Swelling

Definition

Swelling refers to an abnormal enlargement of any part of the body.

Trigger

Swelling is usually caused by an infection, injury or an allergic reaction. Your body enlarges or, “swells up,” as a protective response to the trigger. When something on your body starts to swell, the enlarged area is filled with bodily fluid.
Natural Cures

Ayurveda: Drink barley water throughout the day. To prepare barley water, boil 4 parts of fresh filtered water with 1 part barley, then strain.

Diet: Consume a healthy whole-foods diet, including plenty of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, and pure filtered water throughout the day. Herbal teas are also advised. Lower your salt consumption, and eliminate alcohol, soda, all processed sugars, espresso and other caffeinated beverages. Eat minimal amounts of commercial fruit and vegetables juices, dairy products, and avoid all foods to which you might be allergic or sensitive.

Homeopathy: Belladonna, Aconite, Ferrum phos., and Sulfur are useful homeopathic remedies.

Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is the process of alternating between hot and cold temperatures using water, ice and steam to maintain and restore health. Treatments include complete body immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation and the application of hot or cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective in the treatment of a wide range of conditions and can easily be utilized in the home as part of a self-care program. Numerous naturopathic physicians, physical therapists and day spas use hydrotherapy as part of their treatments. We recommend several in-house hydrotherapy treatments. Please seek the advice of an alternative healthcare practitioner prior to undergoing these types of procedures to make sure they are right for you.

Juice Therapy: Fresh-squeezed natural pineapple liquid (be sure to juice the armor as well) is great for swelling because of its higher bromelain content.

Nutritional Supplements: Proteolytic nutrients and bromelain, both taken on an empty stomach, are important nutrients for helping the body reduce swelling. Other useful nutrients include vitamin B-complex, supplement B6, and vitamin C along with bioflavonoids.

Topical ointment Treatment: For external swelling, apply a mixture of two parts turmeric with one part salt to the affected area.

Hot ginger root applied topically to the affected area may help increase blood circulation to the area, and help soothe associated pain and stiffness.

Alternative Professional Care

If your symptoms persist despite following the advice listed above, seek the help of a qualified health professional. The following expert care therapies have all demonstrated an ability to be helpful for treating swelling: Acupressure, Acupuncture, Bodywork (Lymphatic Massage), Power Medicine , Detoxing Therapy, Environmental Medicine, Magnetic Field Therapy, Naturopathic Medicine, and traditional Chinese Medicine. (See References for descriptions of these alternative therapies.)