While there are hormonal factors that are believed to play a role in the development of cellulite, poor circulation and lack of exercise are also thought to be to blame for this condition. Based on this last principle, the recommended herbal remedies for cellulite are lymphatic herbs. Lymphatic herbs help the body get rid of waste and metabolic by-products. The main herbal remedies recommended by natural therapists include cleavers, echinacea, root, and dandelion.
Cleavers is a diuretic, astringent and lymphatic herb. In addition to being used for cellulite, it is used for cystitis, edema, infections and inflammations of the upper respiratory tract, and the treatment of chronic skin problems. This includes psoriasis and eczema, and other non-chronic skin conditions.
Echinacea is a popular immune stimulant with antiseptic and tonic properties. Despite being an immune stimulant, it can be used in immune problems such as allergies, as well as autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Like the blades, it helps cleanse the blood and lymphatic system, making it a great option for cellulite. Echinacea also stimulates the circulatory system and is used for many skin conditions. Examples include boils, herpes, eczema, psoriasis, and skin ulcers. It can be used both externally and internally, and the species echinacea augustifolia and purpurea are generally preferred.
Poroot is an immune-boosting alternative anti-inflammatory herb that has great benefit for the lymphatic system. It is used for chronic rheumatism, tonsillitis, mastitis, mumps, acne, ringworm and ringworm. It can be used externally and internally, although it should not be used in large doses as it can be toxic. The recommended range for teas is 0.06 to 0.3 g of the dried root three times a day. If you are using a tincture or fluid extract, the dosage will be on the bottle.
Dandelion is a diuretic liver tonic that helps increase the loss of metabolic waste through the stool by increasing bile production. It is used for skin conditions, hypertension, digestive problems, exposure to toxins, gout, rheumatism, arthritis, fluid retention, and jaundice. Both the leaves and the root are used, the leaves having a stronger effect on the kidneys and the root on the liver.
These herbs can be prepared alone or in combination. If you are using them in combination, the best way to take them is probably as an herbal tea. You can usually buy dried herbs at a good health food store, though if you’re having a hard time getting hold of some, there are many small growers online that sell herbs directly to the public. You can often pick up good quality organic herbs at very reasonable prices.
Amounts in herbal tea recipes are usually given as a relative measure. So, for cellulite tea, you take one part cleavers, one part root, and two parts echinacea. Boil water over the herbs and let them infuse for about 5 minutes. Then strain the liquid and drink a cup three times a day.
References:
1. C Fisher and G Painter, Western Herbal Materia Medica for the Southern Hemisphere
2. P Bedson, The Complete Family Guide to Natural Healing