Herbs to Support the Kidneys and Urinary Tract

#The important role of the kidneys

In today's toxic world our kidneys play a very large role in removing toxins from our bodies.

They constantly cleanse our blood of all the waste products from what we eat or breathe in, as well as those our body generates naturally.

Now more than ever it is important to keep our kidneys healthy so that they can get rid of the many toxins the environment exposes us to. According to WHO data, our surroundings today are 100 times more toxic than in the days of our grandmothers and grandfathers.

Pollutants such as synthetic pesticides, herbicides, plasticisers in meat and food packaging, and heavy metals are in our food, water and air!

Besides helping our body cleanse itself, the kidneys are tasked with maintaining the balance of water and fluids, regulating blood pressure, eliminating waste, as well as filtration.

#Modern life is hard on the kidneys

There are many factors, both external and internal, that can put a strain on our kidneys – our lifestyle, habits, environmental pollution, medicines, high blood sugar (diabetes) and diet.

Did you know that our kidneys can work at only 10% of their capacity and we may still not notice any symptoms (signals) of damage, even for years?

This is because of our body's ability to compensate for certain disorders. In this way kidney diseases progress without distinctive changes in our health.

And because they remain hidden, many people do not think to look after their kidneys as well as they should. For those of us with weak kidneys, there are safe natural ingredients that invigorate these organs and help them cleanse themselves effectively. 

In this article we will introduce you to them.

#Kidney infection - pyelonephritis 

A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is an inflammatory disease of the kidneys caused by viruses and bacteria (Escherichia coli, Proteus, Klebsiella, enterococci). It usually develops when a urinary tract infection spreads to one or both kidneys.

The kidneys filter waste products from the blood into the urine and regulate the water and electrolyte content of the blood. Both are essential functions for health.

A kidney infection (pyelonephritis) - is a serious medical condition that requires immediate treatment. 

It generally starts as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or a bladder infection and then spreads to affect one or both kidneys.

Most kidney infections are easy to treat and recovery is quick, but sometimes they can lead to serious health problems, especially if left untreated.

Improper treatment of an infection can also cause considerable discomfort, since symptoms such as painful urination are quite unpleasant.

You can use home remedies alongside the medical treatment prescribed for you to relieve some symptoms and improve the health of your kidneys, but you should not try to treat yourself. 

Always consult a healthcare professional first for a diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.

#What causes a kidney infection?

Kidney infections are usually caused by bacteria that have entered the kidneys and bladder through the urinary tract. 

They can also be caused by bacteria from another infection elsewhere in your body, by bladder or kidney surgery, or by a blockage of urine flow (for example from a kidney stone, a tumour or an enlarged prostate).

While most kidney infections can easily be treated, in rare cases they can cause serious health problems, especially if they are neglected or left untreated. 

Pyelonephritis can spread to one or both kidneys and can be quite painful. 

It can occur in both children and adults. 

Read on to learn about natural ways to treat a kidney infection.

#Types of kidney infections

They can be sudden (acute) or chronic and are usually quite painful. 

They can also be serious and life-threatening if not treated appropriately.

#Risk factors for kidney infections

Women tend to be more susceptible to kidney infections because their urethras are shorter than men's. This makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract, especially as it is closer to the vagina and anus. Pregnancy increases this risk factor.

Other risk factors include:

• A tendency towards urinary tract infections
• A weakened immune system
• Problems with regularly emptying the bladder completely when urinating

#Symptoms of a kidney infection

Symptoms of pyelonephritis usually appear about 2 days after the initial infection and can differ between children and adults. 

Common symptoms in adults include:

• Pain in the abdomen, back, groin or side
• Frequent urination or a feeling that you need to urinate
• Burning or pain during urination
• Blood or pus in the urine
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Nausea or vomiting
• High temperature
• Chills

In children under 2 years of age, a kidney infection may show only a high temperature as a symptom. 

Older adults over 65 may experience only mental confusion and muddled speech as their symptoms.

#Worsening of a kidney infection - sepsis

If a kidney infection is not treated quickly or appropriately, the symptoms can become severe and lead to sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition. 

Symptoms of sepsis include:

• Chills
• High temperature
• Rapid breathing and pulse
• Confusion
• Rash

#When to seek immediate medical help

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are unpleasant, but they are not an immediate medical emergency. Some people make the mistake of assuming the same is true of a kidney infection.

Kidney infections are serious conditions that require medical attention. Left untreated, they can quickly cause lasting kidney damage or scarring of the kidneys. These infections can also cause sepsis, which can lead to septic shock.

For this reason they can be fatal if they progress. It is important that they are treated promptly by a medical professional.

Bear in mind that kidney stones, if left untreated, can also cause a blockage that may lead to infection and sepsis. This may require a procedure with intravenous antibiotics performed by a urologist.

#Medical treatment of kidney infections

Antibiotics are always the first line of defence against a kidney infection. If it is not severe, your doctor will probably prescribe oral antibiotics to take once or twice a day for 7 to 14 days.

It is important to take the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel better within a few days. Stopping early can lead to antibiotic resistance or reinfection. Your doctor will also encourage you to drink plenty of water.

In some cases you may need to be admitted to hospital so that you can be given fluids and antibiotics intravenously.

In addition, laboratory tests and imaging may be carried out to determine the severity of the infection as well as its cause, such as a blockage due to a kidney stone or an anatomical abnormality.

If you have recurrent urinary tract infections, which increase the risk of frequent kidney infections, your doctor will help you find out why they happen so often and help you prevent further infections.

#Natural ways and home remedies for treating a kidney infection

Common symptoms of a kidney infection are abdominal pain, frequent urination, burning when passing urine, nausea and fever. If it is not treated properly or in time, it can lead to severe symptoms and even sepsis. 

Some people prefer to treat medical conditions with home remedies or complementary natural medicines.

Depending on how serious the condition is, it is important not to rely solely on home remedies but to take the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.  Natural approaches can help you ease the symptoms or the pain.

People with chronic kidney disease need to take the very best care of themselves.

They should focus on their diet, because this is a condition in which the kidneys are fully damaged and do not function as they should.

You can make use of nature's pharmacy to improve kidney function, cleanse the urinary tract and protect against infections.

The best part of natural treatment is that it has no side effects at all. 

To keep our kidneys healthy it is important to lead an active lifestyle and stay well hydrated.

Follow the natural remedies that can help you look after your kidneys.

Here is a list of the best home remedies that help deal with kidney infections and prevent them from developing.

#Birch - a natural remedy for the kidneys

Birch bark is yet another gift from nature that you should definitely take advantage of.

People suffering from atherosclerosis, kidney diseases (especially kidney stones) and urinary tract infections, skin problems, rheumatism, digestive tract disorders and stomach ulcers respond exceptionally well to treatment with the white gift of nature. 

The plant works fastest in the form of a concentrated herbal extract - a tincture.

Birch bark is included in the formula of our Herbal tincture BETULA

#Birch tincture for kidney complaints

The leaves and bark of the birch are used medicinally; they are rich in vitamin C, tannins, essential oils and more.

Birch is known for its medicinal uses for:

• Kidney complaints
• Kidney stones
• Inflammation of the renal pelvis
• Urinary tract infections

Herbal tincture BETULA is a natural herbal supplement to support the kidneys. It is formulated with a proven natural ingredient - birch bark extract - for nourishment and protection.

Draw strength from nature with birch tincture for kidney complaints from bilkovitinkturi.bg.

#Cranberry for kidney infections

Cranberry juice is an excellent remedy for all kinds of kidney and urinary tract infections and has been used as a home remedy for centuries.

Cranberry helps prevent bacteria from developing on the walls of the bladder, helps prevent urinary tract infections and helps stop them from reaching the kidneys.

Experts recommend drinking two glasses of cranberry juice every day. 

*Caution: Drink cranberry juice with no added sugar, as the sweetened kind can reduce the benefits of the fruit juice and lead to other health problems.

#Cranberry tincture for kidney infections

Many people prefer the sweet taste of cranberry juice to water. However, cranberry juices are full of added sweeteners and are not the best option for you. A cranberry supplement, pure fruit juice or a herbal tincture is a much better alternative for getting the benefits of cranberries.

Cranberries are therapeutic in keeping the kidneys free of stones. It is well known that the red berries can prevent the build-up of calcium oxalate stones.

Research also shows that cranberries have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect on the kidneys. They are even recommended as a "complementary" option for preventing kidney damage during kidney infections.

Herbal tincture TSISTOKLIYN - is cranberry extract for kidney infections and the most suitable form in which to take this beneficial little berry.

#Drink plenty of water with a kidney infection 

The most common cause of kidney problems is a lack of water. 

Flushing bacteria out of the kidneys is the main goal when someone has a kidney infection. It is extremely important to stay hydrated. 

Water helps flush toxins, waste, bacteria, infectious agents and so on from the kidneys through the urinary tract in the form of urine. This helps eliminate the infection faster and also prevents UTIs (it helps clear the whole urinary system), which can lead to kidney infections.

Drink at least 10-12 glasses of water to clear the infection from your body and get your kidneys functioning properly. 

*If a person has kidney failure, they may need to reduce this amount of fluid based on their doctor's recommendations. 

Drinking plenty of water is one of the cheapest, safest and most effective home remedies for a kidney infection without antibiotics. Drinking plenty of water can benefit your body in many ways.

#Astragalus - a remedy for kidney diseases

Astragalus - milkvetch (Klinaviche) has traditionally been used as a remedy for kidney diseases. 

And modern research shows many more positive effects on kidney health.

Studies have found that taking astragalus improves many markers of kidney function (such as serum creatinine and protein loss in the urine). Astragalus even helps combat the side effects of poor kidney function, such as anaemia and malnutrition, which suggests wide-ranging holistic effects that support the whole body.

Studies involving astragalus show that it can protect kidney health by reducing signs of kidney tissue damage and inflammation.

#Astragalus tincture for kidney diseases

The herb has a positive effect on the digestive system, the liver, kidney and urinary tract diseases, and it improves reproductive capacity and metabolism.

Get astragalus tincture for kidney diseases from  bilkovitinkturi.bg.

#Nettle leaves - beneficial for the kidneys

Nettle is a wonderful herb to use against allergies, and it is also a stinging herb with healing properties for the kidneys.

The anti-inflammatory effects of nettle, which are useful for relieving allergy symptoms, have a protective effect on the kidneys.

It raises kidney levels of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that our body produces.

#Nettle tincture has a protective effect on the kidneys

The stinging herb, or more precisely nettle leaf extract, helps with kidney diseases, and it also has a beneficial effect on gallbladder disorders and prostate problems, acting as a diuretic. In the form of a herbal extract you can feel the healing effect of the herb fastest.

#Bearberry for kidney infections

Bacteria can irritate, cause damage and trigger kidney infections. Uva-ursi - bearberry is a natural remedy and is well known as an antibacterial agent that helps with urinary tract infections.

Its most important medicinal use is that the herb is beneficial for the kidneys and bladder, the prostate and reduced potency.

#Bearberry tincture for kidney infections

Bearberry extract for kidney infections has a long history of use in traditional Native American medicine as a diuretic and as a treatment for urinary tract infections, painful urination and kidney stones.

Take health from nature with the herbal extract KAMENOLOMNA and get rid of kidney and urinary tract problems.

#Horsetail for kidney problems

Horsetail has been used since ancient Roman times to soothe the kidneys, and there is no doubt that its powerful anti-inflammatory effects are responsible for its effectiveness. This herb reduces the inflammatory protein TNF-α in the body and can be used to combat the symptoms of arthritis and kidney problems.

#Turmeric - for treating kidney infections

As we have seen so far, inflammation is bad for the kidneys. 

Turmeric is another powerful anti-inflammatory herb that soothes the kidneys and regulates the kidneys' own antioxidant defences.

This well-known and widely studied spice is another effective remedy for kidney infections, as the spice helps speed up the recovery process. It contains an ingredient called curcumin, which is antifungal by nature and helps inhibit the growth of the microbes that cause kidney infections. In addition, a turmeric solution helps stop the growth of bacteria or microbes. 

*Caution: Too much turmeric can increase the risk of kidney stones.

#Ginger improves kidney health 

Ginger's ability to fight oxidative stress and inflammation is firmly established, and researchers have described in detail how the root specifically improves kidney health. The evidence shows that ginger improves kidney function and even the tissue "architecture" of the kidneys.

Ginger helps treat kidney infections naturally and effectively. The herb contains gingerols, which are loaded with antibacterial properties. This helps stop bacterial growth in the kidneys. 

You can drink a cup of ginger tea every day, chew pieces of the root or take it in the form of a herbal extract.

*Caution: Do not consume more than 4 grams of ginger a day in any form. People with heart disease, diabetes and gallstones should refrain from consuming ginger.

#Turmeric and ginger tincture for healthy kidneys

You can add these orange spices to your daily meals or take them as a tea or a herbal extract - the most concentrated and recommended form. 

Herbal tincture TONUS is a blend of two powerful exotic herbs ➡ ginger and turmeric, which together have an exceptionally strong effect. 

Turmeric and ginger extract for kidney inflammation.

#Green tea helps the kidneys

Researchers believe that green tea may help reduce the build-up in the kidneys of toxic substances called AGEs. These substances are produced in your body from dietary sugar or absorbed from eating cooked animal products.

Green tea may also prevent cell death in stressed kidneys. Green tea is more effective at nourishing and protecting the kidneys than other powerful antioxidants such as quercetin.

• Herbal tea ​​

Herbal tea is an amazing remedy for kidney infections. Drinks such as chamomile tea, hibiscus tea, green tea and others help protect us from kidney diseases.

#Garlic for cleansing the kidneys

Garlic is one of the most effective home remedies that help cleanse the kidneys by flushing salt and other waste out in the urine. Garlic has diuretic properties that help treat kidney diseases. 

Including garlic in your diet helps relieve the symptoms of a kidney infection. It contains allicin, which is rich in anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties that help fight a kidney infection. 

*Taking 2-3 cloves of garlic every day is considered safe. You can also include it in your food.

#Parsley juice - effective for a kidney infection

Parsley juice is known to be an effective remedy for a kidney infection. The plant is an amazing source of nutrients such as vitamins A, B and C, sodium, potassium, thiamine, copper and riboflavin, and therefore helps prevent kidney diseases. 

Just like cranberry juice, parsley juice can also work like magic when it comes to relieving the symptoms of a kidney infection. Parsley juice is a nutrient-rich diuretic that can increase the frequency and amount of urination. This helps flush bacteria out of the kidneys faster.

*Take dried or freshly chopped parsley, boil it in water for five minutes and strain. Let the drink cool before drinking. You can add lemon juice and honey.

If you don't like the taste of parsley, you can blend it into a smoothie with strongly flavoured fruit, including cranberries or blueberries, for best results.

#Apples and apple juice to support the kidneys

Apples are rich in nutrients and have anti-inflammatory properties. The high malic acid content of apples can help the kidneys maintain the acidity of the urine, preventing further growth of bacteria. 

It also prevents a bladder infection from spreading to the kidneys and promotes a quick recovery. This home remedy is also useful for preventing oxidative damage to the kidneys.

*Eat 1-2 apples every day or drink two glasses of apple juice every day.

*Take 2 tablespoons of vinegar and mix them with a glass of water regularly until the pain subsides. You can add honey for a better taste and extra benefits. 

*Do not overdo it! Too much apple cider vinegar can weaken tooth enamel, increase acid reflux and cause nausea.

#Aloe vera for kidney prevention

Aloe vera can be used to help prevent kidney infections as well as kidney diseases. Aloe vera helps flush toxins, waste, infectious agents and other particles from the body. 

*Drink aloe vera juice once a day for kidney infections. To make the juice, remove all the green skin and cut into one-centimetre cubes. Put five cubes into a blender with two cups of water; blend until the aloe gel is fully incorporated. You can add lemon juice for flavour. 

Caution: Do not overdo it with prolonged use.

#Other measures when treating a kidney infection

What other measures help in treating a kidney infection? In addition to herbs, spices and fruit, there are other measures that can help in treating a kidney infection. However, these are supplementary measures in addition to the main treatment. You can also use aspirin-free painkillers to relieve discomfort. 

#Take probiotics when treating kidney infections

Probiotics have two big advantages when it comes to treating kidney infections.

The first is that they help us keep the healthy bacteria in our body in check, because they are food for our "good" bacteria,  even though antibiotics can get rid of both the "good" and the "bad" bacteria.

There is also evidence that probiotics can help reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhoea in patients.

Probiotics can be useful for reducing antibiotic-associated diarrhoea in patients. They improve kidney function and prevent any other infections. 

Consuming probiotics such as kefir, yoghurt, sauerkraut and so on can also improve the effectiveness of treating an infection. 

#An Epsom salt bath for a kidney infection

Both Epsom salts and warm water can help relieve the pain caused by kidney infections. An Epsom salt bath can detoxify your body and help you get rid of any waste or bacteria, further improving the condition of your kidneys. This can help make the unpleasant side effects of a kidney infection a little more bearable. The high level of magnesium in Epsom salt helps ease the infection and provides relief. 

*Add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to a standard-sized bath filled with warm or hot water and relax in it for 15-30 minutes.

#Applying heat to relieve kidney infection pain 

Heat therapy can help relieve the pain caused by kidney infections. Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to the affected area and keep it there for about 15-20 minutes at a time. 

#Keeping to the right diet for the kidneys

You should follow a restricted diet if you have a kidney infection. It is recommended not to eat foods rich in glucose or sugar. The reason is that sugar can cause bacteria to grow. You should also avoid foods such as biscuits, cakes, chocolates, alcohol and fizzy drinks. 

#Vitamin C promotes kidney health

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body's tissues from oxidative stress, which can help promote kidney health. Vitamin C helps kidney stones dissolve easily.

Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruit (like oranges), cucumbers and broccoli, promote better kidney health. 

#Maintaining proper hygiene with kidney infections

Proper hygiene is necessary for treating kidney infections. It will prevent a number of infections in the kidneys, bladder and urethra. Patients with an infection should also maintain proper hygiene to prevent harmful bacteria from spreading to other parts of the body. 

#Urinate often for healthy kidneys 

Frequent urination also helps rid the body of harmful bacteria, free radicals and viruses through the urine. This helps get rid of kidney stones and other kidney diseases. To urinate often you will need to hydrate regularly with water and fluids. 

#Foods and habits to avoid with a kidney infection 

Avoid alcohol and coffee, as caffeine will demand extra work from the kidneys and can hinder the process of recovering from an infection. 

Avoid wearing synthetic underwear or tight-fitting clothes. 

Citrus juice and fizzy drinks can worsen the symptoms of a kidney infection. 

Foods high in phosphorus, such as milk, wholegrain foods, nuts, chocolates, beans, peas, lentils and meat products, should be avoided until the infection has cleared.

#Avoid alcohol and coffee with a kidney infection

The most important role of the kidneys is to filter out harmful substances and toxins, and alcohol and caffeine can make the kidneys work harder. This can hinder the healing process.

Alcohol and antibiotics should not be mixed either, so avoid alcohol during treatment for this reason too.

#How to reduce the risk of kidney infections

Anyone can get this kind of infection. However, since UTIs can turn into kidney infections, you can reduce your risk of them by reducing your risk of UTIs.

Tips for reducing the risk of a urinary tract infection include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Wiping from front to back after using the toilet
• Not holding in urine
• Urinating immediately after sexual intercourse
• Staying away from scented bath products, douches and tampons or pads (for women)
• Taking probiotic supplements
• Taking herbal supplements

#Natural support for kidney health thanks to herbs

Our kidneys do a lot of work every day to keep our blood balanced and filtered. They are also an important part of the urinary tract and are closely linked to the adrenal glands.

Support the overall health of your urinary tract with the kidney herbs we have mentioned in this article: bearberry, birch, cranberry, astragalus, nettle, turmeric and others.

Let your body benefit from the power of these herbs by taking them in the form of herbal extracts - for urinary tract health and everyday support for the health of the adrenal glands, to show some love to your hard-working adrenals. 

Our whole body will feel better for it and will thank us.

#Natural is always preferable

Look for first-class natural kidney cleansing.

A kidney infection is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment with antibiotics prescribed by a medical professional.

Home remedies can be used as a complementary treatment to relieve other symptoms, but remember to ask a doctor before using them to make sure they will not interfere with your treatment.

Your kidneys are one of our most complex working organs when it comes to filtering waste, toxins and pollutants in our body.

Our harmful habits, such as smoking, frequent drinking of alcohol or certain foods, put unnecessary stress on our kidneys, making them work slowly as they desperately try to cope with the onslaught of poisons and waste.

Even if we do none of these things, keeping our kidneys in good working order should be a definite health priority. 

Normalising blood sugar + antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support + normalising blood pressure - three key components needed for proper kidney function. 

And adding nature's elixirs - herbs - is the best support on the road to kidney health.