New Delhi: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), also known as Chronic Renal Failure (CRF), is a progressive condition that leads to the irreversible deterioration of kidney function. In India, CKD has emerged as a growing public health concern, with dialysis and kidney transplantation often being the last resort. However, these treatments are not only costly but also physically and emotionally draining, making them inaccessible to a large section of the population. Against this backdrop, Ayurveda, India’s ancient system of medicine, is increasingly being seen as a complementary approach to managing kidney ailments.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Puneet Dhawan, Founder & Director Karma Ayurveda, spoke about Ayurvedic principles that may help today’s chronic kidney disease patients.
Understanding the Ayurveda Perspective
According to Ayurveda principles, diseases occur when the body’s internal channels (srotas) are blocked or when the life energies (doshas) become imbalanced. The kidneys are considered the roots of the Meda Vaha Srotas (channels for fat and blood) and the Mutra Vaha Srotas (urinary channels). Any impairment in these channels is believed to disrupt kidney function. For instance, Madhumeha (diabetes), which Ayurveda identifies as a key trigger for kidney disease, causes disturbances in these pathways, ultimately affecting the kidneys’ filtering ability.
Ayurveda does not merely target symptoms but focuses on restoring balance in these channels. It employs herbs, diet, and detoxification therapies to reduce blockages, improve circulation, and strengthen renal function.
Herbal Remedies and Procedures
Ayurveda offers a range of herbal solutions for managing kidney-related disorders. Herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, Kaasni, and Varuna are believed to support kidney health by reducing inflammation, enhancing diuresis, and promoting the natural elimination of waste products such as creatinine. Panchakarma, a cleansing and detoxification therapy, is also used to eliminate toxins and restore the kidneys’ filtering capacity.
Experts emphasise that Ayurveda interventions may not only slow the progression of CKD but also provide relief from symptoms like edema, abdominal discomfort, muscle cramps, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. In some reported cases, patients with advanced CKD have responded positively to long-term Ayurveda care, reducing dependence on dialysis.
Diet and Lifestyle in CKD Management
Diet plays a pivotal role in Ayurveda’s approach to kidney care. Patients are advised to follow a predominantly plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains while minimizing meat, dairy, and foods high in potassium and phosphorus. Alongside diet, Ayurveda stresses the importance of lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, yoga, meditation, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. These measures help reduce stress on the kidneys and improve overall well-being.
Balancing Ayurveda with Modern Care
While Ayurveda shows promising results, medical experts caution that it should not replace conventional treatments like dialysis or transplant where necessary. Instead, it can be used as a complementary therapy to modern medicine. For best results, patients are encouraged to consult both their nephrologist and a qualified Ayurveda practitioner before making changes to their treatment plan.
It is also important to note that not all herbal formulations are safe. Some may have adverse effects on the kidneys or interact with prescribed medications. Therefore, professional guidance and regular monitoring are essential.
A Holistic Way Forward
The rising prevalence of CKD and the high costs of conventional care have made Ayurveda an attractive alternative for many patients in India. With its emphasis on holistic healing, personalized diets, and natural remedies, Ayurveda may help slow the progression of kidney disease, ease symptoms, and improve quality of life.
However, the integration of Ayurveda into CKD management must be done carefully and under expert supervision. By combining the strengths of both systems—modern medicine’s precision and Ayurveda’s holistic healing—patients can benefit from a more comprehensive approach to kidney health.