What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood. If untreated, CKD can lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. Ayurveda focuses on restoring kidney function naturally by balancing bodily energies and detoxifying the system.

Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease

• Diabetes & High Blood Pressure: The leading causes of CKD.
• Recurrent Kidney Infections: Damages kidney tissues over time.
• Excessive Use of Painkillers & Medications: Harms kidney function.
• Genetic Disorders (Polycystic Kidney Disease): Causes cyst formation in the kidneys.
• Dehydration & Poor Water Intake: Leads to toxin buildup in the kidneys.
• Unhealthy Diet & Lifestyle: Processed foods, high salt intake, and obesity.

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease

• ✅ Swelling in legs, face, or hands due to fluid retention.
• ✅ Fatigue & weakness caused by toxin buildup.
• ✅ Frequent urination or reduced urine output.
• ✅ Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting due to waste accumulation.
• ✅ High blood pressure & shortness of breath.
• ✅ Dry, itchy skin and muscle cramps.

Ayurvedic Approach to CKD

According to Ayurveda, CKD is caused by an imbalance in Vata and Kapha doshas leading to toxin accumulation (Ama) and reduced kidney function. Kerala Ayurveda offers a holistic and natural treatment approach to cleanse and rejuvenate the kidneys.

holistic and natural treatment approach

1. Panchakarma Detoxification for Kidney Health

• • Virechana (Detox Therapy): Eliminates toxins and improves kidney filtration.
• • Basti (Medicated Enema): Strengthens kidney function and balances Vata dosha.
• • Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Massage): Stimulates circulation and relieves swelling.
• • Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): Promotes sweating to remove toxins.

2. Ayurvedic Herbal Medicines for Kidney Support

• • Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa): Reduces swelling and supports kidney function.
• • Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris): Improves urine flow and detoxifies kidneys.
• • Varun (Crataeva Nurvala): Prevents kidney stone formation and supports kidney tissues.
• • Palasha (Butea Monosperma): Cleanses the urinary system.
• • Shilajit: Strengthens kidney tissues and boosts immunity.

3. Ayurvedic Diet & Lifestyle for CKD

• ✅ Follow a low-protein, low-sodium diet to reduce kidney load.
• ✅ Drink warm herbal teas like coriander water to cleanse the kidneys.
• ✅ Avoid junk food, processed food, high-sugar items, and alcohol.
• ✅ Eat kidney-friendly foods like bottle gourd, ridge gourd, pumpkin, and barley.
• ✅ Stay hydrated but avoid excessive water intake if swelling persists.
• ✅ Practice gentle yoga and meditation to reduce stress.

4. Yoga & Breathing Techniques for CKD

• • Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Improves kidney function.
• • Mandukasana (Frog Pose): Stimulates the kidneys.
• • Pranayama (Breathing Exercises):
• ✔ Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Detoxifies the body.
• ✔ Bhramari (Bee Breathing): Reduces stress and supports kidney health.