You come home after a long day, take off your shoes, and there… your feet are swollen, sore, and almost unrecognizable. Whether you’ve been standing for too long, been exposed to heat, or eaten too much salt, swollen feet are common—but they’re not irreversible. Before you worry, know that there are simple and effective measures you can take to quickly relieve this discomfort.
Why do our feet swell?
Foot swelling or edema can occur for various reasons:
Heat that dilates blood vessels;
Poor venous circulation
; Too much salt in your diet
; Pregnancy or taking certain medications;
Dehydration or lack of exercise
. Often, swelling is benign. However, it can also be a sign of circulatory or kidney disease, so it’s important to monitor for associated symptoms.
Natural and easily accessible remedies to relieve foot swelling.
Cold for fast relief.
Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your feet for 15 to 20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and relieve the feeling of heaviness. It’s ideal after a day of extreme heat or prolonged standing.
Legs up: a simple and effective reflex
Lie down and prop your legs up against a wall or pillow so they’re higher than your heart. This action promotes venous return and naturally reduces swelling.
Relaxing foot bath: your ally for relaxation
A warm foot bath, alone or with Epsom salt, helps relieve tension, stimulate circulation, and eliminate toxins. Hot water dilates blood vessels; salt helps flush out accumulated fluids.
Bonus tip: A few drops of lavender essential oil enhance the calming effect.
Alternate hot and cold water to stimulate circulation.
Prepare two basins: one with hot water and one with cold water. Soak your feet in warm water for 3 to 5 minutes, then in cold water for 30 to 60 seconds. Repeat the process for about 15 to 20 minutes. This contrast stimulates microcirculation and reduces fluid retention.
more on the next page
You come home after a long day, take off your shoes, and there… your feet are swollen, sore, and almost unrecognizable. Whether you’ve been standing for too long, been exposed to heat, or eaten too much salt, swollen feet are common—but they’re not irreversible. Before you worry, know that there are simple and effective measures you can take to quickly relieve this discomfort.
Why do our feet swell?
Foot swelling or edema can occur for various reasons:
Heat that dilates blood vessels;
Poor venous circulation
; Too much salt in your diet
; Pregnancy or taking certain medications;
Dehydration or lack of exercise
. Often, swelling is benign. However, it can also be a sign of circulatory or kidney disease, so it’s important to monitor for associated symptoms.
Natural and easily accessible remedies to relieve foot swelling.
Cold for fast relief.
Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your feet for 15 to 20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and relieve the feeling of heaviness. It’s ideal after a day of extreme heat or prolonged standing.
Legs up: a simple and effective reflex
Lie down and prop your legs up against a wall or pillow so they’re higher than your heart. This action promotes venous return and naturally reduces swelling.
Relaxing foot bath: your ally for relaxation
A warm foot bath, alone or with Epsom salt, helps relieve tension, stimulate circulation, and eliminate toxins. Hot water dilates blood vessels; salt helps flush out accumulated fluids.
Bonus tip: A few drops of lavender essential oil enhance the calming effect.
Alternate hot and cold water to stimulate circulation.
Prepare two basins: one with hot water and one with cold water. Soak your feet in warm water for 3 to 5 minutes, then in cold water for 30 to 60 seconds. Repeat the process for about 15 to 20 minutes. This contrast stimulates microcirculation and reduces fluid retention.
more on the next page