Diamond Author
If you've been told you're at risk for or already have kidney disease, it will mean a lot of changes in what you eat and drink. It can also be a problem with some supplements, while others may help improve kidney function. Knowing which is which is key to protecting yourself.
Beet Greens: There is debate about how helpful beet greens are for those dealing with renal problems. They are high in potassium, which can exacerbate the condition. This is true even in food amounts, so use caution with this supplement. If your blood potassium is too high, you may need to avoid it completely. They are also high in oxalates, so if you are prone to oxalate kidney stones, skip the beet greens.
Corn Silk: More studies need to be done, but traditional herbal practitioners have used it to soothe kidney infections and stones. Most people can tolerate corn silk, though there are a few medical conditions that can have problems. If your blood pressure is too high or too low, corn silk can make the problem worse. It may lower blood sugar levels and it can lower blood potassium levels.
Dandelion: If you are having trouble with water retention, dandelion root may be useful for you. This common weed was actually so valuable to the European settlers of North America, they carefully brought the seeds to plant here. The young leaves can be eaten in salads and older leaves can be cooked like spinach. The flowers were turned into dandelion wine while the roots were saved to be used as a diuretic.
Nettle: Like dandelion, nettle may act as a diuretic, helping deal with water retention. It is often used as a food when cooked and many consider it safe enough for children and pregnant women. Some experts argue that nettle can cause miscarriage, so caution is advised.
Pumpkin Seeds: While the most common use for pumpkin seeds is BPH (benign prostate hypoplasia), they may be helpful if you suffer from kidney stones. If you are taking a diuretic, avoid taking pumpkin seeds, as it may have the same quality.
Uva Ursi: Traditional use of this herb is for dealing with kidney infections and urinary tract problems. Most people should tolerate it fairly well, but it should not be given to children, pregnant or lactating women. It may also cause your retinas to thin, so if that is already a problem you may want to avoid it.
All of these remedies should be discussed with your doctor before you start taking them, to make sure they are right for you. Tell the doctor about your concerns, any other medical conditions you may have and everything you are taking, including prescriptions and supplements. That way you may be able to avoid any side effects or drug/herb interactions.
About this Author
My eBook the Complete Guide to Complementary Remedies, has information from all of my mini books, plus much more. Topics include:
Arthritis: Page Forty-three
Diabetes: Page Forty-seven
Kidney Problems: Page Fifty-seven
Skin Care: Page Eighty-seven
Performance Enhancement: Page One hundred eleven
Our site has information on many topics and my five eBooks about herbal remedies. You can also download my free report, the Top Ten Herbs. It details ten popular herbs, their uses, side effects, precautions and drug interactions. If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me: mary@healing-home-remedies.com
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