The kidneys may be small, but they have an enormous job to do. This small, bean-shaped organs located at the back of the abdomen are responsible for cleaning impurities and unwanted substances from the bloodstream and making sure that this waste leaves the body through the bladder during the course of urination. Because of this, kidneys play a vital role in overall health.
That is why supporting kidney health and function is so vital, too. Fortunately, there are many herbs out there which can help to support the kidneys and keep them working in good order so they can carry on their important functions. Read on to find out more about the eight best herbs to keep the kidneys healthy.
Chanca Piedra
This plant’s name means “stone breaker” in English and as the name suggests, is an effective and natural way to break up kidney stones into small pieces that can be more easily flushed from the system without doing damage to the urinary tract. It was commonly used for this purpose by indigenous peoples in South America but now is a mainstream remedy for this particular problem. (1)
Goldenrod
This beautiful yellow wildflower, a common sight along the road in the late summer, is more than just a pretty plant: it has been used by Native Americans for centuries to promote general urinary tract health and in particular to keep the kidneys cleansed and free of stones. (2)
Hydrangea Root
Another North American native, this plant was used first by Native Americans and then by European settlers to support the health of the kidneys and urinary tract. Hydrangea acts by helping the body to more effectively use calcium which can prevent kidney stones from forming in the first place. It is also known to have solvent properties which can help break down stones if they get a chance to form. (3)
Horsetail
Horsetails, a common kind of sedge that grows along the water, are great for kidney health because they are natural diuretics. The increased urine output that horsetails promote keeps the kidneys and bladder flushed out and makes it less likely that there will be any infections or stone formation in the urinary tract. (4)
Celery Root
Like horsetail, celery has long be valued for its diuretic properties. Again, this is important because an increased urine output can help to wash out bacteria as well as sediment that can otherwise settle in the kidneys and form stones. It is important when taking celery root (or any diuretic) to make sure to drink plenty of water so as to prevent dehydration. (5)
These herbs all act in different ways, but they are all excellent tonics to help support the health of the kidneys and the urinary tract in general. Because the kidneys play such an important role in removing impurities from the blood, keeping them healthy is one of the best ways to detoxify on a daily basis and promote the health of the entire body.
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