How to Treat Kidney Disease Naturally and Protect Kidneys?

Kidneys: Importance of Kidney Health

The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs that can be found right below the ribcage at the back of the body, one either side of the spine. They are vital organs in the urinary system and play a key role in maintaining chemical and fluid balance in the body.

Kidneys are mainly responsible for filtering blood to remove waste products, impurities and excess water. These waste products leave the kidneys, and later the body, as urine. This helps remove any toxins which could be harmful and keeps water, salts and minerals at manageable levels in the body.

Kidneys also produce hormones. These hormones control important bodily functions such as blood pressure regulation, red blood cell production, and vitamin D activation for healthy bones.

A person can become very unwell if their kidney health deteriorates. Damage to kidneys that stops them working as well as they should is also known as kidney disease.

What is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease is the term used to cover all levels of kidney impairment, from mild abnormalities that show no symptoms to life-threatening conditions that have a significant impact on daily life. Chronic kidney disease is the most common form of kidney disease, particularly in older people. It is a long-term condition meaning kidney function may continue to gradually decline over time.

Another form is kidney disease is polycystic kidney disease. This is a genetic disorder that causes multiple lumps or cysts to grow in the kidneys and prevents them from functioning properly. As this is an inherited disease, it can be passed on in some families.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease often does not cause any problems in the early stages as the body can generally cope with a reduction in kidney function up to a certain level. Many people do not experience any symptoms at all until the disease becomes more advanced.

Symptoms of kidney disease associated with more advanced stages of kidney disease include:

• Fatigue, tiredness and generally low energy levels
• Swollen feet, ankles or hands and puffiness around the eyes
• Muscle cramping, particularly in the legs
• Nausea, feeling sick or vomiting
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Lack of appetite or weight loss
• Dry, scaly skin that is particularly itchy
• Noticeable changes in how much urine is being passed (for example, lots at night)
• Blood in the urine

Some people with kidney disease will experience many or all of these symptoms at different times, while some experience none at all. Many of these symptoms can and do improve with treatment.

Causes of Kidney Disease

Many different factors can cause problems with the kidneys. It is often a combination of different problems that lead to chronic kidney disease. Some kidney conditions run in families.

Diabetes is another condition that causes kidney disease. With diabetes, the level of sugar in the blood is too high and prevents the kidneys from being able to clean the blood effectively.

Many other things can cause kidney health to decline, including medicines and drugs. Even readily available anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen can harm kidney health with long-term, regular use.

Kidney Diseases: Risk Factors

People with certain medical conditions have a far higher chance of developing kidney disease. These are known as risk factors. Some kidney disease risk factors to be aware of are:

• Diabetes or a family history of diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension) or a family history of it
• A family history of heart disease
• A family history of chronic kidney disease
• Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus

There are also additional risk factors that can make a person more likely to get kidney disease that are not related to medical conditions. These risk factors include:

• Older age
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Prolonged use of certain drugs or medications
• Chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Kidney stones

Chronic kidney disease is also more common in certain ethnic groups. While anyone can be affected by kidney disease, it is statistically more common in those of African, Hispanic, Asian or Native American descent.

How to Diagnose Kidney Disease?

A person in a high-risk group may be advised to have regular medical check-ups with a doctor. This helps to detect kidney disease early so effective treatment plans can be put into place.

A doctor will typically diagnose and monitor kidney disease using tests on blood and urine. The presence of certain substances in these is an indicator that kidney function is declining.

• Urine test. This tests for the presence of a protein called albumin. A healthy kidney does not let albumin pass from blood to urine, but a damaged kidney will.
• Blood test. This tests the amount of creatine in the blood. Creatine is a waste product that should be filtered out of the blood if the kidneys are functioning properly.

Blood test results are used to calculate Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). This is often referred to as a percentage of kidney function and gives an indication of overall kidney health. Other methods, such as ultrasound or kidney biopsy, can also show the extent of kidney damage.

Kidney Disease Treatment Options

There is always an underlying cause of kidney disease. Diabetes and high blood pressure are two of the main causes worldwide. Managing blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels are therefore usually the focus of most kidney disease treatment options.

There are different treatment routes for those who can benefit from natural treatment of kidney disease and those who need more urgent treatment for kidney failure.

Kidney Disease Medications

Kidney disease is not curable. However, careful control of the disease means symptoms can be managed. Certain medications can help to preserve kidney function and slow down the progression of kidney disease.

Kidney disease medications may also change over time. As kidney disease progresses, the kidneys become less efficient at filtering harmful products out of the blood. This can include medicines. Accumulation of these medicines in the blood can be damaging. Healthcare professionals may therefore stop, swap or reduce medications over time so the kidneys do not become overwhelmed.

Dialysis and Kidney Disease

The kidneys can be close to failing or have already failed in late-stage kidney disease. At this point it is likely they are down to less than 10-20% of their working capacity and artificial help will be needed to filter the blood. This process is known as dialysis.

Dialysis is one of the only options for late-stage kidney disease. Treatments available in these later stages include:

• Haemodialysis. This form of dialysis uses a machine to filter waste products and water out of the blood outside of the body.
• Peritoneal dialysis. This form of dialysis uses the membrane that lines the abdomen in place of the kidney to act as a filter for blood.
• Kidney transplant. In some cases, a donor kidney can be transplanted into the body to replace the diseased organ. Kidney transplants are not a viable option for everyone and there is a long waiting list worldwide.

Natural Treatment of Kidney Disease

If kidney disease is mild and detected early, it may be possible to protect kidneys naturally. Frequent urinary tract infections are a risk factor for kidney disease as they can cause infection which damages the kidneys. Many natural treatments or alternative remedies can be used to complement kidney medication and contribute to overall kidney health. Natural treatment of kidney disease can help reduce symptoms, avoid UTIs and improve kidney function.

A wide range of natural products are available and are designed to be supplements to support healthy kidney function and improve quality of life. Many of these products contain herbal and botanical ingredients traditionally believed to offer natural kidney protection and support kidney health alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Natural Products for Kidney Disease Treatment

Natural products have become a popular option for people looking to support kidney function and manage early stages of kidney disease. These products are often derived from plants, fruits, and roots traditionally used in herbal medicine. They are available in the form of teas, capsules, powders, and liquid extracts.

Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements are widely used to support kidney health. They contain plant-based compounds known to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These supplements aim to reduce kidney strain, encourage proper filtration, and support urinary tract function. Some are used to manage fluid retention or help cleanse the kidneys naturally.

Kidney Detox Products

Kidney detox products are formulated to promote natural cleansing of the kidneys. These products typically combine herbs and natural extracts that may help flush toxins, reduce kidney burden, and improve overall kidney efficiency. They are often part of a broader body detox routine and are used periodically to maintain kidney health.

Functional Beverages and Teas

Herbal teas and functional drinks support hydration and kidney function. Proper hydration is essential for the kidneys to filter waste effectively. Herbal teas with ingredients traditionally used for kidney support, such as dandelion or nettle, are often consumed as a mild and natural way to promote kidney wellness.

Natural Support Formulas

Many natural kidney support formulas include a blend of various herbs, vitamins, and minerals. These combinations are designed to maintain kidney health, support natural filtration processes, and reduce the impact of oxidative stress. They may be used regularly to complement a kidney-friendly lifestyle and diet.

Natural products offer a simple and accessible way to support kidney health, especially when used alongside proper hydration, balanced nutrition, and medical guidance.

How Natural Products Support Kidney Health

Natural products support kidney health through several biological and functional mechanisms. They are used to maintain proper kidney function, slow disease progression, and promote detoxification. Their effects are generally linked to improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and aiding waste removal.

• Promoting Urine Production: Many natural products contain mild diuretics that help increase urine flow. This process supports the kidneys by flushing out excess fluids, waste, and toxins from the body. By enhancing natural urination, these products reduce the concentration of harmful substances in the kidneys and lower the risk of stone formation and infections.
• Reducing Inflammation: Inflammation is a major contributor to kidney damage. Certain plant-based compounds help reduce inflammation in kidney tissues. By limiting the inflammatory response, these products help protect nephrons - the filtering units of the kidneys - from damage. This is especially important for individuals with chronic kidney conditions or those at risk of developing kidney disease.
• Supporting Antioxidant Defense: Oxidative stress harms kidney cells and accelerates kidney decline. Natural products often contain antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and support cellular health. This protective action helps preserve kidney function and may slow the progression of kidney disease.
• Enhancing Blood Flow to the Kidneys: Proper blood circulation is essential for effective kidney filtration. Some natural ingredients are known to support vascular health and improve blood flow. Better circulation means that the kidneys receive more oxygen and nutrients, which supports their ability to filter waste effectively.
• Assisting in Natural Detoxification: Natural kidney support products aid the body's detox process by enhancing the kidneys' natural ability to remove metabolic waste. By reducing the buildup of toxins and supporting proper fluid balance, these products help maintain long-term kidney health.

Used consistently, natural products can complement medical treatment and lifestyle changes for better kidney function.

Common Ingredients in Natural Kidney Support Products

Natural kidney support products often combine several ingredients known for their ability to assist kidney function, reduce inflammation, and promote detoxification. These ingredients come from herbs, fruits, roots, and minerals commonly used in traditional and modern herbal medicine.

1. Dandelion Root

• Acts as a natural diuretic
• Helps flush excess fluids and toxins
• Supports liver and kidney function

2. Nettle Leaf

• Rich in antioxidants
• Reduces inflammation in urinary tract and kidneys
• Promotes healthy urine flow

3. Cranberry Extract

• Helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Supports overall urinary system health
• Commonly included to protect against bacterial buildup

4. Parsley Leaf

• Mild diuretic effects
• Helps eliminate waste and salt from the body
• Traditionally used to support kidney cleansing

5. Turmeric

• Contains curcumin with anti-inflammatory properties
• Reduces kidney inflammation
• Protects against oxidative stress

6. Astragalus Root

• Supports immune response
• Promotes kidney tissue health
• Helps improve kidney function in early-stage disease

7. Chanca Piedra

• Traditionally used to support kidney stone prevention
• May help break down calcium deposits
• Promotes smoother urinary flow

8. Marshmallow Root

• Soothes the urinary tract lining
• Reduces inflammation
• Encourages proper urine flow and waste removal

9. Ginger

• Boosts circulation and digestion
• Has anti-inflammatory effects
• May support kidney filtration processes

10. Magnesium

• Essential for electrolyte balance
• Helps prevent calcium buildup in kidneys
• Supports muscle and nerve function including bladder control

How to Protect Kidneys Naturally and Prevent Kidney Disease?

Leading a healthy lifestyle can help prevent many causes of kidney disease, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. The following measures are recommended for natural kidney protection:

• Eat a healthy diet. This means drinking a lot of water and eating predominantly nutrient-dense foods which are low in fat, salt and sugar but high in fibre.
• Exercise regularly. Exercise is key to lowering blood pressure and keeping the heart healthy as well as offering a means of keeping body weight under control.
• Quit smoking. Stopping smoking improves heart health, blood pressure and circulation as well as improving overall health and life expectancy.
• Take care with over-the-counter medications. Too many painkillers that contain aspirin or ibuprofen, for example, can cause damage to the kidneys.
• Reduce alcohol intake. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease which are kidney disease risk factors themselves.

Kidney disease can worsen over time and may lead to life-threatening consequences if left untreated. By taking steps to maintain kidney health naturally, kidney disease can be controlled.

Reference

1. National Kidney Foundation: About Chronic Kidney Disease
2. Healthline: Kidney Health and Kidney Disease Basics
3. WebMD: What Are the Treatments for Kidney Disease?
4. HarvardHealth: Protect your kidneys
5. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease