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Herbal Remedies for Renal Insufficiency

Renal Insufficiency (also referred to as kidney disease) affects roughly 12 million people in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If renal insufficiency is not treated, it can turn into renal failure. Renal insufficiency is generally treated with medication, but some believe herbal remedies might help.

  1. Kelp

    • Diuretics (sometimes referred to as water pills) help your kidneys produce urine. This is important because urine will flush toxins from your body and reduce the risk for kidney disease. Prescription diuretics come with a host of unfortunate side effects, including dehydration and an increased risk of kidney stones. However, herbal diuretics, such as kelp, do not have these side effects. Kelp is a type of algae and can be purchased in pill form at most health food stores.

    Astragalus membranaceus

    • Astragalus membranaceus in an herb native of Northern China. Traditionally, it has been used to treat night sweats, fatigue and diarrhea. At least three clinical studies have shown that Astragalus membranaceus significantly reduces proteinuria (a serum protein in the urine that accompanies most renal diseases), according to an article published in the "Annals Academy of Medicine Journal."

    Ligusticum

    • Ligusticum is an herb commonly found in China. According to an article published in the "Annals Academy of Medicine Journal," two clinical studies involving 82 patients found that ligusticum and its active component, sodium ferulate, can significantly improve the clinical condition of individuals suffering from progressive renal diseases.

    Warning

    • Although herbal remedies to treat renal insufficiency are promising, some research has shown that certain herbal remedies might actually cause acute renal failure and enhance the problems associated with renal insufficiency, according to a study published in the "Nephrology Nursing Journal." Moreover, some herbal remedies interfere with the other treatments that might be being administered (such as common medications). Consequently, it is important to consult your doctor before trying herbal remedies.

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