According to the National Kidney Foundation, the kidneys have multiple functions. They aid in removal of excess fluid and waste from the body in the form of urine; release hormones that produce red blood cells and regulate blood pressure; feature active vitamin D production, which promotes healthy skeletal tissue; and balance all fluids in the body. You can use herbs to support kidney health by cleansing the kidneys, reducing the chances of kidney stone formation and other infections of the urinary tract. Always consult your primary physician before taking herbal cures, particularly if you are undergoing medical treatment.
Gravel Root
Gravel root is botanically known as Eupatorium purpureum and is commonly referred to as joe pye weed. It is a member of the Compositae family. The roots and rhizomes are used in folk medicine as one of the strongest herbs for kidney health, according to the book "The New Holistic Herbal" by herbalist David Hoffmann. It has diuretic qualities that according to Simon Mills in his book "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism," promote the flow of urine, helping cleanse the kidneys and prevent the formation of kidney stones, which are mineral deposits that may be present in the kidneys. It also helps dissolve existing kidney stones for a less painful release.
Hoffmann recommends making a gravel root decoction, or strong tea, by adding 1 tsp. of dry grave root to a cup of boiling water and letting it simmer for at least 10 minutes. Drink your gravel root decoction three times per day.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion is botanically known as Taraxacum officinale and is also a member of the Compositae family. Another strong kidney herb, it is a diuretic high in potassium, which prevents potassium depletion through the excessive urination it provokes, reads the book "Family Herbal -- A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality" by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar.
Gladstar recommends adding the young tender roots of dandelion to stir fry recipes and soups and to use them steamed in salads.
Hydrangea
Hydrangea is also known botanically as Hydrangea arborescens and is a member of the Saxifragaceae family. It is considered by nutritional counselor Phyllis Balch one of the strongest herbs for the kidneys, in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, the A-to-Z Guide to Supplements." Balch writes that hydrangea helps treat kidney disease and is beneficial for the removal of kidney stones. She notes that only the roots should be used as medicine, since the leaves are toxic due to a high cyanide content.
Hoffmann recommends taking 30 to 90 drops of hydrangea root tincture thrice daily.
References
- National Kidney Foundation: How Your Kidneys Work
- "The New Holistic Herbal"; David Hoffmann; 1995
- "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism"; Simon Y. Mills M.A., M.N.I.M.H.;1988
- "Family Herbal - A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- "Perscription for Nutritional Healing, The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
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