In This Guide
Vrikka Roga: Ayurvedic Kidney Care
In Ayurveda, kidneys are the root of Meda Vaha Srotas (Fat channels). Protecting them is not just about filtration; it's about balancing the body's entire fluid & fat metabolism.
The Silent Guardians
Your kidneys filter 200 liters of blood daily. In Ayurveda, kidney issues arise from the vitiation of Vata (dryness/degeneration) and Kapha (blockages/stones).
Typical signs of kidney distress include water retention (edema), dark urine, and persistent fatigue. Ayurveda treats this by focusing on Mutrala (diuretic) herbs that flush toxins without straining the nephrons.
The "Renal 4" Herbs: Clinical Perspective
1. Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa)
"The one that makes you new again."
Scientific Mechanism: Clinical studies show Punarnava contains punarnavine, an alkaloid that protects nephrons from toxicity. It is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it flushes water but keeps essential electrolytes.
2. Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris)
"The Urinary Tract Tonic."
Scientific Mechanism: Known for its lithotriptic (stone-breaking) activity. It increases urine volume and prevents the supersaturation of calcium oxalate, reducing recurrent stone formation.
3. Varun (Crataeva Nurvala)
"The Stone Breaker."
Scientific Mechanism: Contains lupeol, which deactivates the enzyme glycolate oxidase, reducing the production of oxalates (the main component of kidney stones).
The Ayurvedic Renal Diet
Eat Freely (Pathya)
- Gourds: Bottle gourd (Lauki), Ridge Gourd (Turai). Excellent diuretics.
- Grains: Old Rice, Barley (Jo). Barley water is the #1 kidney detox drink.
- Spices: Coriander, Cumin, Fennel (Cooling spices).
- Fruits: Apples, Berries, Pineapple (Low potassium).
Strongly Avoid (Apathya)
- High Sodium: Pickles, processed snacks, papad.
- Heavy Proteins: Red meat, organ meats (High metabolic load).
- Oxalates: Spinach, Tomato seeds, Chocolate (Cause stones).
- Caffeine/Alcohol: Severely dehydrating for kidneys.
Remedy for Stones (Ashmari)
Kulthi (Horse Gram) Soup Protocol
Horse gram is the most potent lithotriptic agent in Ayurveda. It dissolves crystals like hot water dissolves sugar.
Soak 1 cup of Horse Gram overnight in 4 cups of water.
Boil it the next morning until the water reduces to 1 cup.
Strain and mix with a pinch of Rock Salt (Sendha Namak).
Drink warm on an empty stomach for 14 days.
"Doctors said dialysis was inevitable. I started Punarnava decoction and the strict 'Low Protein' Ayurvedic diet. In 4 months, my levels normalized and I have my energy back."
Key Result
Creatinine Reduced to 1.1
Common Questions
Scientific References & Sources
- Boerhaavia diffusa (Punarnava) in renal disordersView Study
- Effect of Tribulus terrestris on kidney stonesView Study
Disclaimer: This content is medically reviewed by Dr. Arti (BAMS) but should not replace professional medical advice.