From the time of the ancient Greek and Romans, asparagus has been used for its diuretic properties.
Potassium-rich beetroots help remove fluid. Betanin, which gives beets their color, lowers C-reactive protein, making them anti-inflammatory.
Cabbage reduces water weight. The popular 'cabbage soup diet' uses cabbage's diuretic, high-fiber, and water content to lose weight.
Hippocrates recommended celery to eliminate excess fluid. Now scientists have identified that the phthalides in celery contribute to its diuretic effect.
Native Americans identified the diuretic effects of cranberries, using them to treat a number of conditions including scurvy, which they believed was caused by too much salt.
Cucumbers suppress nitric acid and inflammatory enzymes due to their high water and potassium content and low sodium content.
Allicin, the sulfur-based molecule that gives garlic its scent, is also therapeutic.It breaks lipids and is a powerful antioxidant.
Parsley, especially as a tea, is a traditional remedy for water retention. Parsley reduces the reabsorption of sodium and potassium salts in the kidney.
Watermelon, having 92% water and high potassium, is diuretic. This amino acid relaxes blood vessels and prevents fluids from seeping into tissue, reducing water retention.