Some foods serve as diuretics. However, plant foods do not function as diuretics the same way as do the pharmaceutical drugs. This opinion has been expressed by plant expert Dr. Varro Tyler of Purdue University. Pharmaceutical diuretics increase the excretion of water and salt, whereas plant foods stimulate only a loss of water and not sodium. They should therefore be appropriately called “aquaretics”, says Dr. Tyler. These foods do this by irritating the cellular filters of the kidneys. However, their irritating mechanism could be detrimental to those having kidney disease. Such persons should therefore avoid the use of diuretic foods.
FOODS THAT INCREASE SECRETION OF URINE
Alfalfa, Banana Stem, Barley, Betel Leaf, Bottle Gourd, Cardamom, Coconut, Cucumber, Dandelion, Drumstick Flower, Grapes, Honey, Ladies finger, Musk Melon, Onion, Orange, Parslane, Parsley, Radish, Spinach, Sugarcane and Watermelon.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa contains several of the digestive enzymes, and carries nearly two per cent chlorophyll, which is about the richest of all plants. This green and wonder-working substance, in addition to its healing properties, has been found to be slightly laxative, digestive, diuretic and a splendid tonic. Being a good diuretic, it acts gently upon the kidneys. Many doctors have used it successfully for dropsy and inflammation of the bladder.
Alfalfa can be used in the form of juice extracted from leaves or in the form of herb tea, which is made from seeds as well as from dried leaves of the plant The tea from seeds is prepared by cooking them in an enamel pan with the lid on for half an hour. After cooking, it should be strained, squeezing or pressing seeds dry. It should be allowed to cool after adding honey to taste and put in a refrigerator. Cold or hot water should be added to taste before use.
Banana stem
Fresh juice from the porous stem of banana tree is an excellent diuretic food. It is rich in potassium, vitamins and other minerals. A glassful of this juice taken early in the morning acts as a very powerful diuretic in all conditions where profuse urination is indicated.
Barley
Barley possesses diuretic property. It should be used in the form of gruel for this purpose. Its gruel, especially in combination with buttermilk and limejuice, makes a valuable diuretic carbohydrate food. This combination is highly beneficial in the treatment of urinary disorders like nephritis and bladder infection.
Betel Leaf
The betel leaves are credited with diuretic properties. The juice should be extracted from these leaves and mixed with dilute milk and sweetened slightly. This mixture makes an excellent diuretic, which increases the secretion and discharge of urine. It is a specific medicine for scanty urination.
Bottle Gourd
This popular vegetable is of great value as a diuretic food. It is very effective in urinary disorders. A glass of fresh juice prepared by grating the whole fruit should be mixed with a teaspoon of limejuice. It should be taken once daily in the treatment of burning sensation in urinary passage due to high acidity of urine. It should be taken with sulpha drugs in the treatment of urinary infection. It acts as an alkaline diuretic in this condition.