7 Methods to Relieve Swollen Feet

Air travel, standing for long periods of time or even pregnancy can cause your feet to swell due to fluid accumulation. This condition can become very uncomfortable, especially when wearing shoes or performing certain daily activities.

5-Minute Crafts has compiled some tips to help you alleviate this discomfort easily.

1. Soak your feet in tonic water.

The quinine present in the tonic water will help to reduce inflammation, so it can be very effective in eliminating swelling. To try this simple trick, follow these steps:

1. Fill a bowl with cold or room temperature tonic water.
2. Soak your feet for at least 30 minutes. Do this once or twice a day.

2. Prepare a mint bath.

Because of its diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects, peppermint can be beneficial in reducing swelling in your feet. To use:

1. Put 1/2 cup of fresh mint leaves into 4 cups of water.
2. Wait 10 minutes and remove from heat. Let cool for another 10 minutes.
3. Remove to a large bowl and soak your feet for 30 minutes or until the water cools completely.

3. Use Epsom salt.

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulphate, can help reduce muscle aches and inflammation, eliminate toxins, and promote relaxation. To use:

1. Place enough warm water in a large bowl; make sure it covers your feet completely.
2. Add ½ cup of Epsom salt and stir until diluted.
3. Soak your feet for 15 minutes.

4. Massage yourself with grapefruit essential oil.

Besides being an ingredient widely used in aromatherapy, grapefruit essential oil helps stimulate blood circulation, so adding it in a massage can be very beneficial to deflate your feet. Use it as follows:

1. Mix 10-12 drops of essential oil and 2 tablespoons of some type of carrier oil, either almond or coconut oil.
2. Massage your feet with firm, circular movements for a few minutes.

Important: Never apply essential oils directly on the skin without first diluting them in a conductive oil, as they may cause irritation or allergies.

5. Sleeps on your side.

Sleeping on your side, preferably on your left side, will reduce the pressure in the veins through which the blood that returns from your feet to your heart circulates. This will help improve circulation in the area and eventually deflate your feet.

6. Modify some details of your diet.

Fluid retention, and swollen feet as a result, may be due to a magnesium deficiency in your diet. Be sure to consume foods rich in this nutrient, such as almonds, spinach, broccoli, avocado, and dark chocolate.

It is also recommended to reduce your sodium intake by adding less salt to your meals.

If you do not notice much difference after making these changes in your diet and you prefer to opt for some type of supplement, consult a doctor first to know the appropriate doses.

7. Elevate your feet.

When sitting or lying down, try to elevate your feet above the level of your heart. Place pillows, cushions or anything that will help you get comfortable and keep them in that position for at least 20 minutes. This will help drain accumulated fluids, improve your circulation, and even help your legs to deflate if they are also swollen.