Numerous herbs may improve kidney and liver problems. According to the National Kidney Foundation, millions of Americans suffer from kidney-related disorders. The MayoClinic website states that liver problems are also a common problem in the United States, and may be caused by genetics, viruses or certain chemicals. Before taking herbs to help treat your kidney and liver problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects, proper dosage and potential drug interactions.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is an herb that may help treat your liver problems. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, milk thistle, also known as silybum marianum, has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy to help treat numerous health problems, especially liver and gallbladder problems. Milk thistle, which has a bitter taste, is native to the Mediterranean region, although it now grows throughout the world. This plant prefers to grow in sunny, dry areas. The seed of the plant is used medicinally. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that milk thistle is an antioxidant and protects and restores the health of your liver. Milk thistle, notes Tilgner, is most effective for liver diseases, including hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis and liver regeneration after exposure to toxins. Before taking milk thistle to help treat your liver problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Uva-Ursi
Uva-ursi is an herb that may be effective for treating kidney problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, states that uva-ursi, also known as Arctostaphylos uva-ursi or bearberry, is a trailing evergreen shrub that produces red berries and thrives in alpine forests throughout the world, including North America, Europe, Siberia and the Himalayas. Uva-ursi grows slowly, notes UMMC, but often succeeds in places where other plants fail, such as canyon walls. The leaves of the plant are used medicinally. According to Tilgner, uva-ursi is a urinary tract antiseptic, diuretic and kidney stimulant. Uva-ursi also increases blood flow to your kidneys and helps treat urinary tract infections. If you are pregnant, avoid using uva-ursi. Before taking uva-ursi to help treat your kidney problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Dandelion
Dandelion is an herb that may help treat both kidney and liver problems. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, dandelion, also known as Taraxacum officinalis, has been used in many traditional medical systems, including Native American medicine and Arabic medicine, to treat liver diseases, kidney diseases and spleen problems. The leaves, flowers and roots of dandelion are used medicinally. The leaves and root have a bitter taste. Tilgner states that dandelion is a diuretic, stomachic, mild laxative, cholagogue and choleretic. According to Ed Smith, an herbalist and author of the book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," dandelion cleanses both your liver and your kidneys and is a general tonic to your digestive organs. Before taking dandelion to help treat your kidney and liver problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
