When you have kidney disease, it can be difficult to function normally on a day-to-day basis. Fortunately, several natural treatments and herbs are suitable for the kidneys. If you’re wondering which plants benefit the kidneys, three plants are known to help people with kidney issues.
Why Do Herbs Help With Kidney Problems?
Herbs are often touted as natural remedies for all ailments, and kidney problems are no exception. But why do herbs help with kidney problems? That’s a complicated question that can be answered in many ways depending on the cause of the problem.
If you have an infection or injury to your kidneys, or if they are not functioning correctly due to disease, herbal medicine can help fight off infection and increase the strength of the organ to perform its job.
And if you’re trying to avoid dialysis or surgery because your kidneys have been compromised, herbal medicines might allow them to heal without needing outside intervention. If a tumor is causing pressure on your kidneys, then herbal remedies can reduce swelling caused by these tumors so that the kidneys can function normally again.
What Herbs Are Good For The Kidney?
A few different herbs are traditionally said to be good for the kidneys. These include nettle, parsley, and dandelion.
1. Nettle is a diuretic that helps promote urine production and can help flush out the kidneys.
2. Parsley is also a diuretic and high in vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system.
3. Dandelion is a mild laxative, which can help keep things moving through the kidneys and prevent the buildup of toxins.
Cayenne pepper has also been shown to have some antioxidant properties, which may protect the kidneys from damage. The bottom line is that most herbal remedies do not have any scientific backing, so you should only take them if they agree with your body and if you don’t react badly to them.
Aside from herbs, some foods are considered suitable for kidney health. These include dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, which are high in antioxidants and can help keep your kidney function healthy. Fruits like berries are also beneficial because they’re high in vitamins and fiber.
Finally, olive oil is good for kidney health because it’s high in monounsaturated fats that may reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease.
Avoid These Foods If You Have Kidney Disease
If you have kidney disease, it’s essential to avoid foods that can make your condition worse. Here are some foods to avoid: asparagus, beets, beans (red or white), blackberries, cabbage, cherries, cranberries, figs, and raisins. Raw onions and garlic are also things you should stay away from.
If you’re unsure if certain foods are safe to eat, ask your doctor. Your physician can help you devise a diet that will be good for your kidneys. Many kidney disease patients have no problems eating most types of food as long as they stay away from those on the above list. However, others must stick to a stringent diet with only limited foods to eat and may need frequent monitoring by their doctor or dietitian.
