The kidneys are important for human health because they are needed to sift waste products from the blood. Without proper kidney function, wastes would be allowed to build up in the blood. High blood pressure and diabetes are the two conditions that most commonly have a damaging effect on the kidneys, however, poisoning or injury may also inhibit their proper function. Protecting the health of the kidneys is beneficial to total body health. Some herbs are found to be helpful in maintaining kidney function. Check with your doctor before taking herbal remedies.
Step 1
Consume couch grass. This grass purportedly has diuretic qualities that promote urine production and improve kidney function, and it may even partially dissolve kidney stones, according to NaturalNews.com. Although it can begin the breakdown of kidney stones, this herb should not be seen as a cure or treatment for kidney stones. Consult a doctor before taking couch grass.
Step 2
Drink green tea. Also known as camellia sinensis, green tea contains polyphenols, or plant antioxidants, that help prevent kidney stones from forming if consumed regularly,notes NaturalNews.com. Green tea is a natural source of caffeine, which is also a diuretic, meaning that it encourages the kidneys to filter and excrete. This herb also has an anti-inflammatory effect, which reduces swelling and discomfort associated with many diseases and conditions, including those related to the kidneys.
Step 3
Take dandelion root. Supportive of not only the urinary tract but also the kidneys and liver, this natural diuretic is gentle and safe to use in support of kidney health. This herb is noted to have contraindications when problems with the liver or gallbladder are present. Talk to your doctor before using dandelion root.
Step 4
Use rehmannia. This herb comes from the flower known as di huang in Chinese herbal medicine. Acting as a tonic to the kidneys as well as a diuretic in the body, rehmannia is a potent source of phytosterols and plant antioxidants, which increase overall body health and protect against degenerative diseases including those affecting the kidneys, states NaturalNews.com. Discuss rehmannia with your doctor to see if it could be of benefit to you.
Step 5
Take rosehips. This herb can be used as a tea or taken in capsules. Rose hips are a gentle diuretic to the body while causing little to no irritation to the kidneys. Rose hips also support a healthy digestive tract.
