5 Herbs for Kidney Health You Should Know About

Q: What are the best foods for kidney health?

Kidney-friendly eating often focuses on whole, minimally processed foods. Common options include leafy greens (like spinach and kale), berries, apples, garlic, onions, omega-3–rich fish (such as salmon), olive oil, whole grains, and legumes. Hydration also matters, and water is a good default choice. If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD) or are on dialysis, your ideal choices may differ based on potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and protein goals—check with a clinician or renal dietitian.

Q: Is kombucha good for kidney health?

Kombucha may contain probiotics, but it’s also acidic and can vary widely in sugar, alcohol content, and additives. If you have kidney disease or are sensitive to certain ingredients, kombucha may not be a good fit. It’s best to speak with a healthcare professional before adding it regularly, especially if you have CKD, take medications, or follow a fluid or electrolyte plan.

Q: Are tomatoes good for kidneys?

Tomatoes can be part of a balanced diet and provide antioxidants and hydration. However, for people with kidney disease, potassium intake may need to be limited, and tomatoes (and tomato products) can be relatively high in potassium. Some people may also need to watch oxalates. Moderation and individualized guidance are key—ask your clinician or renal dietitian what fits your needs.

The kidneys are the unsung heroes of our body. They work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to process around 200 quarts of blood, thus filtering out about 2 quarts of waste products and excess water. Even though they function out of sight, kidneys constantly keep fine-tuning processes while supporting balance so the urinary system runs smoothly.

Supporting them with natural care is a simple way to give back to what supports us every day. This piece looks into five ancient herbs for kidney health — trusted through time to promote daily well-being and vitality.

Why Supporting Kidney Health Naturally Is Important

Our kidneys deal with numerous current pressures. Due to poor routines or pollution, they often work under strain. And things like high sugar, raised blood pressure, extra pounds, or salty meals don’t help and tend to disrupt their regular duties even more. As days pass, such influences may weaken how well the body cleanses itself naturally.

A different point involves how everyday medicines affect health. Although available without a prescription, some drugs — when used often or at high doses — place extra strain on organs during breakdown. Likewise, non-medical substances can create comparable issues.

Per the National Kidney Foundation, issues tied to kidney function affect a larger share of adults than commonly thought — 1 out of every 7 individuals in the U.S., or roughly 15%. That number shows why it’s wise to focus on kidneys early, well ahead of any serious trouble.

Over time, various societies have used plants to help maintain everyday health. Although such botanicals aren't meant to replace medical treatment, they’re respected due to longstanding usage in promoting overall balance.

So let’s see our top 5 herbs for your kidney wellness support.

5 Herbs for Kidney Health

1. Chanca Piedra

A leafy plant found in damp, tropical areas, chanca piedra (Phyllanthus niruri) is thought to be just as useful as lovely.

Chanca piedra, also known as "stone breaker," is a leafy plant native to tropical regions worldwide. It thrives in damp, humid environments and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support kidney health and various health areas.

The plant's nickname, "stone breaker," stems from its purported ability to support kidney health. Many have traditionally described chanca piedra as having mild diuretic properties and an alkaline nature, which may support normal urinary flow and the body’s natural processes for maintaining balance in the urinary system. This makes it one of the best herbs for diuretic support.

Chanca piedra is often consumed as capsules, tinctures, or infused herbal teas.

2. Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root has been used for ages in natural remedies, especially for bladder and kidney health. What makes it unique is the large amount of mucilage it contains — an inner material that turns jelly-like when wet. This gel acts gently, forming a calming layer. Such qualities have made it popular over time for maintaining smooth function in areas like the urinary system.

In traditional herb use, marshmallow root helps promote steady kidney and bladder function gently. Instead of pushing hard, this root supports quietly, valued mainly for its soft nature.

3. Celery Seed

Tiny celery seeds pack a strong punch; they're harvested from the blooms of Apium graveolens — a relative of the common edible stalk variety, though not identical.

While resembling store-bought celery, this flowering form is grown specifically for seed production rather than crunching raw. Each seed cluster develops where petals once bloomed, transformed through growth cycles into aromatic specks used widely in seasoning blends across global cuisines.

Celery seed contains plenty of 3-N-butylphthalide (NBP), an oily compound that offers diuretic support. Because of this, it promotes urinary health. For these reasons, Celery tincture and capsules are commonly used to support kidney function and detoxification.

While eating celery seeds works, using an extract provides faster absorption and more convenience. Put a small amount of the tincture into your smoothie or any drink to increase its diuretic power.

4. Dandelion Root

Not just a common yard plant, dandelion root (Taraxaci officinalis radix) has long been valued for supporting kidney health. While promoting kidneys, it also contributes positively to liver wellness.

Dandelion root provides plenty of vitamin A, plus C, B2, and B6 — key nutrients supporting kidney health and natural detoxification. It also carries antioxidants like beta carotene along with polyphenols; these promote a healthy response to an occasional oxidative stress while helping with natural cleansing.

Typically, dandelion root is added to meals as a cup of warm tea, often noted for its smoky taste. In case tea doesn't suit you and you’re looking for something pure, a tincture version works equally well.

5. Parsley Root

A familiar presence on kitchen shelves, parsley (Petroselinum crispum) ranks among top choices for kidney wellness. While every part offers advantages — enhancing the flavor of many dishes, for example — the root stands out for people aiming to support kidney function using natural plant-based options.

Parsley root promotes a healthy inflammatory response — this promotes circulation, benefiting kidney health indirectly. Also, this herb might support the liver, which matters since both organs handle natural detox.

Parsley, like other gentle herb roots used for kidneys, isn't easy to eat on its own due to its delicate structure. Try taking it instead as a supplement — liquid extracts work well, and they are easy to mix into any beverage of your choice.

FAQ: Herbs for Kidney Health

What are the best foods for kidney health? Foods beneficial for kidney health include leafy greens (such as spinach and kale), berries, apples, garlic, onions, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon), olive oil, whole grains, and legumes. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is essential for kidney health.

Is kombucha good for kidney health? While kombucha is often touted for its probiotic properties and potential health benefits, individuals with kidney issues should consume it cautiously. The high acidity levels and specific compounds in kombucha may exacerbate kidney problems for some individuals. It's best to consult a healthcare professional before adding kombucha to your diet if you have kidney issues.

Are tomatoes good for kidneys? Tomatoes are generally considered beneficial for kidney health due to their high water content and antioxidant properties. However, individuals with kidney issues should monitor their tomato intake, as tomatoes also contain oxalates, which can contribute to kidney issues in susceptible individuals. Moderation is key.

Time to Choose Your Herbs for Kidney Health

Different herbs for kidney health have been used throughout the ages, and today, modern research is helping us begin to understand why.

Though herbal support may help kidneys work better, pairing them with good daily habits matters just as much. Besides relying on natural herbal supplements, drinking enough water helps keep things running smoothly. A sensible eating plan gives the body what it needs without strain. Getting active now and then helps with overall wellness. And talking with a doctor ensures choices fit individual health needs.

When healthier habits meet consistent herbal support, your kidneys receive gentle, ongoing care you can rely on any time.

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Written by Glen Green, Herbal Copywriter at Secrets of the Tribe

Reviewed by Secrets of the Tribe Herbalists

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.