Herbal Remedies for Kidney Function

The kidneys are an important filtration organ, whose main purpose is to clean the blood throughout the day. The blood is necessary for survival because it brings oxygen and nutrients to every area of the body. Blood also removes wastes and toxic substances from the body as well. If the kidneys are not functioning well, the blood is not cleaned very well and this can lead to a variety of diseases. Natural remedies help clean and strengthen the kidneys.

Use Uva Ursi

Uva Ursi is one of the frequently suggested herbs for the kidneys. Also known as bearberry, this herb helps the kidneys in a few different ways. According to the article 6 Herbs for Kidney Cleanse on the Vitamins to Health website, uva ursi has antibacterial, antiseptic and astringent properties that help to kill germs and disinfect the kidneys. This article also recommends parsley, kelp, horsetail and nettle for cleaning the kidneys. Diuretic herbs help the body to secrete more urine. By producing more urine, the kidneys and bladder help to flush out wastes and toxins. These herbs are sold in health food stores and online. Most are available as capsules, but some are also sold as teas. If taking the herb in pill form, start with a small dose to see how your body reacts. Herbs are still drugs and should be taken with caution. Follow the directions on the label and see an herbalist for expert advice.

Take Ginger

Ginger is considered an excellent herb for improving kidney function. The article “Ginger” on the Herbs 2000 website states that ginger is a natural blood thinner and helps to relive clots. The Herbs 2000 website also writes, “One of the main benefits of the herbal ginger remedy is its ability to stimulate the circulatory system.” This increased blood flow helps the millions of tiny blood vessels on the nephrons, the tiny filtering units of the kidneys that clean the blood. Ginger can be used in a variety of ways. As a spice it is used in cooking like ginger bread. Supplements and teas are also good ways to get the benefits of ginger. These products are sold in health food stores. Follow the direction of the bottle if you are taking the ginger in supplement form.

Take Couch Grass

Kirk Patrick on the Natural News website suggests five herbs to help kidneys, including couch grass. “Couch grass increases urine production and treats urinary tract infections such as cystitis and urethritis,” writes Patrick. Couch grass has bacterial properties that aid in treating these inflammatory diseases. The herb is useful in treating other disorders that impair kidney function. Couch grass partially dissolves kidney stones. This herb is available as a supplement. Patrick also reports that the root of the herb can be ground up and used as a coffee substitute. The four other kidney herbs recommended are uva ursi, green tea, java tea and rehmannia.