The kidneys are powerful chemical factories, with the major function of removing waste products and excess fluid from the body through the urine, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Some other functions of the kidneys include balancing body fluids and regulating blood pressure. There are herbs that may help to enhance kidney functions. They include dandelion, cordyceps and rosemary. These herbs should be taken under the care and advice of a health-care professional.
Dandelion
Dandelion, or Taraxacum officinale, is highly respected and used by herbalists for its culinary and medicinal purposes. Dandelion is a natural diuretic. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dandelion leaves support kidney function, working to increase the production of urine and assist the kidneys in excreting salts and water from the body. The diuretic effects of dandelion may increase the excretion from the body of drugs being taken. Before taking dandelion, it's important to discuss with a health-care provider any prescription medications being taken. Dandelion is available as a tea, in tablets, capsules or as a liquid extract or tincture form.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is commonly called Chinese caterpillar or vegetable caterpillar. Cordyceps includes the fungus that grows on caterpillar larvae, called Hepialus armoricanus Oberthuer. According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, a literature summary by J.S. Zhu, et. al., "The scientific rediscovery of a precious Chinese herbal regime: Cordyceps sinensis," found reports of improved kidney function in 30 patients with chronic kidney failure. There was a decrease in the level of the waste product creatine in blood and urine, or creatine clearance, as well as a reduction in blood urea nitrogen, serum creatine and in urinary protein.
Rosemary
Rosemary, or Rosmarinus offcinalis, is a culinary herb that has health benefits, one of which is its effect as a mild diuretic. Caffeic acid and rosamarinic acid are the active ingredients in rosemary that make it an anti-inflammatory and a powerful antioxidant. According to The Healthier Life website, Dr. M. Halaoui, from the Department of Biology at University of Fez in Morocco, found that a daily dose of rosemary extract in liquid form can significantly improve kidney function. It also increases urine flow, while preserving the essential minerals chlorium.11, sodium and potassium. Rosemary should not be taken during pregnancy or by individuals with epilepsy or high blood pressure.
