The kidney is a small organ but with a huge responsibility. This bean-shaped organ manages body detoxification functions- filtering out blood, removing acidic waste, maintaining electrolyte balance, and removing excess fluids from the human body. Sounds simple, but it’s way more complicated. If this waste is retained in our bodies, body organs will malfunction. To simplify, if kidneys do not work properly, the situation can be life-threatening. Kidney function is affected by many factors. Poor diet, diabetes, high blood pressure, and excessive alcohol consumption are some of the culprits. 

Kidney disease is a growing global health concern, affecting millions of people every year. Cases of CKD or chronic kidney disease are skyrocketing, affecting almost 10% of the global population. This gradual, derogatory condition can ultimately lead to kidney failure. However, with Ayurveda, kidney damage can be reversed. The ancient system of natural healing offers holistic approaches for preventing and managing kidney disease. 

This article explores Ayurvedic perspectives on kidney health, herbal remedies, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications to support renal function.

Understanding Kidney Disease in Ayurveda

Kidney damage means the kidney are not doing their job of filtering out fluids and excess salt and detoxifying blood. Any kidney damage can lead to severe complications in the body, including cardiovascular issues, bone diseases, electrolyte imbalance, and many more. Kidney disease in Ayurveda is caused by a body dosha imbalance—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The Mutravaha Srotas (urinary tract) is linked with the kidneys, and its failure is most often caused by a buildup of toxins (Ama), aggravated Pitta (inflammatory conditions), or an accumulation of Kapha (blockages and stones). However, some experts believe that the kidney is linked with Vata dosha, which governs body movements like waste elimination. Imbalanced vata can also cause kidney diseases and issues. 

Imbalanced vata can lead to dehydration and dryness, causing fluid retention and an increased tendency to develop kidney stones. Excessive pitta, due to excessive acidity, can lead to kidney inflammation or UTIs. Kapha dosha imbalance can lead to sluggishness, causing impaired kidney function. All three doshas must remain balanced for optimum kidney health. 

Main functions of the kidney

Kidneys are an integral part of the human body and have many bodily functions, including:

• Filtration of Blood
• Maintaining Fluid and Electrolyte Balance
• Regulation of Blood Pressure
• Regulation of Erythropoiesis
• Maintaining Acid-Base Balance
• Metabolism of Vitamin D
• Detoxification
• Glucose Regulation
• Supporting the Immune System
• Maintaining Overall Homeostasis

Common Types of Kidney Disease

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): It is a progressive failure of kidney function over a long period, commonly brought on by diabetes, hypertension, or infection. Almost 35 million adults in the USA are at some stage of CKD. 
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) – Abrupt failure of the kidneys caused by dehydration, serious infection, or toxic exposure.
• Kidney Stones – This is an excessively common kidney disease where solid mineral accumulations occur in the kidneys and block the flow of urine.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) –  When common infections travel to the kidneys, if left untreated, they are called UTIs. Females are more prone to UTIs. 
• Nephrotic Syndrome – A condition caused due to heavy protein loss through urine.

Causes of Kidney Diseases

Although many genetic conditions, family history of kidney diseases, and polycystic kidney disease are some known causes of kidney disease, our everyday diet and health can lead to kidney damage. Some common causes of kidney damage are:

• Untreated diabeties
• High blood pressure
• Untreated infections such as UTIs
• Obeseity
• Dehydration
• Toxixation due to excessive consumption of processed food
• Smoking and Drugs
• Alchol consuptions
• Uderlying heart conditions
• Excessive consumption of NSAIDs

Ayurvedic Prevention Strategies for Kidney Health

Ayurveda believes in prevention, and when it comes to kidney function, prevention can save us from critical illness and CKD. Ayurveda recommends several practices to maintain optimal kidney function:

Panchakarma Therapy for full-body detox

Panchkarma is a known Ayurvedic way to eliminate body toxins and purify the body. This process can improve metabolism, reduce fluid retention, and balance the doshas for overall improved body functions. It can help reduce stress on our kidneys and improve renal function. Panchkarma therapies involve: 

• Virechana (Purgation Therapy) – This treatment involves the use of herbal laxatives to purify the liver and kidneys by expelling toxins from the body via the gastrointestinal system. It is especially useful for those with Pitta-related kidney ailments, such as inflammation and infection.
• Basti (Enema Therapy) – Basti is a therapy of enema that supports the balance of Vata dosha and renal function. Medicated oils and herbal decoctions are infused into the colon for the nourishment of kidneys, inflammation reduction, and waste product elimination. This therapy is found to be helpful in chronic kidney diseases and urinary disorders.
• Swedana (Herbal Steam Treatment) – This treatment consists of the use of herbal steam to allow the channels of the body to open up, increase circulation, and stimulate the elimination of toxins via sweat. Swedana treatment relaxes muscles covering the kidneys, decreasing stress-causing renal problems as well as improving the function of the kidneys overall.
• Raktamokshana (Bloodletting Therapy) – It is employed for cleansing the blood and lightening the load of the kidneys. It is more useful in those with elevated levels of creatinine, toxins within the blood, or inflammatory renal conditions.

Panchkarma therapies should be done under medical supervision at a safe and secure health care center. You can make at-home detoxification techniques a part of your daily routine. 

Read more about at-home detox: https://ayurvedamegastore.com/blog/detox-with-ayurveda-how-to-cleanse-your-body-naturally/

Herbal Support for Kidney Health

Ayurveda treasures many herbs known for their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. These herbs can be made part of your diet or taken as an Ayurvedic supplement to support kidney health naturally. The top herbs for kidney health include: 

• Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) – This Ayurvedic herb reduces water retention and renews kidney cells.
• Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) – It can maintain urinary tract health and reduce the chances of kidney stone formation. 
• Varun (Crataeva nurvala) – This herb is useful in removing urinary obstructions and curing issues related to infrequent urination and inconsistency.
• Palash (Butea monosperma) is an herb known as a kidney cleaner due to its potassium nitrate content. It is used to detoxify the kidneys and eliminate retained waste. 
• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) – It has astringent and anti-oxidant properties that help combat infections of the kidneys.

Ayurvedic Diet for Kidney Health

Diet plays a significant role in preventing kidney damage. A nutrient-rich diet including fresh produce can provide the essential vitamins and minerals required for the proper functioning of the body. A kidney-friendly diet can manage kidney disorders effectively and should include: 

• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables – Apples, berries, pomegranates, and cucumbers.
• Whole Grains – Brown rice, quinoa, and barley to support digestion.
• Legumes in Moderation – Moong dal (green gram) as it is easy to digest.
• Herbal Teas – Coriander and fennel teas aid kidney function.
• Healthy Fats – Ghee (clarified butter) in moderation can balance Pitta and support metabolism.

On the other hand, many food items included in our everyday diet can negatively affect kidney health. Foods to avoid for better kidney function include: 

• Too Much Salt: Excessive sodium consumption can aggravate kidney problems.
• Processed and Packaged Foods: They have preservatives that are toxic to the kidneys.
• Red Meat and High Protein: These can be taxing on the kidneys.
• Carbonated Drinks and Alcohol: They can dehydrate the body and impair kidney function.
• Oxalate-Dense Foods: Foods such as spinach, tomatoes, and nuts must be limited to avoid kidney stones.

Hydration for Kidney Health

Dehydration is one of the leading causes of kidney diseases. Due to our busy schedules, we often forget to keep ourselves hydrated and consume copious amounts of dehydrating items such as coffee, sugary drinks, processed foods, snacks, and more. Drinking enough water and liquids can flush out the toxins and kidney stones. Ayurveda suggests drinking 7-8 glasses of water or herbal teas made with coriander seeds or fennel for better absorption and improved digestion. 

Lifestyle Modifications

An active lifestyle can bring in many changes in physical and mental health and prevent many health issues related to the kidney. Ayurveda suggests spending at least 30 minutes to stay active and lifestyle modifications including the following: 

• Regular exercise, including Yoga and walking, to improve circulation and kidney function.
• Stress Management therapies like meditation and deep breathing can reduce stress-related kidney damage.
• Adequate Sleep can support kidney repair and detoxification.
• Avoid overuse of painkillers and antibiotics, which can harm the kidneys.

Managing Diabetes and Hypertension with Ayurveda To Support Kidney Health

Since diabetes and high blood pressure are leading causes of kidney disease, Ayurveda suggests the management of diabetes and hypertension with Ayurvedic herbs and supplements. Using herbs like Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium) and Neem can help you control blood sugar levels naturally without any side effects. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Arjuna help maintain stable blood pressure levels. 

Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Kidney Health

Adopting an Ayurvedic lifestyle can improve kidney and overall health. These home remedies work wonders for kidney health and can be easily practiced at home with everyday ingredients.

• Coriander and Cumin Water – Boil coriander and cumin seeds in water and consume it every day for kidney cleansing.
• Amla Juice – High in Vitamin C, it inhibits infection and maintains kidney function.
• Barley Water – A natural diuretic that can flush out toxins.
• Turmeric Milk – Decreases inflammation and enhances immunity.

Top Ayurvedic Supplements for Kidney Health

• • Zenius Kidney Care Capsule: These capsules can detoxify your body by flushing out all the toxins and are a great supplement to remove kidney stones naturally. 

• Planet Ayurveda Rencure Formula Capsule: It has anti-infective properties and is a helpful remedy for renal failure.

• Vedikroots Neem capsules: These are one of the best supplements that help reduce the acidic level in urine and purify and detoxify blood. 
• Life Aveda Chandraprabha Vati: A classical Ayurvedic medicine for urinary and kidney disorders.
• Jiva Ayurveda Gokshurvarunadi Kwath – This ayurvedic preparation reduces swelling and detoxifies kidneys.
• Baidynath Gokshuradi Guggulu – Supports kidney filtration and prevents stone formation.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a complete solution to the prevention and management of kidney disease through balancing the doshas, purification of the body, and stimulation of renal function using natural medicines. Through Ayurvedic eating habits, herbal supplements, yoga, and lifestyle changes, an individual can safeguard their kidneys and enjoy a healthier life. Yet, one must seek the advice of an Ayurvedic practitioner for customized treatment, particularly for long-term diseases.

Visit Ayurveda Megastore to explore the best Ayurvedic supplements for kidney health and embrace Ayurveda for healthy kidneys!