AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVES ON KIDNEY HEALTH: INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES TO RENAL DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Renal diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetic nephropathy, and nephrolithiasis, represent a significant and escalating global health burden. Despite advances in conventional nephrology, limitations persist in early detection, prevention, and long-term management. This review explores Ayurvedic perspectives on kidney health and evaluates the potential role of integrative approaches in renal disease management. Classical Ayurvedic concepts of Vrikka, Mutravaha Srotas, Tridosha, Agni, Ama and Dhatu-poshana can be used as a systems-based model of renal physiology and pathogenesis. Renal disorders are explained as having been caused by the imbalance of the Nidana, blocked metabolism, and blocked channels which are similar to the modern day processes, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. The nephroprotective properties of many Ayurvedic botanicals have been supported by preclinical evidence that shows these Ayurvedic botanicals have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective properties in experimental models. There is an increasingly growing number of clinical studies that find potential benefits in CKD, diabetic nephropathy and urinary stone disease but due to methodological heterogeneity and a lack of large scale trials, no definitive conclusions can be made. Safety considerations—including herb–drug interactions, nephrotoxicity risk, and quality control challenges such as heavy metal contamination—highlight the importance of pharmacovigilance and regulatory oversight. Integrative models combining Ayurvedic principles with guideline-based nephrology may offer complementary benefits, particularly in early-stage disease, prevention, and symptom management. Personalized approaches grounded in constitutional profiling align with contemporary precision medicine frameworks.