Swelling (Edema) During Pregnancy

See also “Edema”
During pregnancy, the enlarged uterus exerts pressure on the pelvic blood vessels and constricts them, which leads to swelling of the feet. Swelling may also be due to lack of protein, lack of iron, or lack of exercise. Or it may be due to high blood pressure or poor circulation. Whatever the cause, it is important to treat it.

EFFECTIVE HERBAL REMEDIES

DRINK CUMIN-CORIANDER-FENNEL TEA. Mix equal proportions of these three herbs, and use ¼ to ½ teaspoon of each herb per cup of hot water. Drink 2 or 3 times a day.

USE A DIURETIC TEA. If the swelling is severe, certain herbal teas made of diuretic herbs can help to stimulate the kidneys. Make a tea of punarnava or gokshura, or combine the two in equal proportions, using 1 teaspoon of the mixture steeped in a cup of hot water. Drink 2 or 3 times a day. This tea will act as a mild diuretic and will remove the swelling.

TIME TO SEE THE DOCTOR

In certain extreme cases, during the last stage of pregnancy the placenta releases toxins and creates a condition characterized by increased blood pressure and swelling of the extremities; proteinurea, convulsions, and coma can develop. This dangerous condition is called eclampsia or pregnancy toxemia. It cannot be treated by home remedies; it requires prompt, expert medical supervision and care.

However, the following herbal formula will help, as an adjunct to treatment, to relieve the convulsions:

brahmi
jatamamsi
shanka pushpi

Mix these herbs in equal amounts. Use ½ teaspoon of the mixture to make a tea, and drink it twice a day.

NOTE: If there is ever a generalized swelling of the entire body (including, in men, a swelling of the penis and scrotum), this is a very serious, life-threatening condition that requires immediate treatment.

FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE. Use these herbs:

hawthorn berry
passion flower
arjuna
Mix in equal proportion, and use 1 teaspoon to make a tea. Take twice a day after meals until the situation is normalized. This simple tea will effectively regulate blood pressure. (For more suggestions, see “Hypertension.”)

IF THE PROBLEM IS ANEMIA. The swelling may be due to anemia. Folic acid anemia is common during pregnancy, and iron deficiency anemia not uncommon. You can have tests to determine whether you have these deficiencies. If you do, providing the missing ingredients will help reduce or eliminate the swelling. See “Anemia” for suggestions.

PROTEIN DEFICIENCY. Lack of protein may also be the culprit. If you determine that this is the case, eat more protein foods, such as soy products.

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS TO RELIEVE EDEMA

EXERCISE. Walking every day for 20 to 30 minutes will improve circulation and help reduce swelling.

AVOID SALT. Salt makes the body retain water and promotes swelling.

RAISE YOUR FEET. When lying down, put a pillow under your feet. This will drain the water and help to gradually decrease the swelling.