Ayurvedic treatment for kidney diseases involves renoprotective herbal medications, detox therapies, and lifestyle adjustments that support kidney function and manage chronic conditions effectively.
The kidneys are vital organs for filtering waste, balancing electrolytes, and maintaining fluid levels in the body.
Chronic kidney diseases (CKD) and kidney failure are increasingly common due to factors like diabetes, hypertension, and lifestyle disorders.
Ayurvedic treatment for kidney diseases offers a time-tested approach rooted in natural healing, focusing on addressing the root cause and promoting overall well-being.
This article gives insight into Ayurvedic strategies for managing kidney diseases and improving quality of life.
Role of ayurvedic Treatments in Kidney diseases
Ayurveda provides preventive and prophylactic measures to avoid the onset and check for further progression of the condition to further stages of CKD.
Ayurveda emphasizes balancing the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) to ensure optimal organ function. Kidney diseases are often associated with imbalances in Kapha and Vata doshas. Ayurvedic treatments focus on restoring balance through:
- Herbal Medicines: Specific herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Varun are known to support kidney health.
- Panchakarma Therapies: Detoxification therapies help eliminate toxins (ama) and rejuvenate kidney function.
- Rasayana (Rejuvenation Therapies): These therapies prevent disease progression and strengthen kidney tissues.
- Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Tailored recommendations help reduce the burden on kidneys and support recovery.
Aim of Ayurvedic treatments for Kidney diseases
The primary aim of Ayurvedic treatments for kidney diseases is to:
- Address the Root Cause: Treat underlying imbalances in the doshas.
- Enhance Kidney Function: Improve filtration and detoxification capabilities.
- Prevent Progression: Delay the onset of complications and the need for invasive interventions like dialysis.
- Support Overall Health: Improve energy, immunity, and quality of life through holistic care.
What are the different types of kidney diseases?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) results from progressive and irreversible loss of kidney function.
It may progress over time without any symptoms until the function of the kidneys becomes very minimal. Kidney failure is considered the most serious outcome of CKD.
Per year, over 1 lakh patients are diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease in India.
Albuminuria is a hallmark of progressive chronic kidney disease and the earliest marker of glomerular disease, generally appearing before the reduction in GFR.
It manifests initially as a biochemical abnormality; eventually, the kidney’s excretory, metabolic, and endocrine dysfunctions lead to the development of clinical symptoms and signs of renal failure, which are referred to as uremia.
The disease has multiple etiologies and forms a vast clinical spectrum of symptomatology.
CKD is a global threat to health in general and to developing countries in particular because treatment therapy is expensive and should be continued lifelong.
In most cases, CKD is initially asymptomatic, and the diagnosis is often made based on routine investigations.
Once symptomatic, it clinically presents as oliguria/ anuria, severe anemia, renal edema, uremic vomiting, etc.
The available treatment modalities in conventional systems of medicine are still evolving, and hemodialysis and renal transplantation are the final steps.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a syndrome characterized by the rapid loss of renal function resulting in the accumulation of end products of nitrogen metabolism (urea and creatinine) and/or decreased urine output.
Acute kidney injury/failure is a result of renal or extra-renal surgery, bacterial infection, and nephrotoxicity and is more commonly seen in hospitalized populations.
It is known to be a prime independent risk factor for mortality, with mortality rates of up to 10%.
This condition removes the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products, balance fluids, and regulate electrolytes in the body.
AKI is often reversible with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, but delays in care may lead to chronic kidney issues.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form in the kidneys when there is a disbalance between water handling and solute clearance by the kidneys.
This results in urine becoming concentrated, allowing these substances to crystallize.
They can be clinically categorized into surgically active and medically active varieties.
The surgically active stone disease presents with severe pain, hematuria, or complicated urinary tract infection (UTI) and may require endoscopic or surgical intervention.
On the other hand, multiple, recurrent, or growing stones are called medically active stones, often necessitating metabolic workup to elucidate an underlying cause.
They can vary in size and cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract.
Common symptoms include sharp pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, nausea, and frequent urination.
Factors such as dehydration, diet, and genetics increase the risk of kidney stones.
Treatment ranges from increased hydration and pain management to surgical intervention in severe cases.
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is a kidney disease characterized by inflammation of the tiny kidney filters (glomeruli).
The excess fluid and waste that glomeruli remove from the bloodstream exit the body as urine.
It can occur as a primary kidney condition or as a result of systemic diseases like lupus or infections.
Symptoms may include puffiness of the face, swelling in the legs, reduced urine output, blood in urine, high blood pressure, and even kidney failure. Early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term damage.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
It is an inherited genetic disorder characterized by the presence of innumerable cysts of varying sizes in both kidneys.
The patients are usually asymptomatic till 4th to 5th decade of life.
The usual presentation is hypertension, abdominal discomfort, and hematuria, which can be detected by the feeling of abdominal mass on ultrasonography (USG).
Complications like urinary tract infection (UTI), cyst infections, cyst hemorrhage, renal calculi (commonly uric acid), and malignancy.
The renal cysts increase slowly over many years, and the renal function deteriorates gradually.
Pathologically, the kidneys are enlarged and can reach large sizes; the surface is riddled with various cysts.
The diagnosis is confirmed by ultrasonography, which shows enlarged kidneys with multiple cysts in both kidneys.
The number of cysts increases with the age of the patients.
Cysts in the liver, pancreas, and epididymis support the diagnosis of PKD. CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are more sensitive in identifying small cysts but are often unnecessary for diagnosis, as USG can confirm.
A minimum of 6 cysts in each kidney should be visible on the ultrasonogram.
Diabetic Nephropathy
Diabetic Nephropathy is a type of kidney damage resulting from long-term, uncontrolled diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste efficiently. Early symptoms include protein in the urine, swelling in the ankles or feet, and increased blood pressure. Managing blood sugar and blood pressure levels through diet, exercise, and medication is essential to slow the progression of the disease and prevent kidney failure.
Hypertensive Nephropathy
Hypertensive Nephropathy refers to kidney damage caused by chronic high blood pressure.
Elevated blood pressure can narrow and weaken the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to function correctly.
Over time, this can lead to scarring, kidney failure, or an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Symptoms may not appear in the early stages but can include protein in the urine, swelling, and fatigue as the condition progresses. Controlling blood pressure through medication, diet, and exercise is critical for managing this condition.
Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis)
Pyelonephritis is a type of bacterial infection that affects the kidneys, typically arising from a urinary tract infection (UTI) that spreads upwards. Symptoms include fever, chills, back or flank pain, nausea, and frequent or painful urination. If untreated, it can lead to permanent kidney damage or bloodstream infections (sepsis). Treatment usually involves antibiotics and, in severe cases, hospitalization for intravenous medication. Staying hydrated and promptly treating UTIs can help prevent kidney infections
What are the pros and cons of Ayurvedic treatment for kidney diseases?
Pros of Ayurvedic Treatment for Kidney Diseases.
- Addresses the root cause
- Focuses on prevention of progression to end-stage
- Minimal side effects compared to conventional systems of medicine when diagnosed and administered correctly.
- Customized treatment plans based on individual needs.
- Supports long-term wellness
Cons of Ayurvedic Treatment for Kidney Diseases
- A strict diet and lifestyle regime is necessary during the treatment course.
- Longer treatment duration compared to allopathic medicine.
- Unable to meet emergency conditions like severe acute kidney failure.
Symptoms of kidney diseases
The early stages of Kidney Disease often have no noticeable symptoms and are usually identified through specific tests that measure kidney function (stages 1-3).
As the disease progresses, kidney failure can cause various symptoms, referred to as the “uremic state,” which can affect almost any part of the body. However, the severity of symptoms doesn’t always match the severity of kidney damage. Here is a list of common symptoms:
- Swelling (edema) in the feet, ankles, or hands
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Reduced urine output
- Blood in the urine (haematuria)
- Foamy or bubbly urine
- Persistent itching
- Loss of appetite and nausea
- Difficulty concentrating
- Heart and circulation problems
- Chest pain and heart issues
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Mouth and gum problems
- Uremic frost
- Rare complications (e.g., hiccups, ascites)
- Nervous system and mental health effects (neuropsychiatric symptoms)
- Nerve issues (tingling, numbness, weakness, itching, restless leg syndrome)
- Mood and behavior changes
- Red, irritated eyes (uremic red eyes)
- Calcium deposits in the eye (band keratopathy)
- Anaemia
- Bleeding problems
- Renal osteodystrophy (hyper parathyroid bone disease, osteomalacia, adynamic bone disease, calciphylaxis)
- Growth retardation (in children)
- Pulmonary edema
- Pleural effusion and pleurisy
- Metabolic acidosis
- Chronic malnutrition
- Sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, azoospermia, menstrual irregularities)
Causes of Kidney Diseases
Kidney diseases can result from various factors, including:
- Primary Diseases: Glomerulonephritis, IgA nephropathy, Glomerulosclerosis
- Secondary Diseases: Diabetes and Hypertension.
- Tubular Diseases: Reflux nephropathy, obstructive uropathy
- Vascular Diseases: Hypertensive nephrosclerosis, Ischemic nephropathy, vasculitis
- Cystic Diseases: Polycystic kidney disease,
- Infections: Recurrent urinary tract infections.
- Hemolytic anemia
- Microangiopathy
- Medications and Toxins: Long-term use of NSAIDs, certain antibiotics, and exposure to heavy metals.
- Dehydration: Chronic low fluid intake.
- Obstruction: Kidney stones or enlarged prostate blocking urine flow.
Risk factors of Kidney Diseases
- Aging
- Family history of CKD
- Smoking
- Reduced renal mass
- Racial factors
- Low birth weight
- Diabetes
- Poor glycemic control
- Hypertension-uncontrolled
- Infections
- Obstructions
- Drug-toxicity
- Hypersensitivity
- Proteinuria
- Metabolic disorders
- Anemia
- Acidosis
When to see a doctor
It is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent swelling in extremities.
- Difficulty or pain during urination.
- Changes in urine color, nature, or output.
- Severe fatigue and difficulty concentrating.
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control.
Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis of Kidney Diseases
Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Simplified Points
Early Detection Challenges:
- CKD often remains undetected until it reaches advanced stages.
- Strong clinical suspicion and timely investigations are essential for early diagnosis.
Key Diagnostic Markers:
- Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) or markers of kidney damage confirm CKD.
- Serum Creatinine:
- Poor indicator of kidney function; significant increase occurs only after GFR falls below 50%.
- Estimated GFR (eGFR):
- Calculated using formulas like Cockcroft-Gault, which are simple and reliable.
Markers of Kidney Damage:
- Proteinuria: Excess protein in the urine.
- Microscopic Haematuria:
- More than five red blood cells (RBCs) per high-power field in urine suggests kidney damage.
- Dysmorphic RBCs and acanthocytes often indicate glomerular disease.
- Urinary Casts: Proteinuria and cellular casts indicate renal parenchymal disease.
Urinary Concentration Issues:
- Fixed urinary specific gravity (~1.010) and osmolality (~290 mOsm/kg) suggest impaired kidney ability to concentrate or dilute urine.
Blood Test Findings:
- Electrolytes and Metabolic Abnormalities:
- When GFR drops below 25 ml/min, there is low serum calcium and high phosphorus levels.
- High alkaline phosphatase (ALP) indicates bone involvement.
- Reduced serum bicarbonate due to metabolic acidosis.
- High anion gap metabolic acidosis in severe CKD due to acid retention.
- Potassium Levels:
- Usually typical until advanced CKD (stage 4).
- Hyperkalemia can occur early with excessive dietary Potassium, potassium-sparing drugs, or distal tubular dysfunction.
Imaging Findings:
- Kidney Size: Smaller kidneys detected via ultrasound in longstanding CKD.
- Skeletal Changes:
- X-rays may reveal:
- Renal rickets in children.
- Osteomalacia, osteitis fibrosa, or osteosclerosis in adults.
- By combining clinical symptoms, lab tests, and imaging, CKD can be identified and classified for appropriate management.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Kidney Diseases
Ayurvedic treatment for kidney diseases depends on the stage of the disease.
Correcting the metabolic processes and stimulating metabolic fire is the first step towards healing.
Early stages are easily manageable with Ayurvedic renoprotective herbs and therapies; however, in a progressive stage, supportive management can be possible through Ayurveda.
According to Ayurveda, chronic kidney disease is a disease of Mutravaha Srotas.
Though all three Doshas are involved in the disease, Kapha is the prime culprit responsible for blocking microvessels and developing microangiopathy.
Vata is responsible for the degeneration of the structure of the kidney. According to Ayurvedic principles of managing the disease, Rasayana drugs can prevent and repair tissue damage because they can improve tissue quality and increase tissue resistance.
It increases urine filtration, reduces swelling, and overcomes urination difficulty.
On the other hand, the blockage can be removed by drugs that possess scraping properties.
Treatments like avapeedaka snehapans and niruha basti with renoprotective decoctions have also been beneficial.
Herbs and formulations beneficial in kidney diseases
Herbs:
- Gokshura
- Punarnava
- Varuna
- Bhumi Amalaki
- Moringa
- Giloy
Formulations
- Gokshuradi guggulu
- Chandraprabha vati
- Prabhakar vati
- Shiva gutika
- Narayan churna
- Punarnava mandoor
- Shilajit
Note: These herbs and formulations are to be used under medical supervision only
Ayurvedic Tips to Improve Kidney Functions
- Avoid suppressing urinary urges at any time.
- Do not indulge in excessive exercise.
- Limit excessive intake of fish and fish products.
- Avoid high-potency medications
- Do not indulge in excessive use of concentrated alcohol.
- Avoid prolonged time sitting and moving in a spread vehicle.
- Cut down your intake of highly processed foods, which are loaded with sugar and sodium.
- Drink adequate water and increase levels of physical activity.
- Unhealthy food choices and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of kidney disease, with obesity being a significant contributing factor.
Tips for those diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease
- Take proper medication for hypertension and diabetes
- Check for anemia frequently by monitoring hemoglobin levels and correcting it
- Take calcium supplements as per the doctor’s advice
- Reduce salt and water intake after being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease
- Reduce protein intake after being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease
- Use Ayurveda medication if any swellings in feet or face as per Ayurveda physician
- Monitor Potassium and phosphate quarterly along with hemoglobin, urea, and creatinine in blood after being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease
- Hyperkalemia is life-threatening, so limit the use of green vegetables in your diet
- Be active and fit always, and practice Yoga and meditation.
- Practice Yoga pranayama and ask for suitable poses to Ayurveda and yoga expert
Dos and Don’ts
Dos:
- Improve your hydration levels; drink water whenever you feel the urge.
- Aim for 8-10 glasses daily, but adjust according to your body’s needs and climate.
- Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Include kidney-friendly options like watermelon, cucumber, ginger, and coriander.
- Engage in moderate activities like Yoga, brisk walking, or swimming to improve circulation and maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat at regular intervals, chew your food thoroughly, and avoid overeating.
- Panchakarma, a detoxification therapy in Ayurveda, can help eliminate toxins and rejuvenate the kidneys.
- Control your blood pressure and blood sugar.
- Practice Yoga and meditation regularly to get down and lose weight.
- Take less salt and saturated fat.
- Take good water(Iron, arsenic-free) for drinking and cooking.
- Take organic fruits, vegetables, and grains.
- Avoid fertilizers and pesticides in your kitchen garden.
- Treat chronic UTI and practice a safe sex life.
Don’ts:
- Processed and packaged foods are often high in sodium, sugar, and preservatives, which can strain the kidneys.
- Excessive protein, especially from red meat, can overburden the kidneys.
- Reduce consumption of carbonated drinks and artificial juices.
- Minimise added salt in your meals and opt for natural flavor enhancers like herbs and spices.
- Both can dehydrate the body and strain kidney function.
- Seek medical advice if you experience symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination.
Ayurvedic Diet for Kidney Diseases
Diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining kidney health. According to Ayurveda, food should be fresh, seasonal, and balanced to support the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Below are dietary recommendations:
- Consume the appropriate kinds and quantities of protein. A low protein intake might weaken your skin, hair, and nails. However, consuming too much protein might increase kidney damage and strain them. This occurs because your kidneys filter waste materials produced when your body utilizes protein. You may need to change your protein intake to maintain your health and feel best.
- You should consume a certain quantity of protein based on your health, activity level, and body size. Your physician and nutritionist may advise you to consume less or other kinds of protein.
- Find out from your physician and dietitian how much protein you should consume and which kinds are best for you.
- Select the appropriate fats. To maintain your health, you must include some fat in your diet. Heart problems and weight gain can result from having too much fat. Reduce the amount of fat in your meals and, where possible, substitute healthy fats, such as olive oil.
- Selecting the appropriate fats is also a component of the DASH diet, which promotes heart health.
- Overconsumption of carbohydrates might result in weight gain. Whole grains and nutritious carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables are the most excellent options if you have renal disease. Sugar, honey, hard candies, soft drinks, and other sugary beverages are unhealthy carbohydrates.
- You might also need to keep a close eye on how many carbohydrates you consume if you have diabetes. You may get additional information about the carbohydrates in your diet and how they impact your blood sugar levels from your dietician.
- Consume the appropriate number of calories. Calories provide your body with energy, much like gasoline. Your diet’s protein, fat, and carbohydrates provide calories. Your age, gender, body size, and degree of activity all affect how many calories you require.
- You should change the number of calories you consume to maintain a healthy weight. You may determine how many calories you should consume each day with the assistance of your physician and nutritionist.
- Opt for a low-sodium diet. Salt is an inevitable thing in everyone’s diet. However, people with kidney disease must restrict salt intake. Though salt plays several crucial roles in how your body functions, you may maintain a healthy salt level by eating foods that naturally contain it.
- Consuming packaged meals and seasoning food with salt might result in an excessive sodium intake.
- An excessive amount of salt can cause thirst and cause your body to retain water, which can cause edema and increase blood pressure. Your kidneys may sustain more significant damage, and your heart may have to work harder.
- When cooking, add flavor using herbs and spices. When preparing or eating meals, avoid adding salt.
- Instead of using canned veggies, go for fresh or frozen ones. Drain and rinse canned veggies to get rid of excess salt.
- Eat less acidic foods. Limit your intake of foods that raise acidity, such as vinegar, tomatoes, and fermented foods.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a disciplined lifestyle to maintain kidney health. Here are some tips:
- Exercise regularly. Practice yoga poses such as Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist) and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), which improve kidney function by stimulating blood flow.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Control stress levels. High stress can affect kidney health. Incorporate meditation, mindfulness, and Ayurvedic therapies like Shirodhara for relaxation.
- Limit exposure to toxins and unnecessary medications. Avoid smoking and exposure to environmental pollutants.
Conclusion
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to maintaining and improving kidney health through herbal remedies, panchakarma therapies, and dietary and lifestyle interventions.
While it cannot replace medical treatments for advanced kidney conditions, it can be a complementary approach to prolong wellness. Regular health check-ups, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and incorporating Ayurvedic lifestyle practices can significantly contribute to well-being. They can help reduce the risk of kidney-related ailments.
FAQ
Is Ayurvedic medicine suitable for the kidney?
Yes, Ayurvedic medicine can help support kidney health by addressing imbalances in the doshas and promoting detoxification. However, always take the advice of an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any treatment.
Can Ayurveda cure kidney failure?
No, Ayurveda cannot cure kidney failure, but it may help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease when used alongside conventional treatments.
Can Ayurvedic Treatment Help to Stop Dialysis?
No, Ayurvedic treatment cannot help stop dialysis. However, it can prolong the time before dialysis becomes necessary by supporting kidney function naturally.
References
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3361922/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5123830/
https://www.jpmhh.org/html-article/22126
https://www.cdc.gov/kidney-disease/prevention/index.html
https://ayushdhara.in/index.php/ayushdhara/article/download/294/232/774
