What Are Kidney-Cleansing Herbs and Do They Work?

A poor diet, chronic stress, and limited physical activity can impair your health, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish. 

For some, a cleanse seems like the perfect solution to rid the body of toxins and restore vitality. They believe that by “cleaning” the body, it will function more efficiently and have a positive impact on overall health.

As the kidneys are responsible for filtering and eliminating waste from the body, it’s no surprise that kidney-cleansing herbs are the next port of call for those looking to detoxify. But do these herbs actually work, and are they necessary?

There’s no scientific evidence to support the idea of a kidney cleanse. Our kidneys are designed to efficiently filter and remove waste and toxins from the body (1). They do this by constantly working with the liver, lungs, skin, and digestive system to maintain a healthy balance of fluids and electrolytes in our blood.

There are many herbs that can support overall kidney health and function, but they shouldn’t be seen as a quick fix for detoxification.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Natural Herbs For Kidney Cleansing?

Kidney-cleansing herbs are commonly associated with supporting kidney function. These herbs have specific properties or nutrients that may help the kidneys do their natural job of filtering and detoxifying the blood.

These herbs may have the following qualities:

• Antioxidant properties to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress on the kidneys
• Diuretic properties to increase urine output and flush out toxins
• Anti-inflammatory properties to reduce kidney inflammation and improve function

As a standalone treatment, these herbs may not have a significant impact on kidney health. However, when they’re incorporated into a well-rounded healthy lifestyle, they can support the kidneys and contribute to overall wellness.

Do Kidney-Cleansing Herbs Work?

The concept of kidney-cleansing herbs isn’t strongly supported by scientific evidence (2). The kidneys naturally perform the function of filtering and detoxifying the blood without the need for external cleanses.

While some herbs are traditionally used to support kidney health due to their diuretic or antioxidant properties, they shouldn’t be viewed as a method for cleansing the kidneys.

Herbs such as milk thistle, stinging nettle, and Java tea may offer supportive benefits, such as promoting urine production or reducing oxidative stress (3, 5, 6), but these effects are not equivalent to a “cleanse”. It’s important to approach these herbs as being complementary to a healthy lifestyle rather than as standalone solutions for kidney health.

You should always consult a healthcare provider before you use herbal remedies, particularly if you have existing kidney conditions or are taking medications, to ensure safe and appropriate use.

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What Are the Best Kidney-Cleansing Herbs?

Below, we’ll explore these herbs, their origins, what they do, and how they are typically consumed. 

Those with existing kidney conditions or on medications should always consult a healthcare provider before they introduce herbs into their regimen. 

1. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Milk thistle is a flowering herb that is native to southern Europe and parts of Asia. Known primarily for supporting liver health, its active compound, silymarin, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may also benefit the kidneys (3).

What It Does 

Milk thistle helps reduce oxidative stress and protects kidney cells from toxin-induced damage, such as that which is caused by certain medications such as chemotherapy drugs (4).

How to Use It 

Milk thistle is most commonly consumed as capsules, teas, or tinctures. Standardized supplements that contain silymarin are widely available, although it’s best to follow dosage guidance from a healthcare provider.

2. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Stinging nettle grows in temperate regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Once detoxified through drying or cooking, this plant is valued for its ability to support urinary function (5).

What It Does 

Stinging nettle has mild diuretic properties, which may help the kidneys flush out excess fluids and metabolic byproducts. It’s also nutrient-rich, containing antioxidants, iron, magnesium, and vitamins that support overall health (5). 

How to Use It 

The leaves and roots are typically consumed as teas, capsules, or extracts. Fresh nettles can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable. However, harvesting them yourself requires care, as the plant’s sting is uncomfortable when raw.

3. Java Tea (Orthosiphon stamineus)

Native to Southeast Asia, Java tea (also called cat’s whiskers) has been traditionally used to promote urinary and kidney function. It’s a staple in many herbal preparations for kidney and bladder health (6).

What It Does 

Java tea is believed to act as a mild diuretic, helping the body eliminate salt and water through urine. It may also reduce inflammation in the urinary tract and support the natural filtration process of the kidneys (6). 

How to Use It 

Java tea is typically brewed as a herbal tea from its dried leaves. It’s also available in capsule or powder form. Always choose high-quality, well-tested products to avoid adulteration.

4. Corn Silk (Zea mays)

Corn silk is the stringy material you find attached to corn cobs. While often discarded, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

What It Does 

Corn silk acts as a diuretic, promoting urination and helping the body flush out excess fluids. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects on the urinary tract (7). 

How to Use It 

Corn silk is typically consumed as tea. The silk is dried and steeped in hot water for 5-10 minutes. It’s a simple and accessible remedy, but like all herbs, it should be used under guidance if you have kidney health concerns.

5. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

Parsley, a common culinary herb, is grown worldwide and has a long history of being used in herbal medicine. Its kidney-related properties are derived from its natural diuretic effects (8).

What It Does 

Parsley helps promote urine production, which may indirectly support the kidneys in maintaining fluid balance. It’s also rich in antioxidants and nutrients that contribute to overall health (9). 

How to Use It 

Parsley can be consumed fresh in foods, blended into smoothies, or steeped into a tea using the leaves or seeds. However, high doses should be avoided by individuals with certain kidney conditions, as it may strain kidney function.

6. Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Horsetail is a vascular plant that thrives in Europe, Asia, and North America. It is used as a traditional herbal remedy for supporting urinary and kidney health (10).

What It Does 

Horsetail acts as a diuretic, promoting increased urine flow. It also contains silica, which may support tissue repair and strengthen the urinary tract (10). 

How to Use It 

Dried horsetail is often brewed into tea or taken as a capsule. It’s important to limit use to a few weeks at a time and consult a healthcare provider to avoid potential side effects, such as electrolyte imbalances.

7. Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea)

Goldenrod is a flowering plant native to North America and Europe, often used in herbal medicine for its kidney and urinary tract benefits (11).

What It Does 

Goldenrod has diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and support kidney function (11). 

How to Use It 

Goldenrod is typically consumed as tea made from its dried flowers and leaves. It’s also available in tincture and capsule form.

8. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion, which is found virtually everywhere in the world, is often viewed as a pesky weed. However, its leaves and roots are highly valued in herbal medicine.

What It Does 

Dandelion acts as a mild diuretic, which helps increase urine production. It also contains potassium, which can help replace some of the potassium lost through diuretics in the body (12). 

How to Use It 

Dandelion can be consumed as tea, juice, or in salads using fresh leaves. The root is often used in herbal teas or powdered supplements.

Read more: Bay Leaf Substitute: The Best Alternative Herbs To Use When You Don’t Have Any Bay Leaves

How to Support Kidney Health with Lifestyle Changes

Supporting your kidney function involves a mix of healthy eating, proper hydration, regular exercise, natural remedies, and lifestyle improvements (13).

1. Clean Eating for Kidney Health

Your diet has a direct impact on your kidney function. Incorporating kidney-friendly foods while avoiding harmful ones can go a long way to preserving kidney health (14).

Actionable Steps

• Focus on whole foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, including bell peppers, cabbage, apples, and berries, which are kidney-friendly.
• Reduce sodium intake by limiting processed and packaged foods. Aim for less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day (15).
• Eat healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts to support overall health.
• Avoid excessive protein intake from sources such as red meat, as it can strain your kidneys (16). Opt for lean or plant-based proteins like tofu, beans, and fish.
• Control potassium levels if necessary. Foods that are high in potassium (such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes) may need to be limited if you have impaired kidney function (17 ).

2. Stay Hydrated

Water is essential for kidney function as it helps flush out toxins and maintain electrolyte balance (18).

Actionable Steps

• Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily, depending on your activity levels and climate.
• Pay attention to your urine color. Pale yellow indicates good hydration, while dark yellow suggests you need more water.
• Avoid excessive sugary drinks, sodas, and alcohol, which can stress your kidneys.
• Add kidney-friendly beverages such as herbal teas (dandelion or nettle) to enhance hydration and provide added benefits.

3. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity supports kidney health by improving circulation and reducing the risk of conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, which can impair kidney function (19).

Actionable Steps

• Aim for 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week. Walking, swimming, or light jogging are excellent options.
• Incorporate strength training or resistance exercises 2-3 times per week to build muscle and boost metabolism.
• Practice yoga or stretching exercises, which promote relaxation and reduce stress, benefiting kidney function.
• Avoid overexertion, especially if you already face kidney-related health issues. Listen to your body.

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4. Use Herbal Supplements

Certain herbs are known for their kidney-supporting properties. While they are effective, they should be used with caution and ideally under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Actionable Steps

• Try dandelion root tea to support detoxification (12).
• Include nettle tea in your routine for anti-inflammatory benefits and improved kidney filtering (5).
• Avoid the overuse of strong diuretics unless directed – they can deplete essential electrolytes and cause dehydration.
• Always consult a doctor before you start using herbal remedies, particularly if you’re on medication or have underlying health conditions.

5. Make Key Lifestyle Adjustments

Your lifestyle choices can significantly impact your kidney health. Small but consistent changes can prevent complications over time.

Actionable Steps

• Quit smoking as it reduces blood flow to the kidneys and increases the risk of chronic kidney disease (20).
• Limit alcohol consumption, as this can dehydrate the body and harm kidney tissue (21).
• Manage stress through activities such as meditation, mindfulness, or creative outlets. Chronic stress can indirectly impact kidney health (22).
• Get regular checkups and monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar levels. The early detection of kidney-related issues makes a big difference.

6. Preventative Care and Awareness

Prevention is always better than cure. Staying informed and proactive about your kidney health can save you from long-term complications.

Actionable Steps

• Avoid the overuse of over-the-counter painkillers like NSAIDs, which can harm your kidneys with prolonged use (23).
• Be cautious with supplements and protein powders, ensuring they don’t overload your kidneys.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your kidneys.
• If you have conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, follow your doctor’s management plan carefully.

Read more: Chinese Herbs For Weight Loss: A Holistic Approach To Shake Up Your Metabolism

Signs That a Kidney Detox Is Working

Making positive lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and exercising, can work wonders for your overall wellness. If you’re following these steps to support your kidney health, you may experience some positive signs that your body’s natural detoxification process is at work.

1. Increased Urine Clarity and Production

Urine clarity is often used as an indicator of good hydration. If you’re drinking enough water, your urine should be pale yellow or straw-colored. As you incorporate kidney-friendly foods and beverages into your diet, you may notice that your urine becomes more clear and abundant. This is a positive sign that your kidneys are functioning well.

2. Improved Energy Levels

When your body is burdened with toxins, it can lead to fatigue and sluggishness. As you clean up your eating habits and exercise regularly, you may feel more energetic and alert. This is because your kidneys are functioning better and your body is able to eliminate waste more efficiently.

3. Reduced Water Retention

Water retention can be a sign of kidney dysfunction. When your kidneys aren’t functioning correctly, they may struggle to remove excess fluid from the body, which can lead to swelling in the hands, feet, or face (24). As you incorporate healthy habits and support your kidneys’ natural detoxification process, you may notice a reduction in water retention.

4. Improved Digestion

The foods you eat and the fluids you drink play important roles in supporting digestion and elimination processes. By following a kidney-friendly diet and staying hydrated, you may experience improved digestion and regular bowel movements as your body eliminates toxins more efficiently.

5. Better Skin Health

Your skin is an organ that also helps eliminate toxins from the body (25). When your kidneys are functioning correctly, they help remove waste and excess fluids that can otherwise cause skin issues such as acne, rashes, or dryness. As you support your kidney function through a healthy lifestyle, you may notice an improvement in your skin’s appearance.

6. Better Sleep

A well-functioning body can lead to better sleep quality. As you make positive changes to support your kidney health, you may find that you sleep more soundly and feel more rested in the morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the best drink to flush your kidneys?

Plain, filtered water is the best drink to flush your kidneys. Other kidney-friendly beverages include herbal teas, fruit and vegetable juices, and coconut water.

• What foods are good for promoting kidney health?

Foods that are high in antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber can support kidney health. Examples include leafy greens, berries, fish, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.

• What are the best herbs for kidney cleansing?

Some of the best herbs for kidney cleansing include dandelion root, stinging nettle, and parsley. These herbs have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties that can support kidney function and detoxification. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before you add any herbal supplements to your routine.

The Bottom Line

Labeling any herb as a “kidney cleanser” can be misleading as the kidneys are naturally designed to filter and remove toxins without needing external “cleanses”. That being said, herbs such as milk thistle, stinging nettle, Java tea, and others mentioned here can complement kidney health when used responsibly.

A lifestyle that prioritizes hydration, healthy eating, and regular exercise can go a long way to supporting the natural detoxification process of your kidneys. Avoiding harmful substances such as alcohol and tobacco, managing stress levels, and staying informed about your kidney health can also help prevent potential issues in the future.

Most importantly, those with existing kidney conditions or who are taking any medications should always consult a healthcare provider before they introduce herbs into their regimen. Safe and informed use is key to supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes.