The kidneys are the body's built-in liquid filtration system. They remove toxins from the body and assist in excretion. However, over time, toxic build-up in the kidneys may cause poor renal function, edema, kidney stones and possible kidney infections. Fortunately, a few herbs and plants can help remove toxins naturally.
Burdock root
The root of the burdock plant, known for its flowering burrs, is used in herbal medicine. In Europe and Japan, its leaves are commonly eaten in salads. Burdock root has been used in herbal and folk medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, gout, rheumatism and skin conditions, such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health (CCNH) Herb Guide, burdock is a blood purifier and natural diuretic. It heps reduce inflammation in the body and promote healthy renal function. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) lists the typical dosage as 1 to 3 g in capsule form, or 2 to 8 ml of fluid extract, up to three times per day.
Goldenrod
Goldenrod, which is often mistakenly blamed for seasonal allergies, is a natural antiseptic that has a long history in herbal medicine. Traditionally, it was used as a topical wound cleanser, but herbalists also use it to treat diabetes, enlarged liver, gout, hemorrhoids, asthma, arthritis and even internal bleeding. UMMC notes that it is a natural diuretic and points out that a few animal and laboratory studies indicate that goldenrod can help reduce inflammation, relieve muscle spasms and fight urinary tract infections. It is commonly used to treat kidney stones and bladder infections. The adult dose is 2 to 4 ml of liquid tincture, two to three times per day.
Stinging Nettle
Although stinging nettles are considered a noxious weed by most, they have profound medicinal qualities, especially when it comes to keeping the bladder and urinary tract healthy. Stinging nettles were used as long ago as the Medieval period as a natural diuretic and in the treatment of gout, arthritis and other joint pain. Today, herbalists use the dried herb to treat many conditions, including muscle and joint pain, eczema, arthritis, anemia, enlarged prostate, urinary tract infections, hay fever, and even topically for insect bites. UMMC cites clinical studies that suggest that stinging nettle is effective at relieving urinary disorders such as reduced urinary flow, neurogenic bladder (incomplete voiding of the bladder) and post-urination dripping. The medical center suggests that 1 to 5 ml of the tincture, or fluid extract, may be taken three to four times daily.
Uva Ursi
Uva ursi, also known as bearberry, is an evergreen shrub native to Europe and North America that bears small red berries. However, only the leaves are used in herbal medicine. According to CCNH, uva ursi strengthens and tones the urinary tract and is a natural antiseptic and antibiotic. It is used by herbalists to treat kidney infections, bladder infections, urinary tract infections, diabetes and cystitis. However, UMMC warns that it can be toxic in high doses and should not be given to children. It recommends 2 to 4 g per day, for no more than five days.
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