Over 20 million people are affected with kidney disease, according to the National Kidney Foundation, with another 20 million at heightened risk. Herbs may prove helpful in treating renal failure and other kidney problems. Because some herbs may produce side effects, consult your health practitioner before starting any new herbal regimen.
Chinese Rhubarb
A common herb used in both China and Japan, Chinese rhubarb may prove effective for the treatment of chronic kidney failure, according to the China Military Institute of Chinese Materia Medica. Research indicates that the extract of rhubarb may prolong survival during kidney disease. Consult a health practitioner familiar with Eastern herbal medicine.
Angelica Root and Astragulus
The combination of Angelica root and astragulus may protect the kidneys against reduced blood flow and improve oxygenation, according to China's First Hospital and Institute of Nephrology. Both herbs are used frequently in traditional Chinese medicine and may help with tissue recovery and increased kidney function. Speak to an herbalist familiar with Chinese medicine.
Cranberries
Cranberries are a culinary herb, widely used to strengthen the kidneys and urinary tract. They prevent the production of oxalate kidney stones according to the British Journal of Urology. They suggest drinking mixing 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice concentrate with 3 cups water and drinking throughout the day, every day to protect your kidneys.
Grape Seed Extract
The results of a study conducted at Yugoslavia's University School of Medicine indicated that lab animals induced with kidney failure, responded to grape seed extract by showing a reversal of symptoms after treatment. The exceptional results were attributed to the high amounts of antioxidants found in the grape seed extract, which were a factor in reducing inflammation in the kidneys. Researchers extrapolated from these results that the extract may help produce similar effects in humans. Consult with an herbalist or health practitioner familiar with using this herb.
Dandelion Greens
The common garden herb dandelion, has been used for centuries as a diuretic to reduce swelling in the body's tissues, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Less fluids in the tissues translates to less tendency toward hypertension. In addition, dandelion helps flush the kidneys, increase urination and balance the body's electrolytes, controlling blood pressure. Some people may be allergic to dandelion and develop a rash or sores in the mouth. Stop using it if symptoms occur. Do not use dandelion if you are taking diuretic drugs. Consult your health practitioner or an herbalist for dosing guidelines.
References
- British Journal of Urology, Vol. 52; Influence of cranberry juice on the
- Renal Failure; Reversal of experimental myoglobinuric acute renal failure with bioflavonoids from seeds of grape; V Stefanovic; May 2000
- Chinese Medical Journal; Astragali and Angelica protect the kidney against ischemia and reperfusion injury and accelerate recovery; Q Cai; February 2001
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Vol. 124; Assessment of the renal protection and hepatotoxicity of rhubarb extract in rats; J Wang; April 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dandelion
