Lavender is an herb that the United States recognizes mostly by its soothing scent, stress-reducing impact, and being among the main essentials in oils, basted drinks, and herbal cures, to name a few. However, more and more Americans turning to natural and holistic methods for their health, the question comes up: Is lavender good for the kidneys?
The state of the kidneys is increasingly becoming a bitter pill to swallow in the USA, particularly with the growing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney stones, diabetes and high blood pressure. In this write-up, we will see if lavender can indeed act as a ‘friend’ to our kidneys, explore its potential benefits, how it works, and what precautions kidney patients should consider.
Understanding Lavender as a Medicinal Herb
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has been utilized as a medicinal herb for a long time and used in various herbal medicine systems such as traditional European and Indian therapies (Ayurveda). In the USA, lavender is frequently used for the following purposes:
- Relief from stress and anxiety
- Promotion of sleep and relaxation
- Assistance for digestion
- Relief from mild pain and inflammation
Linalool and linalyl acetate are some of the active compounds found in lavender which having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties are eliminated by lack of sleep.
Lavender is not a direct treatment for kidney disease but its indirect benefits may help in overall kidney health when used properly.
Is Lavender a Friend for Kidney Health?
The slight response is: Lavender can indirectly promote kidney health but it cannot cure kidney disease.
One way that lavender can assist the kidneys is by:
- Aiding in the Reduction of Stress that Affects Kidney Health
Long-lasting stress has a detrimental effect on blood pressure and hormones, which are ultimately responsible for kidney function. Lavender is one of the herbs that people use in the United States to manage and relax from stress.
- Lowering stress could be a way to control blood pressure
- Good blood pressure management leads to less strain on the kidneys
- Sleep improvement aids all the organs in being repaired
Lavender can be a nervous system calming agent which, in turn, may promote a healthy kidney function through a better environment.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is a widespread issue that leads to kidney impairment, especially in diseases such as CKD and urinary tract irritation. The anti-inflammatory properties of lavender could possibly help the body in getting rid of mild inflammation.
Lavender does not offer direct regeneration of kidney tissue, however, the reduction of systemic inflammation might in a way or another lead to the kidney being in a good condition in the long run.
- Antioxidant Support
Oxidative stress is a process that can cause death of kidney cells and such situations are common in people suffering from diabetes or high blood pressure. Lavender is an antioxidant-rich plant that helps the body to fight free radical damage.
Antioxidants:
- Prevent cell death caused by oxidative stresses
- Enhance organ health in general
- Possibly slow down age-related kidney stress
Thus, lavender turns out to be a mild and supportive herb rather than a direct one for the kidney medication.
- May Help with Urinary Comfort
Lavender is a traditional herbal practice by which it is considered working to support urinary comfort, because of its mild antibacterial and soothing effects; some people use lavender tea to help relax urinary muscles and promote comfort.
But, the use of lavender should not be thought to be a substitute for the treatment of UTIs, kidney infections, or stones.
Can Lavender Help Kidney Patients in the USA?
For kidney patients particularly in stage 1–3 CKD, lavender could be cautiously used as a complementary wellness herb. However, it is very important to be aware of its limits.
Lavender may be a help for:
- Stress and anxiety conditions in kidney patients
- Sleep deprivation due to CKD
- Maintaining emotional wellness
Lavender does not have the status of a remedy for:
- Advanced CKD
- Kidney failure
- Dialysis dependency
- Severe electrolyte imbalance
If you have kidney disease, you should always consult a doctor before using herbal remedies.
How to Use Lavender for Kidney Safety
- Lavender Tea (In Moderation
Lavender tea is one of the most popular preparations used in the USA.
Ways to prepare:
Use ½ to 1 teaspoon of dried lavender buds
In hot water for 5 to 10 minutes
Consume 1 cup, 2 to 3 times per week
Limit your intake if you have kidney disease, since it can be consumed on a daily basis if desired.
- Lavender Essential Oil (For External Use)
The best way to use lavender oil is externally.
If you are looking for
Common uses:
Aromatherapy and Stress Relief
Massage (with carrier oil)
Sleep support
Remember to avoid consumption of essential oils since these oils are toxic to the kidneys.
- Supplements of Lavender-use with Caution
Lavender supplements are available in the USA but not approved by the FDA for the treatment of kidneys. Certain supplements interfere with medication or put a burden on filtration by the kidneys.
Always consult with your doctor before taking supplements.
Is Lavender Safe for the Kidneys?
Generally, lavender is safe for all people who are the average of good health in small amounts; however, patients of kidneys should be cautious.
Potential risks include
- Excessive use may stress kidney filtration
- Possible interaction with blood pressure or sedative medications
- Contraindicated in pregnancy except on medical advice.
If you have:
- CKD – Chronic kidney disease
- Kidney stones
- Diabetes or hypertension
Consult a nephrologist or health care professional before using lavender on a regular basis.
Lavender vs Other Kidney-Friendly Herbs
Lavenders compared to herbs such as punarnava, coriander seeds, or even dandelion do not have prominent kidney purification properties. It is its ability to reduce stress or combat inflammation that makes it beneficial for the kidneys.
Lavender works best in conjunction with an holistic lifestyle:
- Renal diet
- Adequate hydration
- Blood pressure management
- Medical supervision
Conclusion: Is Lavender Good for the Kidneys?
This is not direct treatment to the kidneys but helps in the indirect ways for the kidneys.
Take-Aways for Readers in the USA:
- Lavender can be used to reduce stress and inflammation.
- It acts upon the overall wellness and not kidney repair.
- safe in moderation for healthy people
- It should be used by kidney patients only under medical guidance.
If you are looking for natural ways to support kidney health, lavender can be a gentle addition, but it should never replace medical care or prescribed treatment.