Are you ready to delve into our list of kidney-loving herbs? Join us as we discover the evidence and the power of nature by exploring the top 7 herbs for kidney health.
The kidneys are vital parts of your body. These fist-sized and bean-shaped organs are involved in many essential bodily processes. They are often overshadowed by flashier organs but work tirelessly behind the scenes.
Your kidneys act as natural filters, cleansing your blood and regulating fluids. They are also important in the production of red blood cells and in controlling your blood pressure. All of these functions are essential to your well-being.
Thanks to the kidney’s low PR, many people neglect the organ until it’s too late. By keeping up with some bad habits like smoking and eating too much processed foods, the kidneys can be damaged so badly that they can’t carry out their functions.
This is where the power of nature steps in.
Are you ready to delve into our list of kidney-loving herbs? Join us as we explore the top botanical picks, their unique benefits, and how to incorporate them into your daily routine.
7 Top Herbs for Kidney Health
1. Chanca Piedra
The rainforests of South America are home to this kidney-loving herb. Scientifically known as Phyllanthus niruri, this herb also goes by many other names like stone breaker and seed-under-leaf. Very fitting names and we’ll tell you why.
The entire plant is used to make supplements that are beneficial to the kidney, from the stems to the seeds (which grow under the leaves).
Over the centuries, Chanca Piedra has been used to support kidney health, and now modern research is proving its effectiveness. A 2018 study (1) had 56 people with kidney stones taking Chanca Piedra for twelve weeks and guess what the results were?
Two-thirds of the participants saw a reduction in the size and number of their kidney stones. Now you get why they call it the Stone Breaker.
Add in the antioxidant effects of the herb and you can see why it is the first on our list. A supplement is a good way to benefit from this herb, so go get one.
2. Ginger
This next herb comes straight from our kitchens. Surprising as it may seem, ginger is a very potent herb for kidney health. As humble as this ubiquitous herb is, the research (2) is proving it to be a real renal powerhouse.
Ginger is stocked with antioxidants. These chemicals help the body get rid of free radicals or oxidative agents that are toxic to the kidney cells.
Ginger also contains gingerols and shogaols. These active ingredients help reduce inflammation in the body, aiding in the prevention of kidney scarring.
3. Celery Seeds
Celery seeds (Apium graveolens) are tiny, but don’t be fooled by their size. These herbs punch far above their weight when it comes to kidney support.
They have diuretic properties which make them act like tiny pumps that flush out toxins and waste products that burden the kidneys. Their antioxidant properties are vital in the fight against free radicals.
Plus, according to a study in mice (3), they are effective against kidney stones, making them all-round boosters of kidney health. So many benefits from such tiny things, and that’s why we love them.
4. Dandelion Root
Dandelion root is often relegated to the status of a weed, so it may be surprising to see it on this list of champions of kidney health. This humble herb boasts an abundance of antioxidants and prebiotics which work together to stimulate bile production.
This process aids digestion, reducing the workload on your kidneys and allowing them to focus on their filtration duties.
Dandelion root contains compounds like beta-carotene (4) and polyphenols which are vital antioxidants that aid kidney health. The herb also boasts some potent anti-inflammatory properties that provide an extra layer of protection for your kidneys.
The next time you see a dandelion growing in your yard, you’ll be able to recognize just how many benefits this little herb holds.
5. Horsetail
While the name “horsetail” might conjure images of fierce steeds, this herb offers a different kind of protection. Native to Northern Europe and North and Central America, this herb of the Equisetum family has been a medicinal remedy since the Greek and Roman times.
Horsetail is rich in silica. This mineral is known for strengthening connective tissues which act as a shield for your kidneys, potentially safeguarding them from damage. It also boasts of diuretic properties (5) which enhance the elimination of waste products.
6. Cornsilk
Cornsilk is often discarded as mere waste, but it is a hidden treasure for your kidneys. Brimming with flavonoids and antioxidants, this herb acts as a shield against oxidative stress and inflammation that can harm your renal health.
Its diuretic properties encourage the flushing of toxins which prevents them from accumulating and causing harm. Studies have also found (6) that Cornsilk increases the contraction of urinary smooth muscles, which enhances the passage of stones through the tract.
7. Parsley
Parsley packs a powerful punch when it comes to kidney health and delicious meals. It’s a rich source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and potassium, which are all essential nutrients that contribute to your kidney function.
Its diuretic properties make the elimination of waste products easier and prevents them from stressing these vital organs.
Parsley’s anti-inflammatory properties also protect against harmful cellular processes. When you include its activity against kidney stones (7), you see that the Parsley package is extraordinary.
Conclusion
The kidneys are some of the most important organs in the body. When their vital functions of excretion, blood pressure control, and red blood cell production are harmed, problems ensue.
Therefore, knowing top herbs for kidneys health is the easiest way to ensure their longevity. There’s no need for all the drugs and harsh chemicals when nature has all these gentle gems to help your kidneys.
Get a few of these supplements and take them diligently for the best results. You won’t be disappointed.
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29617079/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1319562X17302139
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7020841/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10511324/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7954623/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/289622536_In-vitro_anti-urolithiatic_activity_of_corn_silk_of_Zea_mays
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5698599/
Disclosure – This is an external post. The views expressed are of the sponsor/author/third party and not of Healthieyoo’s editorial team. We disclaim any and all liability to any party, person, company, or product for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental, or consequential damages arising either directly or indirectly due to the use of content published in this article. The publishers of this website take no responsibility for any health issues, personal injury, death, disability, or any other harm due to the content on our website or any advice or opinion expressed on our website. Please consult your healthcare professional before making any decision related to your health. Please also read our medical disclaimer”.
Related Posts
Multivitamin, Probiotic, Omega 3 – Don’t Let Dietary Supplement Selection Overwhelm You
