If you often experience a feeling of swollen, heavy legs and your cellulite is mainly located on the thighs, calves and inner arms, you are most likely affected by so-called “aqueous” cellulite. To get rid of it, you need to tackle the problem at its root and eliminate water retention. Combined with regular cupping massages, these 6 natural remedies will help you drain your body effectively, to restore smooth, toned, dimple-free skin.
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What is water retention?
First of all, a quick reminder about water retention. To understand this phenomenon, it helps to know how our body works. It is made up of approximately 70% water: 2/3 is locked inside the cells, while the remaining third circulates in the blood vessels or between cells. The body maintains this balance through a system that regulates water circulation. But sometimes this system fails, and water seeps into the tissues. Trapped there, it can no longer be eliminated naturally — this is water retention. It then causes swelling, known as oedema, particularly in the lower body (thighs, legs, ankles) — due to gravity. Beyond oedema, water retention can cause skin discolouration, tingling sensations, a rise in skin temperature in the affected areas, and weight gain.
The causes of water retention
Several factors can trigger or worsen water retention, including:
- Hormonal fluctuations: female hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) generally cause the dilation of blood and lymphatic vessels. The vital fluids responsible for circulating water properly throughout the body are “slowed down” by this vasodilation. As a result, water is less efficiently eliminated and tends to stagnate in the tissues.
- Heat: just like hormones, heat causes vasodilation, as well as increased vessel permeability. Water then escapes from the vessels and becomes trapped in the tissues.
- Prolonged immobility: sitting or standing for extended periods causes muscle contraction. Yet one of the functions of muscles is to “massage” the veno-lymphatic system, encouraging proper fluid circulation. When muscles remain contracted, venous circulation is impaired and water retention can occur.
- Poor dietary habits: certain foods are harmful to healthy blood circulation and cause water to accumulate in the tissues. This is the case with salt, which encourages water storage rather than elimination. A diet low in protein and high in carbohydrates only makes the problem worse.
- Medications: corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, treatments for high blood pressure and diabetes, antipsychotics, and certain hormonal treatments (the pill, HRT) can promote water retention.
- Underlying health conditions: venous insufficiency, cardiac and renal conditions, and thyroid disorders are all factors that can contribute to water retention.
Natural remedies for water retention
Cherries
Cherries are ideal for draining and detoxifying the body. But that’s not all: rich in potassium and B vitamins, they are excellent for fighting cellulite and caring for your skin. You can enjoy cherry stem infusions or eat one to two handfuls of cherries a day.
You can also use 1 slice of watermelon, 5 whole cherries and a little water to prepare a great draining remedy. Simply blend the watermelon with the cherries, then add a little water. You can drink this preparation on an empty stomach every morning for a week.
Pineapple
Water, fibre, vitamins and minerals: pineapple is the go-to fruit for health-conscious foodies — and for good reason! Its nutrients help drain the body and improve circulation naturally. Pineapple is an excellent anti-cellulite ally, helping to smooth orange-peel skin and target fatty deposits. Enjoy it in a fruit salad, at breakfast or as a snack. Always opt for fresh fruit and avoid tinned pineapple in syrup, which is far too sugary.
Fennel
Often overlooked and underappreciated, fennel is actually a remarkable detox and anti-cellulite ingredient. Try a delicious fennel infusion combined with the benefits of anise to stimulate drainage, reduce water retention and improve digestion for a flatter stomach!
Green tea
Among all the tried-and-tested home remedies, green tea needs no introduction: this drink is an excellent diuretic that helps drain the body, boost metabolism, burn more calories, eliminate stubborn fat and fight cellulite. One to two cups a day is all you need to reap its benefits!
Horsetail
Horsetail, like green tea, is one of the must-have anti-cellulite plants, perfect for brewing delicious infusions to enjoy several times a day. This plant is diuretic and helps eliminate water retention for lighter-feeling legs, while also caring for the skin by improving its firmness and smoothness.
Nettle
Nettle is one of the best remedies against dimpled skin and water retention. In addition to aiding digestion, eliminating toxins, providing a boost of vitamins and leaving skin and hair looking radiant, it naturally supports drainage to prevent water retention and the onset of aqueous cellulite. To easily enjoy its benefits, bring 1 cup of water to the boil, then add 1 handful of nettle and 2 slices of organic lemon. Leave to steep for 5 minutes, strain and drink the infusion — one to two cups a day.
To get the most out of these natural remedies, don’t forget your essential cupping massage sessions! This type of massage helps boost blood circulation, eliminate accumulated toxins and break down the fatty deposits responsible for cellulite. By combining cupping massages with your Cellublue Cup and natural remedies, you’ll quickly rediscover lighter, slimmer and more toned legs!
