Siberian ginseng is an herb native to Russia with several traditional uses, one of which is defending against the common cold and flu. It has also been used in Russia as an energy-boosting herb. Scientific studies confirm that the herb is beneficial in supporting the immune system through illness, and it can have benefits for your memory. However, there is no known relationship between Siberian ginseng and the kidneys.
Expert Insight
According to both the University of Maryland Medical Center and the National Institutes of Health, there is no known relationship between Siberian ginseng and kidney function. This does not mean that there is no way in which the two are related, but it does mean that medical science has not identified a correlation, making it unlikely that use of Siberian ginseng would directly affect kidney function.
Kidney Function
The primary function of the kidneys is to process the body's blood and clean out waste materials. According to the National Institutes of Health, the kidneys remove about 2 quarts of waste products and excess water for every 200 quarts of blood passed through the organs. This waste and water becomes urine and is excreted from the body.
Complications
Several complications can arise that inhibit normal kidney function and could even lead to failure of one of your kidneys. Kidney disease could be triggered by diabetes, according to the National Institutes of Health, and high blood pressure can also cause damage in the small blood vessels of the kidneys. You may also suffer from an inherited or congenital kidney disease.
Medical Interactions
There are some medications Siberian ginseng interacts negatively with. Because of this, the herb should not be taken in conjunction with medications for heart problems, blood-thinners or treatments for insomnia. It may be possible that Siberian ginseng can interact with a drug or medication in ways that affects the kidneys either directly or indirectly.
Considerations
Always consult a doctor prior to taking an herbal medication for any reason, especially if you currently take other pharmaceutical medications as well. New medications are liable to affect the kidneys in various ways, and studies examining the influence of Siberian ginseng in the body are ongoing.
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