Herbal Potassium Supplements

Potassium is a mineral crucial to the smooth functioning of your body. Low levels of potassium can lead to a dangerous condition called hypokalemia. Herbs such as stinging nettle, chickweed and dandelion possess copious amounts of potassium. Often these plants grow wild in the United States. You might find them in nearby fields, along roads and railroad tracks, and even in your garden. Before adding herbs to your diet, discuss them with your a qualified health care practitioner.

Potassium

Potassium works as an electrolyte, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Electrolytes are substances that carry electricity in your body. Potassium works in tandem with sodium to provide heart, muscle and nervous system functions. An adequate daily consumption of potassium for adults is 4,700 mg. Nursing women need up to 5,100 mg each day. The risk of hypokalemia, or low plasma levels of potassium, increases if you have congestive heart failure, an eating disorder or serious diarrhea, or you suffer from alcoholism. Hypokalemia can lead to exhaustion, muscle cramps, paralysis and cardiac arrhythmia, and it can be fatal.

Dandelion Greens

Dandelion greens can be bought by the bunch in Asian grocery stores. Added to salads or steamed, they have a slightly bitter taste. A serving of 4 oz. of chopped dandelion leaves contains an impressive 397 mg of potassium. In addition, they offer protein, iron, fiber, choline and large amounts of vitamin A. The leaves and roots have been revered since antiquity as a powerful herbal remedy for gallbladder, digestive and liver problems, according to Merrily A. Kuhn, author of "Winston and Kuhn's Herbal Therapy and Supplements."

Purslane

A staple in the traditional cuisines of Mexico, Russia and Central America, purslane is a long-time remedy for inflammation, high blood pressure and arthritis, according to Prairieland Community-Supported Agriculture. Purslane is another wild plant found in the United States that yields impressive nutritional numbers as it contains large amounts of potassium, magnesium and beta-carotene. Include this herb in stews, potato salad, omelets and pasta dishes to easily boost your potassium intake.

Stinging Nettles

A single cup of cooked stinging nettles contains almost 300 mg of potassium, along with iron, vitamins A and K, and over 1,000 mg of beta-carotene. Also known as common or greater nettles, this perennial plant is considered a weed by many. Tiny hairs on the stems and leaves release a burning chemical when touched. The chemical, formic acid, is made inert by cooking. Nettle greens are best picked when young and tender. They can be added to soups or substituted in recipes that call for chard or other leafy greens, according to acupuncturist and herbalist Jessico Godino in an article on Susun S. Weed's website.