One of the main functions of the kidneys is the removal of wastes and fluid from the body. They also help in maintaining mineral balance and regulating blood pressure. With poor functioning of the kidneys, accumulation of waste materials in the blood becomes possible, which in turn may impact general health.
The chronic kidney disease usually develops gradually and may be associated with such health issues as diabetes, high blood pressure and others. The earlier kidneys' functioning is assessed, the better results for health are possible.
Often those who search for Ayurveda for kidney health want to learn how to increase the functioning of their kidneys naturally and avoid dialysis. The answer depends on the stage and cause of kidney disease. Dialysis is a treatment for people whose kidneys can no longer perform enough of their normal functions.
At Jeena Sikho HiiMS Bengaluru, Ayurvedic and lifestyle-based care is offered as a supportive approach for people managing kidney problems. The focus includes diet, daily routine, selected Ayurvedic therapies and the GRAD System.
Understanding Kidney Function and CKD
Healthy kidneys filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. They also help regulate electrolytes, blood pressure and other important functions in the body.
When kidney function decreases, symptoms may not appear in the early stages. As the condition progresses, a person may experience swelling around the feet or eyes, tiredness, changes in urination, poor appetite, nausea or weakness.
Kidney function is commonly assessed through blood and urine tests. Serum creatinine and eGFR are two important measurements used by doctors to understand how well the kidneys are working.
This is why anyone with CKD should regularly monitor their reports and remain in contact with a qualified kidney specialist.
How to Improve Kidney Function Naturally
There is no single natural remedy that can restore kidney function in every person. The approach depends on the cause, stage of CKD, medicines, blood pressure, blood sugar and other health factors.
Some basic areas that can support kidney care include:
Following a suitable kidney-friendly diet
Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar
Reducing excess salt and processed foods
Avoiding unnecessary use of painkillers
Maintaining appropriate physical activity
Taking medicines as prescribed
Regularly monitoring kidney function
Fluid intake also needs to be individualised. A person with advanced CKD or fluid retention may have different fluid requirements from someone with mild kidney disease.
Ayurvedic Kidney Care at Jeena Sikho HiiMS Bengaluru
At Jeena Sikho HiiMS, the approach to kidney care combines Ayurveda, diet and lifestyle guidance with selected natural therapies. The hospital describes its CKD care through four broad areas: Aahar or food, Vihar or lifestyle, Shaman or medicines, and Shodhan or therapies.
The purpose is to create an individualised routine rather than depending on one medicine or therapy.
GRAD System
One of the approaches used at Jeena Sikho HiiMS is the GRAD System. It brings together head-down tilt therapy, hot water immersion and a supervised dietary approach.
Head Down Tilt Therapy
Head Down Tilt (HDT) involves positioning the body at a controlled angle under supervision. In Jeena Sikho HiiMS Bengaluru, this technique is stated to be a procedure of GRAD and is done keeping the patient's comfort in mind.
It should not be attempted at home without professional assessment, particularly in people with blood pressure problems, heart conditions or advanced kidney disease.
Hot Water Immersion
Hot Water Immersion (HWI) involves sitting in warm water for a specified period. This therapy is included in kidney care programmes and is described as a supportive method used alongside other components of the GRAD system.
The temperature and duration should be decided by trained professionals. People with certain medical conditions may not be suitable candidates for heat-based therapies.
pH-Balanced Diet
Diet is another important part of the Jeena Sikho HiiMS approach. The pH-balanced diet used by Jeena Sikho HiiMS includes fruits, salads, cooked foods and other dietary patterns selected according to the programme.
However, kidney disease diets cannot be the same for everyone. Potassium, phosphorus, protein, sodium and fluid requirements may change depending on kidney function and laboratory reports. Therefore, a diet should be planned according to individual medical needs rather than followed blindly.
Panchakarma and Ayurvedic Kidney Care
Panchakarma is traditionally used in Ayurveda for cleansing and therapeutic purposes. Depending on the person's condition, Ayurvedic practitioners may consider procedures such as Vaman, Virechan, Basti, Nasya, Raktmokshan or other therapies.
For a person with CKD, intensive detoxification should never be undertaken without medical assessment. Advanced kidney disease can affect fluid and electrolyte balance, so the patient's reports, medicines and overall strength need to be considered before selecting any therapy.
At Jeena Sikho HiiMS, Panchakarma and other therapies are included as part of its broader supportive kidney care approach.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Kidney Health
Several Ayurvedic herbs are traditionally used in kidney and urinary health, including Punarnava, Gokshura and Varuna. However, having a natural origin does not automatically make an herb safe for someone with kidney disease.
People with reduced kidney function may be more vulnerable to complications from inappropriate herbal medicines or supplements. Some products may also interact with prescription medicines.
Therefore, Ayurvedic herbs for kidney health should only be taken after consultation with a qualified practitioner who has reviewed the patient's kidney reports and current medicines.
Can Ayurvedic Care Help Avoid Dialysis?
Depending upon the state of kidney functioning and overall health of an individual, it may be possible to avoid dialysis. Those who suffer from the earlier stages of CKD may be able to control the disease without dialysis for several years through proper treatment and other necessary interventions.
Supportive Ayurveda treatment may be sought by individuals who suffer from CKD at Jeena Sikho HiiMS, Bengaluru. Individuals undergoing dialysis should first consult a physician before discontinuing dialysis.
Safety Precautions for Kidney Patients
Kidney patients need extra care before trying any natural or Ayurvedic remedy.
Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.
Do not take herbal supplements without professional guidance.
Check creatinine, eGFR and other required reports regularly.
Follow an individualised diet rather than a general kidney diet.
Inform both your nephrologist and Ayurvedic practitioner about all medicines and supplements.
Avoid self-prescribed detox or fasting programmes.
Conclusion
Kidney health depends on several factors, including the stage and cause of kidney disease, blood pressure, blood sugar, diet, medicines and daily habits. How to improve kidney function naturally does not have one fixed answer, and treatment should always be based on the individual's medical condition.
Jeena Sikho HiiMS Bengaluru provides an Ayurvedic and lifestyle-based approach that includes dietary guidance, selected therapies, Panchakarma and the GRAD system.
If you are looking for Ayurvedic kidney care, you can opt for a VOPD consultation with Jeena Sikho HiiMS Bengaluru and discuss your creatinine, eGFR, current medicines, dialysis status and overall health before beginning any Ayurvedic therapy.
FAQs
1. Can Ayurveda cure kidney disease?
Ayurveda should be used as supportive care and not as a replacement for medical treatment.
2. Can Ayurvedic treatment help avoid dialysis?
It may support overall kidney care in some cases, but dialysis should never be stopped without medical advice.
3. Which Ayurvedic herbs are used for kidney health?
Herbs such as Punarnava, Gokshura and Varuna are traditionally used, but they should be taken only under professional guidance.
4. What is the GRAD System?
GRAD combines Head Down Tilt, Hot Water Immersion and dietary guidance as part of the Jeena Sikho HiiMS kidney care programme.
5. Can dialysis patients take Ayurvedic treatment?
Supportive Ayurvedic care may be considered, but it must be coordinated with the patient's nephrologist and dialysis schedule.
