One of the kidneys' main functions is to filter waste from the body and pass it along through the urinary tract for elimination. Kidneys are prone to developing stones and reduced function due to problems with blood pressure and an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Certain herbs and foods may help regulate the kidneys and improve their function. Herbal remedies may cause side effects, so consult a health practitioner before using unfamiliar herbs.
Cherry Juice
Cherry juice from tart cherries is high in potassium and may support kidney function. Potassium is one of the minerals affecting the kidneys, along with sodium and calcium. The balance between these minerals helps to regulate blood pressure in the body and keep the kidneys healthy. Drinking juices and eating foods high in potassium aid the kidneys in maintaining this delicate balance. Cherry juice helps lower uric acid levels and prevent stone formation. If you suffer from kidney disease, you may not need increased potassium. Always consult your doctor before using foods to treat serious disease.
Chinese Rhubarb
Chinese rhubarb may be helpful in prolonging survival during kidney disease by relieving chronic kidney failure in end-stage renal disease, according to the "Helio Acupuncture Book, Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica" by Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble. Rhubarb may produce side effects such as severe diarrhea, cramping and internal bleeding if not used according to directions. Consult a practitioner familiar with its use for treatment guidelines.
Lemon
Lemons are also high in potassium and citrate or citric acid, which may assist in dissolving certain kinds of kidney stones, like those formed by excess uric acid deposits. Lemon juice is best taken mixed with a glass of warm water. Water hydrates the body and is an important component in healthy kidney function. Drinking the lemon water first thing in the morning helps flush waste from your tissues and promotes urination at an hour of the day when the body is best suited for this cleansing activity. Drink a glass a day of unsweetened, warm lemon water to keep kidneys your healthy.
Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract is high in antioxidants, which provide the kidneys with an anti-inflammatory agent that may assist in reversing kidney disease, according to a study preformed in May 2000 at the University School of Medicine in Yugoslavia and published in the journal "Renal Failure." Although the study was performed with lab animals, researchers suggest that similar results might be expected in humans. Consult an herbal practitioner for guidelines for dosing and use.
References
- "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease"; Maurice Shils; 2005
- "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition"; Audrey H. Ensminger; 1995
- University of California San Diego Comprehensive Kidney Stone Center: Five Ways to Prevent Kidney Stones--From Lemonade to Surgery
- "Renal Failure"; Reversal of Experimental Myoglobinuric Acute Renal Failure with Bioflavonoids from Seeds of Grape; V Stefanovic; May 2000
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-Use A-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
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