Drinking water helps flush the kidneys of waste, helping them to balance chemicals and regulate fluid in the bloodstream. Kidney disease may occur as the result of other disorders, such as heart failure, high blood pressure, lupus or diabetes. Toxins or infections can damage the kidneys. Renal calculi, or kidney stones, can form from the accumulation of mineral salts. Vitamins and herbal supplements used to support healthy kidney function should not be a substitute for regular medical care.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables. It is important for healthy development and immune function. Medline Plus states that vitamin C is traditionally used to fight bladder infections. The vitamin is administered before and after diagnostic tests to protect the kidneys against problems caused by contrast dye. Combined with vitamin E, vitamin C can reduce protein in the urine, a sign of progressive kidney damage, in patients with type 2 diabetes. If you have a history of kidney stones, check with your doctor before taking vitamin C.
Hydrangea
The roots and rhizomes of hydrangea plants are thought to break down and prevent the formation of kidney stones. The diuretic properties of this herb make it a traditional remedy for kidney disease. Do not use hydrangea leaves, as they contain toxic substances. Phytochemicals found in edible parts of hydrangea include quercetin and rutin; they are also a good source of calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenim and zinc. Scientists in China synthesized and described a compound called adicardin from hydrangea, which has anti-chronic kidney failure activity. The report was published in the August 2009 "Journal of Asian Natural Products Research."
Dandelion
The flowers, leaves, roots and tops of dandelion are rich in beta carotene, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3 and C. Do not use this herbal diuretic in combination with prescription diuretics. Nutritionist Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that dandelion root extract aids in excretion of the kidney's waste products and is very beneficial for nephritis, or kidney inflammation. There are no scientifically controlled studies that prove dandelion can prevent or cure any condition.
Asparagus and Parsley
Asparagus, an edible relative of lilies, contains a sulphur-like compound that causes a strong odor in the urine of most people who eat it. Parsley contains the essential oil apiole, thought to stimulate kidney function. German research scientist PC Dartsch investigated the mechanism of Asparagus-P, a herbal medicine made from equal parts asparagus roots and parsley leaves. In animal experiments, the remedy demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties and increased excretion of water from the kidneys without affecting electrolyte balance. The maximum recommended dose of the herbal product produced the strongest effects. The findings were published in the November 2008 "Phytotherapy Research."
References
- Medline Plus: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
- PubMed: Total Synthesis of Adicardin
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch, CNC, 2006
- PubMed: Effect of Asparagus-P on Cell Metabolism of Cultured Kidney and Inflammation-Mediating Cells
