Your kidneys have a number of important functions including the removal of bodily waste products and emitting hormones that control blood pressure, according to the National Kidney Foundation. High blood pressure and diabetes are the most common causes of kidney disease, says the National Kidney and Urological Disease Clearinghouse. A number of herbs may help to improve kidney function. Always consult a physician and use caution when taking herbal supplements, since they are not regulated by Food and Drug Administration.
Cats Claw
Cat's claw has been used for a variety of ailments including arthritis and cancer since it was first used in South America hundred of years ago. Cat's claw has also been suggested to promote kidney health, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM. Substantive research is lacking into the true benefit of cat's claw for kidney function or any other health issue.
Side effects are rare but they may include dizziness, vomiting and headaches.
Grape Seed
The medicinal value of grapes can be traced back to ancient Egypt where they were praised for their touted healing properties, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Grape seed has been used to treat both kidney and liver conditions.
An Italian animal study published in May 2002 in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences found that resveratrol, a component of wine and grapes, appeared to have preventive effects on kidney disease in rats. The study was led by Alberto Bertelli of the Department of Human Anatomy, University of Milan, Italy.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take grape seed supplements, says the UMMC.
Horestail
Horsetail has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of health conditions, including kidney problems, according to the UMMC. It is also touted as an effective herbal remedy for urinary tract infections and kidney stones. People with existing kidney disorders or who have diabetes should not take horsetail, the UMMC warns.
Dandelion
Dandelion has been used throughout history to treat kidney and liver diseases, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM. Today, dandelion is regarded by some to be an herbal tonic that promotes kidney health.
Although dandelion is sometime suggested as a remedy for kidney disease and kidney stones, scientific evidence to support these claims is limited and further human research is needed, accordingn to Intelihealth.com.
Few side effects are linked to dandelion, although allergic reactions have been reported. Symptoms may include a rash, itching and redness of the skin and problems breathing.
