Ayurvedic treatment for Glomerulonephritis

Causes

Multiple causes can result in glomerulonephritis. Common causes include:

·         Autoimmune diseases

·         Infection

·         High blood pressure or diabetes

·         Genetic predisposition

·         Persistent use of certain medications

In Ayurveda, these causes may relate to Ama (toxic excess) and disordered doshas, but particularly, Pitta (inflammation) and Kapha (excess fluids).

Symptoms

The signs of glomerulonephritis can be subtle at first but may worsen over time if not addressed. Common symptoms include:

• Swelling in the face, hands, feet, or abdomen
• Foamy or bubbly urine (a sign of excess protein)
• Blood in urine, giving it a pink, red, or cola-like color
• High blood pressure
• Fatigue and weakness
• Reduced urine output

Diagnosis

While Ayurveda focuses on pulse reading (Nadi Pariksha), tongue diagnosis, and understanding your lifestyle, modern tests are equally important to confirm glomerulonephritis. A doctor may suggest:

• Urine test – to check for blood or protein leakage
• Blood tests – to measure waste levels like creatinine and urea
• Imaging – such as ultrasound to view the kidney structure
• Biopsy – in some cases, to confirm the type and severity of inflammation

Ayurveda often works alongside these reports to create a tailored treatment plan.

Complications

If left untreated, glomerulonephritis can lead to serious kidney damage and even kidney failure. Other possible complications include:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Severe hypertension
• Fluid overload causing breathing problems
• Heart issues due to prolonged strain
• Imbalance of electrolytes in the body

Natural Treatment for Glomerulonephritis

Ayurvedic treatment for glomerulonephritis works to reduce inflammation, eliminate toxicities, and restore kidney function naturally. Some of the best herbs for glomerulonephritis treatment are:

·         Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) – known for countering edema and maintaining proper water balance.

·         Varun (Crataeva nurvala) – useful in dissolving obstructions in the urinary pathways.

·         Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) – helps with kidney filtration and aids in reducing inflammation.

·         Chandraprabha Vati – a classical Ayurvedic formulation for urinary tract and kidney health.

·         Palash (Butea monosperma) – Used for detoxifying and cleansing of the urinary tract.

·         Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki (Triphala) – aid in digestion, clear Ama, and balance doshas.

Herbs are usually prescribed in decoction, powder, or tablet form based on a full work-up of the patient's constitution. You should always discuss with your doctor before consuming any herb or medicine to treat glomerulonephritis.

Lifestyle Modifications

Ayurvedic treatment for glomerulonephritis works best when accompanied by mindful lifestyle behaviors. In the case of glomerulonephritis, often small incremental changes are manageable and provide benefits daily:

·         Eating light and nutritional foods – such as fresh vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and moong dal. Avoid processed and fried food and any heavy food.

·         Hydrating properly – depending on your physician’s advice to ensure drinking enough to achieve balance from either not enough hydration to fluid to excess.

·         Reducing salt consumption – to address blood pressure issues and swelling.

·         Practicing gentle yoga – asanas like Bhujangasana, Pawanmuktasana, and Vajrasana are supportive of healthy kidneys.

·         Manage stress – Meditation, pranayama, and herbal teas like tulsi-ginger can calm the mind.

·         Avoid overuse of painkillers or antibiotics – These can stress the kidneys further.

Conclusion

Glomerulonephritis can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. Ayurvedic glomerulonephritis treatment offers a gentle, holistic path that doesn’t just manage symptoms but works on the root cause, strengthens the kidneys, and restores the natural harmony of your body. With the right herbs, mindful eating, and balanced living, you can support your kidneys in healing and prevent future complications.