor of the sodium-potassium pump, which regulates water balance at the cellular level. Vitamin B6, in its active form P-5-P, has a natural mild diuretic action and modulates aldosterone (the hormone that controls water and sodium retention).

The reference scientific study

A study by Walker (1998, Journal of Women's Health) demonstrated that daily supplementation of 200 mg of magnesium combined with 50 mg of vitamin B6 significantly reduced water retention, bloating, and cyclical weight gain in women suffering from premenstrual syndrome. Effect observed within 2 months of treatment.

Why choose bisglycinate

Not all forms of magnesium are equal. The bisglycinate is the form that is best absorbed (bioavailability greater than 80%) and best tolerated digestively (no digestive issues). It is also the most widely used in modern clinical studies.

Food sources
  • Green vegetables : spinach, Swiss chard, kale
  • Nuts and seeds : almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds
  • Legumes : black beans, lentils, chickpeas
  • Whole grains : quinoa, buckwheat, millet
  • Dark chocolate (≥ 70% cocoa)
  • Mineral water : Hépar, Rozana, Contrex

But beware: 75% of French people have a magnesium deficiency . Covering your needs through diet alone is difficult, especially in cases of chronic stress (which increases urinary magnesium loss).

The essential cofactor
Magnesium+ bisglycinate Nutrition•pro
Our Magnesium+ provides the bisglycinate form, the best absorbed and tolerated, complemented by vitamin B6 in its active P-5-P form. The scientifically validated duo against PMS water retention, stress, and muscle cramps. A 4-month course for lasting results.
Discover Magnesium+

Solution 3 — Increase potassium intake

3

Boost your potassium intake

The natural counterbalance to sodium
3500 mg
RDI/day

Potassium potassium is the mineral #1 for intracellular water balance. It works in tandem with sodium via the sodium-potassium pump, which regulates the water balance of every cell in the body.

Why it works

When sodium intake is too high and potassium is insufficient (a very common situation in France), water is retained in the tissues. Increasing potassium helps flush out excess sodium and therefore the water that accompanies it. This is the other side of solution 1 (reducing salt).

Food sources rich in potassium
  • Banana : 350 mg per 100 g
  • Avocado : 485 mg per 100 g
  • Cooked spinach : 466 mg per 100 g
  • Sweet potato : 475 mg per 100 g
  • Cooked lentils : 370 mg per 100 g
  • Coconut water : 250 mg per 100 ml
  • Dried fruits : dried apricots, raisins, dates
Potassium citrate as a supplement

For those who struggle to reach the recommended 3500 mg/day, potassium citrate is the most bioavailable and best-tolerated form. It is the form used in Diurétine by Nutrition•pro, in synergy with draining herbs to amplify their effect.

Solution 4 — Draining herbs (the winning trio)

4

Dandelion + orthosiphon + cherry stem

The 3 most studied diuretic plants
★★★
renal drainage

Draining herbs are the most powerful and fastest natural solutions to reduce water retention. Three of them dominate the scientific literature by far.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

The most scientifically studied plant .Rich in potassium salts (up to 4% of dry weight) and taraxacin, it stimulates kidney function and increases urine production by 30 to 40%. A study by Clare et al. (2009) demonstrated a significant increase in diuresis from the first dose. Validated by the EMA (European Medicines Agency).

Orthosiphon (Orthosiphon stamineus)

The "Java tea", one of the most powerful diuretic plants in herbal medicine. Rich in flavonoids (sinensetine), polyphenols and triterpenic saponins, it can increase urinary volume by up to 50%. Validated by the EMA.

Cherry stem (Prunus cerasus)

Listed in the French Pharmacopoeia, cherry stem has been used for centuries for gentle drainage. Its richness in potassium salts, flavonoids and organic acids gives it a gentle yet effective diuretic action, particularly beneficial for long-term treatments or alternating use.

Why combine them

These 3 plants have complementary mechanisms of action. Combining them allows you to address all aspects of renal drainage: stimulation of filtration, sodium elimination, potassium balance. This synergy explains why combined formulas (such as Diuretine) are significantly more effective than plants taken individually.

The complete Nutrition•pro synergy
Diuretine — dandelion + orthosiphon + cherry stem + potassium + magnesium
Diuretine combines in a single formula the 3 reference draining plants + potassium citrate + magnesium bisglycinate. The most complete synergy on the French market for marked results without electrolyte imbalance. 40-day course.
View Diuretine
The gentle and ritual approach
Cherry stem infusion Nutrition•pro — 100g
For those who prefer herbal teas to capsules: our pure cherry stems can be prepared as an infusion or decoction. Ideal for a spring cleanse, for a gentle draining ritual. Pleasant fruity taste, perfectly well-tolerated for long-term use.
Discover the infusion

Solution 5 — Stay properly hydrated (the paradox)

5

Drink 1.5 to 2 liters per day

The counterintuitive that changes everything
1.5-2 L
per day

Here is one of the most counterintuitive paradoxes of water retention: drinking less makes the problem worse. Many people think that limiting their water intake will reduce their bloating. The opposite actually happens.

Why it works

When the body senses a lack of water (dehydration, even mild), it activates storage mechanisms as a safety measure: it retains the available water in interstitial tissues. It's an ancestral survival reflex. Conversely, abundant hydration reassures the body, which then restarts elimination through the kidneys.

What to drink
  • Plain water : the foundation, 1.5 to 2 L per day
  • Draining herbal teas : dandelion, orthosiphon, cherry stem (2-3 cups/day)
  • Green tea : antioxidant, mildly diuretic
  • Water-rich foods : cucumber (96%), watermelon (92%), zucchini (95%), pineapple (87%), strawberry (91%)
What to limit
  • Alcohol : dehydrating and vasodilator (worsens retention)
  • Excessive coffee (> 4 cups/day) : dehydrating at high doses
  • Sugary drinks and sodas : hidden sugar and salt content aggravates retention
  • Mineral waters very high in sodium : avoid during a draining cleanse period

Solution 6 — Move to activate circulation

6

30 minutes of activity per day minimum

The natural muscle pump
30 min
per day

Physical activity is the natural pump for venous return and lymphatic drainage. With each contraction of the calf muscles, the deep veins are compressed and blood is propelled toward the heart. The abdominal and thoracic muscles play a similar role in lymphatic drainage.

Most effective sports against water retention
  • Swimming and water aerobics : water pressure massages the legs and supports venous return. The gold standard sport.
  • Walking : 30 min/day minimum, accessible to all, perfect daily activity
  • Cycling : excellent calf activation without impact
  • Yoga : inverted postures (legs up) highly beneficial
  • Pilates : strengthens core and lymphatic drainage
Sports to moderate in case of marked symptoms
  • Intense running on pavement (strong impact on veins)
  • Sports in hot environments (hot yoga, sports sauna)
  • Sports with straining (heavy weightlifting, abdominal pressure)
Active breaks for sedentary individuals

If you work in a seated position (office work, remote work): stand up every hour for 2-3 minutes, perform ankle flexion-extension (20 repetitions), take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Solution 7 — Support venous return

7

Venotonic plants + circulatory techniques

Combine renal drainage and venous tone
×2
combined effectiveness

Water retention is very often accompanied byfunctional venous insufficiency (heavy legs, swollen ankles at the end of the day). Combining renal drainage (solutions 1-5) with venous return support significantly amplifies results.

Validated venotonic plants
  • Horse chestnut (aescin): the most scientifically studied (Cochrane meta-analysis 2012, The Lancet study 1996)
  • Red vine (anthocyanosides, OPC): capillaries, venous return
  • Butcher's broom / Ruscus (ruscogenins): powerful venous tone
  • Witch hazel : microcirculation, varicosities
Daily circulatory techniques
  • Elevate the legs 15-20 min in the evening (above heart level)
  • Shower legs with cool water moving up from ankles to thighs
  • Compression socks class 1 if standing or sedentary profession
  • Avoid heat excessive (sauna, hot baths, sun exposure)
  • Sleep with the foot of the bed slightly elevated (5-10 cm)
The ideal circulation supplement
Lymphaline — venous comfort and light legs
Our Lymphaline combines the best venotonic plants (horse chestnut, red vine, butcher's broom) for optimal venous return. To be combined with Diuretin for profiles combining water retention and heavy legs (very common). 2-3 month course for lasting results.
Discover Lymphaline

Summary table of the 7 solutions

Here is a summary of the 7 solutions, their expected effect and their action priority according to your profile.

Solution Mechanism Quick effect Priority
1. Reduce salt Less osmotic retention Very quick Priority 1
2. Magnesium + B6 Electrolyte balance 2-4 weeks Essential
3. Potassium Sodium counterbalance Quick Essential
4. Draining plants Stimulated kidney drainage 7-14 days Priority 1
5. Hydration Boost elimination A few days Essential
6. Movement Muscle pump Immediate Essential
7. Venous return Venous tone + capillaries 2-6 weeks According to profile

6 typical profiles and adapted protocols

Depending on your situation and the main cause of your water retention, the optimal protocol varies.

Profile 1 — Woman with hormonal water retention (PMS, menopause)

Characteristics : cyclical swelling 5-10 days before menstruation, breast tenderness, bloated abdomen, weight gain of 1-3 kg, irritability.

Profile 2 — Executive / remote work / sedentary office work

Characteristics : 8-10 hours in sitting position, heavy legs at end of day, swollen ankles, sometimes early signs of varicose veins.

  • Priority protocol : Lymphaline for venous return
  • Diurétine in occasional treatments (3 weeks every 8 weeks)
  • Active breaks every hour + class 1 compression socks
  • See our complete heavy legs guide

Profile 3 — Standing profession (hairdresser, nurse, restaurateur)

Characteristics : 8-10 hours standing, very heavy legs, very swollen ankles, muscle pain, early signs of venous insufficiency.

  • Recommended stack : Lymphaline (venous return) + Diurétine (drainage)
  • Magnesium+ for frequent nighttime cramps
  • Class 1-2 compression socks essential
  • Elevate legs for 20 minutes when arriving home in the evening

Profile 4 — Post-pregnancy woman with aqueous cellulite

Characteristics : residual post-partum edema, soft orange-peel skin on thighs and buttocks, hormonal fluctuations from breastfeeding.

  • Priority protocol : Cellulip® to target aqueous cellulite
  • Diurétine as complement (general drainage)
  • Important : wait until the end of breastfeeding before starting drainage supplementation
  • Manual lymphatic drainage (specialized physiotherapy)
Special aqueous cellulite
Cellulip® — anti-cellulite and drainage
Cellulip® specifically targets aqueous cellulite, that soft orange peel skin linked to water retention in adipose tissue. Ideal for gynoid profiles (lower body fat storage) and post-pregnancy periods (outside of breastfeeding).
Discover Cellulip®

Profile 5 — Senior (60+) with evening edema

Characteristics : swollen ankles at end of day, thinner and more fragile skin, sometimes associated medical treatments.

  • Gentle approach : Cherry stem infusion 2-3 cups per day
  • Lymphaline for weakened venous return
  • Medical advice mandatory in case of treatments (anticoagulants, antihypertensives)
  • Gentle walking 30 min/day

Profile 6 — Athletic woman in cutting / competition prep

Characteristics : search for muscle definition, controlled diet, period before competition or photo shoot.

  • Targeted solution : Diurétine in a 7-10 day course before your goal
  • Magnesium+ to support performance and prevent cramps
  • Maintained hydration (3+ L/day)
  • See our creatine guide
The winning combo Nutrition•pro
Diurétine + Lymphaline Stack
For profiles combining water retention AND heavy legs (very common) : Diurétine for renal drainage, Lymphaline for venous return. The complete dual action, scientifically validated, for results superior to isolated solutions.
Build your stack

When to consult a doctor?

Functional water retention is benign in the vast majority of cases. However, certain warning signs require prompt medical consultation:

⚠ Consult your doctor if :

  • Unilateral edema (only one limb swollen) : may signal venous thrombosis
  • Intense pain, redness, warmth on the swollen area
  • Shortness of breath, intense fatigue, palpitations : may signal heart involvement
  • Edema persistent despite natural solutions applied for 3-4 weeks
  • Significant facial edema upon waking (possible kidney involvement)
  • Sudden weight gain (> 3 kg in a few days) without explanation
  • Personal or family history of heart, kidney, or liver disease

These situations may reveal pathological edema requiring specific medical management. Natural solutions never substitute for medical treatment.

Complete scientific FAQ

Symptoms and diagnosis
How to eliminate water retention quickly?

To eliminate water retention quickly:

  • Immediately reduce salt to less than 5 g/day
  • Drink 1.5 to 2 L of water per day
  • Increase foods rich in potassium (banana, avocado, lentils)
  • Consume draining plants (dandelion, orthosiphon, cherry stem)
  • Walk 30 min per day
  • Elevate your legs 15-20 min in the evening

First visible results in 7 to 14 days, optimal at 3 weeks of regular treatment.

How to tell if it's fat or water?

Several indicators help distinguish water retention from fat gain:

  • Speed : water retention appears in a few days, fat in several weeks
  • Location : water retention mainly affects ankles, legs, fingers, eyelids
  • Pit test : press on the tibia for 5 seconds. Persistent mark = water retention
  • Fluctuations : water retention varies throughout the day, fat remains stable
What is the difference between water retention and edema?

These are two terms for the same phenomenon: an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial tissues. The water retention is the common term, theedema is the medical term.

We distinguish betweenfunctional edema (linked to lifestyle: salt, hormones, sedentary behavior) which is benign and reversible, andpathological edema (linked to heart, kidney, or liver disease) which requires medical consultation.

How many kilos can water retention represent on the scale?

Water retention can represent 1 to 3 kg on the scale, sometimes more in case of severe PMS or hormonal cause (up to 5 kg in extreme cases).

These kilos are eliminated quickly (within a few days to 2 weeks) as soon as you adopt the right habits: salt reduction, adequate hydration, draining plants, physical activity. These are the kilos easiest to lose because they do not correspond to adipose tissue.

Causes
Why do I have water retention before my period?

It's premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which affects 75% of women. In the second half of the cycle, fluctuations in progesterone and estrogen alter capillary permeability and sodium retention. Consequence: 1-3 kg of water retained in the 5-10 days preceding menstruation.

Solutions: reduce salt that week, increase potassium and magnesium (Magnesium+ bisglycinate), Diurétine course 7-10 days before your period, maintained hydration.

Why does heat worsen water retention?

Heat causes vasodilation (blood vessels dilate to evacuate body heat). This dilation slows venous return, particularly in the legs where gravity opposes blood flow back to the heart.

Result: blood stagnates, pressure in the capillaries increases, and water escapes into the tissues. This is why water retention worsens in summer, on airplanes, in saunas, or with underfloor heating.

Does the contraceptive pill promote water retention?

Yes, some combined pills (estrogen-progestin) can promote water retention, especially those with high estrogen dosage. Typical symptoms: weight gain of 1-2 kg in the first months, sensation of bloating, tender breasts.

Solutions: never stop your pill without medical advice. Discuss with your gynecologist a change of pill if retention is bothersome. In the meantime, natural solutions (Diurétine, Magnesium+, lower-salt diet) remain compatible.

Plants and supplements
What is the best natural diuretic?

The dandelion is the most studied and most effective plant for kidney drainage. Rich in potassium salts and taraxacin, it stimulates kidney function and promotes the elimination of water and sodium.

Theorthosiphon and cherry stem are the two other solid scientific references. For marked results, the ideal is tocombine these 3 plants synergistically (as in Diurétine), with potassium citrate and magnesium bisglycinate for complete draining action.

How long does a water retention treatment last?

An effective treatment lasts 2 to 3 weeks, renewable 2 to 3 times per year. The first effects are visible within 7 to 14 days (sensation of lighter legs, loss of 1-2 kg of water), with optimal results at 3 weeks.

The most relevant periods: spring (seasonal drainage), summer (heat), premenstrual periods (cyclically), after holidays (dietary excess).

Is magnesium effective against water retention?

Yes, particularly in women suffering from premenstrual syndrome. A study by Walker (1998, Journal of Women's Health) demonstrated that a supplementation of 200 mg of magnesium combined with 50 mg of vitamin B6 significantly reduced water retention, bloating and cyclical weight gain related to PMS.

Magnesium regulates electrolyte balance and complements potassium's action. Preferred form: bisglycinate, better absorbed and tolerated.

Natural diuretic or chemical diuretic: which to choose?

For functional water retention (lifestyle, hormones, diet), the natural diuretics are perfectly suitable and safer in the long term. They respect mineral balance and do not deplete the body.

Chemical diuretics (furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide) are medications reserved for proven cardiac, renal or hepatic conditions, by prescription. They cause mineral loss and should never be used for aesthetic purposes.

Can Diurétine and Lymphaline be combined?

Yes, it is even the recommended combination for profiles combining water retention and venous insufficiency (very common). The two products work on complementary mechanisms:

  • Diuretin : renal drainage and water elimination
  • Lymphaline : venous return and capillary tone

Ideal for chronic heavy legs, standing/sedentary professions, and marked water retention.

Lifestyle and practical tips
Should you drink less water when experiencing water retention?

No, it's exactly the opposite. Drinking less worsens water retention because the body, as an alert signal, will store more of the available water. You should instead drink 1.5 to 2 liters per day to restart the elimination system.

Favor plain water, draining herbal teas (dandelion, orthosiphon, cherry stem) and water-rich foods (cucumber, watermelon, zucchini, pineapple).

What foods should you avoid when experiencing water retention?

Priority items to limit: salt and salty foods (cured meats, cheeses, processed meals, canned goods, sauces). The WHO recommends less than 5 g of salt per day, but average French consumption is 9-10 g/day.

Also limit: refined sugars (fuel inflammation), alcohol (dehydrating), ultra-processed foods. Prioritize: potassium-rich foods (banana, avocado, lentils, dried fruits), diuretic foods (cucumber, asparagus, pineapple, watermelon, fennel).

Does potassium really help with water retention?

Yes, it's even the key mineral. Potassium acts as a counterbalance to sodium in cellular water balance (sodium-potassium pump). When sodium intake is high and potassium is insufficient, water is retained in tissues.

Increasing potassium intake (banana, avocado, spinach, lentils, coconut water) helps eliminate excess sodium and therefore retained water. Supplements based on potassium citrate (Diuretin) reinforce this effect more significantly.

How to reduce bloating before an event (wedding, photos)?

"Express anti-bloating" protocol over 7-10 days:

  • D-7 to D-1 : Diuretin 3 capsules/day + Magnesium+ + 2L water/day
  • Salt : limit to < 3g/day (home cooking without added salt)
  • Diuretic foods : asparagus, pineapple, cucumber, watermelon, artichoke
  • Daily exercise : 30-45 min of walking or swimming
  • Elevate the legs 20 min in the evening
  • D-1 evening : no alcohol, no salty foods, light dinner rich in potassium

Expected result: –1 to –3 kg of water, noticeably less bloated face and figure.

Why do I bloat more in summer than in winter?

The summer heat is one of the major aggravating factors. It causes vasodilation of blood vessels (to evacuate body heat), which slows venous return. Consequence: blood stagnates in the legs, water escapes into the tissues.

Summer solutions: Diurétine course of treatment from May to September (in 3-week courses with breaks), Lymphaline for venous return, cold showers on the legs, frequent swimming.

Why do I swell on an airplane?

Several factors combine on an airplane: prolonged sitting position, reduced cabin pressure, dry air (dehydration), salty meals served on board.

Solutions: wear class 1 compression stockings on flights > 4 hours, drink 200-300 ml of water per hour, walk in the aisle every 1-2 hours, perform ankle flexion-extension exercises, avoid alcohol and coffee. Preventive Diurétine course 3-4 days before and after a long trip.

Safety and precautions
Are there any contraindications to natural draining products?

Yes, certain situations require caution or medical consultation:

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding : not recommended without medical advice
  • Severe kidney or heart failure : medical advice mandatory
  • Elderly persons on medication : risk of interactions
  • Active kidney stones : avoid strong diuretics
  • Children : not recommended

If in doubt, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Can a natural draining product cause weight loss?

A natural draining product eliminatesexcess water, not fat. You may lose 1 to 3 kg of retained water, which can visibly slim your figure (less puffy belly, legs, and face). But this is not a loss of fat mass.

For true sustainable weight loss, you must combine drainage + mild calorie deficit + physical activity. Diurétine can be an excellent supplement in a weight loss approach, but not the sole solution.

Can you take draining products continuously?

No, it is recommended to do targeted courses of 2 to 4 weeks, repeatable after a break of at least 1-2 weeks. Prolonged continuous use can lead to mineral loss (potassium in particular) and accustom the body.

The most relevant courses: spring (seasonal drainage), summer (heat), premenstrual periods, after the holidays. 3-4 courses per year of 3 weeks = an excellent pace.

To go further

Water retention is not inevitable. With the 7 solutions in this guide, you can regain lightness in just a few weeks.

Our Diurétine combines in a single synergistic formula 5 of the 7 solutions from this article: dandelion, orthosiphon, cherry stem, potassium citrate and magnesium bisglycinate. The reference for effective and remineralizing drainage.

For profiles combining water retention and heavy legs, pair Diurétine with our Lymphaline (venous return). To target aqueous cellulite, our Cellulip®. For herbal tea enthusiasts, our cherry stem infusion as a gentle cure.

To explore related topics further: our comprehensive guide to water retention (12 plants and nutrients), our heavy legs guide (11 remedies), our ashwagandha KSM-66® guide (cortisol and hormonal retention).

Important reminder: this article is for informational and educational purposes. It does not replace individual medical advice. In case of persistent water retention, asymmetrical retention, accompanied by pain, shortness of breath, or medical history (heart, kidneys, liver), consult your doctor before any supplementation. Dietary supplements are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding without medical advice.

Scientific sources
  • Walker AF, De Souza MC, Vickers MF et al. Magnesium supplementation alleviates premenstrual symptoms of fluid retention. J Womens Health. 1998;7(9):1157-1165.
  • Clare BA, Conroy RS, Spelman K. The diuretic effect in human subjects of an extract of Taraxacum officinale folium over a single day. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(8):929-934.
  • Adam Y, Somchit MN, Sulaiman MR et al. Diuretic properties of Orthosiphon stamineus Benth. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009;124(1):154-158.
  • Babotă M, Voştinaru O, Păltinean R et al. Chemical Composition, Diuretic, and Antityrosinase Activity of Traditionally Used Romanian Cerasorum stipites. Front Pharmacol. 2021;12:647947.
  • WHO. Guideline: Sodium intake for adults and children. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2012.
  • WHO. Guideline: Potassium intake for adults and children. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2012.
  • EMA (European Medicines Agency). Community herbal monograph on Taraxacum officinale Weber ex Wigg., folium. 2009.
  • EMA. Community herbal monograph on Orthosiphon stamineus Benth., folium. 2010.
  • French Pharmacopoeia. List A of medicinal plants used traditionally. ANSM.
  • Mortimer PS, Levick JR. Chronic peripheral oedema: the critical role of the lymphatic system. Clin Med (Lond). 2004;4(5):448-453.
  • ANSES. The facts on salt: why consume it moderately. 2024.
  • EFSA. Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to magnesium. EFSA Journal. 2010;8(10):1807.
  • EFSA. Dietary reference values for potassium. EFSA Journal. 2016;14(10):4592.
  • Stookey JD. Negative, null and beneficial effects of drinking water on energy intake, energy expenditure, fat oxidation and weight change. Nutrients. 2016;8(1):19.

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