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Understanding Water Retention in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

  • jessicamangala
  • 3 hours ago
  • 3 min read
credit: Alex Perez

Did you know that roughly 50–60% of your body is made up of water? That’s right - this vital fluid is constantly moving, nourishing your cells, and keeping you alive. But when this delicate balance is disrupted, your body can start holding onto water, a condition known as water retention or oedema (Purdie, 2024).


What Is Water Retention?


Water retention occurs when excess fluid builds up in your tissues, leading to swelling in areas such as your legs, ankles, feet, hands, and face. It can also make you feel heavier than usual, less nimble, and less active. (Purdie, 2024)


Water Retention in TCM


In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), water retention is viewed as more than just swelling, it reflects an imbalance in the body’s natural fluid metabolism. When vital fluids are not properly circulated, they can accumulate beneath the skin, causing puffiness in areas such as the face, eyelids, hands, legs, abdomen, or even the entire body (Zheng et al., 2025).


According to TCM, healthy fluid movement depends on the proper functioning of “Qi”, the body’s vital energy (Johnson, 2023).


 Several organs play key roles:

  • Lungs: Help disperse fluids throughout the body.

  • Spleen: Transforms and transports fluids derived from food.

  • Kidneys: Regulate water balance and urination.

  • Bladder: Works with the kidneys to remove excess fluid. (Zheng et al., 2025).


When any of these organs are weakened or out of balance, the body struggles to move and process fluids properly, leading to buildup and swelling. Over time, this often develops into dampness, a common TCM syndrome. (Qiu et al., 2024).


Dampness can arise from both external and internal factors. Externally, it may be triggered by humid weather, frequent rain, or living in damp environments. Internally, it can result from poor diet, irregular routines, stress, or organ dysfunction. (Qiu et al., 2024).


As dampness accumulates, symptoms may include fatigue, heavy or sluggish limbs, heavy-headedness, poor appetite, bloating, and more. It often combines with other pathogenic factors, leading to multifaceted syndromes, prolonged illness, and challenges in treatment. Research has shown strong links between dampness syndrome and many chronic diseases. (Qiu et al., 2024).


Lifestyle Tips to Support Healthy Fluid Balance


Alongside TCM approaches, nutrition and lifestyle choices may help reduce water retention:

  1. Eat Less Salt: Too much sodium can cause the body to hold onto water. Limiting salty, processed foods may reduce swelling.

  2. Increase Magnesium Intake: Supports body processes and may ease bloating. Sources include nuts, leafy greens, and whole grains.

  3. Boost Vitamin B6: Helps regulate fluid balance. Found in bananas, potatoes, chickpeas, walnuts, and tuna.

  4. Eat Potassium-Rich Foods: Potassium counteracts sodium, helping eliminate excess fluid. Bananas, avocados, and tomatoes are excellent options.

  5. Limit Refined Carbs: Foods like white bread and pasta can raise insulin levels, increasing sodium and water retention. Opt for fibre-rich whole grains instead. (Ajmera & Palsdottir, 2023)


TCM Treatments for Water Retention


Acupuncture is a common and effective TCM treatment for reducing water retention and swelling. It works by stimulating specific points to improve the function of organs that manage fluids, especially the spleen and kidneys. The spleen helps circulate blood and fluids, while the kidneys regulate water balance. When combined with moxibustion, which applies gentle heat, acupuncture can enhance circulation, warm the body, and help remove excess water. (Zhang, Onose, & Fujikawa, 2017).


Water retention is not just a matter of swelling; it reflects the delicate balance of fluids in the body and the interconnectedness of organ function in TCM. By combining lifestyle adjustments, mindful nutrition, and TCM treatments like acupuncture and moxibustion, you can support healthy fluid balance and reduce puffiness, helping your body feel lighter, more energised, and in harmony.


To experience the benefits of TCM for yourself, book a personalised acupuncture session at Realign Health Clinic and receive tailored guidance to help restore your body’s natural balance.


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