What supplements can I take for Lipedema?

June 3, 2024

7 min read

Surgeon. Humbled to serve.

Lipedema is a genetically inherited, loose connective tissue disease or fat disorder that mainly affects women. There is no known medication to reverse its effects. Since science has yet to unravel the mysteries of Lipedema, it is difficult to predict which supplements can prevent or thwart its progression.

Overall, scientific studies are limited.

Robust studies to evaluate the efficacy and potency of supplements to help with the symptoms of Lipedema are lacking. Research that does exist focuses on symptom control as it mainly relates to pain, swelling, inflammation, and venous disease.

Lipedema Pain Control

Diosmin and Hesperidin¹

These are molecules called flavonoids found in citrus fruit.
They improve venous tone and lymphatic drainage to reduce leg swelling and venous drainage.

The above tend to be the two main supplements mentioned repeatedly in the Lipedema literature.

The herbs listed below are a sample of general ones that are mentioned in various literature to influence symptoms that are prevalent in diseases of all sorts but may also be beneficial for Lipedema.

Herbs with Potential Lipedema Benefits

Swelling Reduction in legs (associated with Lymphedema and/or Venous Disease)

Buthcher’s Broom²
Horse Chestnut²
Gotu Kola³

Anti-Inflammation ⁴

Cloves
Cinnamon
Turmeric
Ginger
Fennel
Chamomile
Garlic
Primrose

The above lists are only snapshots, esp. since the scientific literature is constantly being updated.

Friendly Reminder: Safety First!

Prior to starting any herbal treatment, always confirm that you can safely take this medication (including dose and category type) with your primary care physician and any other doctors that monitor your health. These specialists can prevent harmful effects from occurring based on your personal medical history and current medication profile.

As an added precaution, also check the safety and side effects of your herbal medicine at this handy website by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs/search

Lipedema & Selenium

Yes, there is some evidence to suggest that individuals with Lipedema may have a selenium deficiency, so speak to your primary care physician and Lipedema specialist for further guidance and testing.⁵

Supplements and Surgery

Decorative yellow graphic of medical cross and scalpel.

Certain supplements such as Garlic, Echinacea, and Ginseng can worsen bleeding during operations. There could be other supplements that you are taking that can contribute to blood loss, so check with your surgeon and primary care doctor on the safety of continuing your supplements till the day of surgery.

Handy Articles & Websites

Bonetti G, et al. Dietary supplements for lipedema. J Prev Med Hyg. 2022 Oct 17;63(2 Suppl 3):E169-E173. doi: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2S3.2758. PMID: 36479502; PMCID: PMC9710418.

Comments specifically on Lipedema related supplements, but studies mentioned are not robust.

https://www.va.gov/files/2023-09/Anti-Inflammatory%20Herbs%2C%20Spices%20and%20Condiments.pdf

Great article by the Veterans Affairs Health System that reviews common kitchen spices, beverages, and oils (to name a few) that have anti-inflammatory properties.