Kidney & Urinary Disorders

In Ayurveda, the urinary system is governed by Mutravaha Srotas (urinary channels) and primarily influenced by Apana Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. When these doshas are imbalanced due to dietary habits, dehydration, infections, or sedentary lifestyle, various urinary and kidney disorders can arise, such as:

  • Kidney Stones (Ashmari) – Caused by aggravated Vata, Pitta, and Kapha creating crystallized deposits in the urinary tract

  • Urinary Tract Infections – UTI (Mutrakrichra) – Due to aggravated Pitta causing burning, inflammation, and pain during urination

  • Frequent or Recurrent Urination (Prameha / Mutra Atipravritti) – Often linked with Kapha imbalance and weak urinary muscles or metabolism

1. Mutra Virechana – Ayurvedic Diuretic & Detox Therapy

What it means:

“Mutra Virechana” refers to cleansing and promoting the flow of urine using herbal medications that stimulate diuresis (urine formation and expulsion).

Key Herbs Used:

  • Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris): Strengthens the urinary tract, reduces inflammation

  • Varuna (Crataeva nurvala): Breaks down and prevents kidney stones

  • Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-swelling

  • Pashanabheda (Bergenia ligulata): Literally means “stone breaker”, used for kidney stones

  • Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Detoxifier and immunity booster

Benefits:

  • Increases urine flow to flush out toxins, infections, or small stones

  • Reduces inflammation and relieves burning sensation during urination

  • Clears blockages in the Mutravaha Srotas

  • Prevents recurrence of UTIs and stone formation

2. Herbal Diuretics (Mutrala Dravyas)

These are natural herbs that support the kidney’s filtration process and urine output without harming electrolyte balance, unlike synthetic diuretics.

Formulations May Include:

  • Chandraprabha Vati – A classical compound used for a range of urinary disorders

  • Gokshuradi Guggulu – Helps with urinary infections and prostate issues

  • Trinapanchamoola Kashaya – A decoction made from five grass roots with strong diuretic properties

  • Yavakshara – An alkali preparation for dissolving crystals and relieving pain

Benefits:

  • Supports natural urine flow

  • Reduces swelling (edema) and fluid retention

  • Eases urinary discomfort, helps in flushing out bacteria

  • Helps dissolve or prevent formation of kidney stones

3. Rasayana Therapy – Rejuvenation for Long-Term Kidney Health

Rasayana in Ayurveda refers to rejuvenative therapies that nourish and strengthen body tissues (dhatus), especially important in chronic or recurrent conditions.

Purpose in Urinary/Kidney Disorders:

  • Restore strength to weakened kidneys and bladder

  • Enhance immunity to prevent recurrent infections

  • Rejuvenate urinary tissues damaged by chronic UTI or inflammation

Key Rasayana Herbs:

  • Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry): Rejuvenates urinary tissues and boosts immunity

  • Ashwagandha: Strengthens muscles and supports adrenal/kidney health

  • Shilajit: Detoxifying, revitalizing, and supports urinary tract tone

  • Guduchi: Rejuvenates and balances immunity

Benefits:

  • Reduces risk of recurrence

  • Restores Ojas (vital energy)

  • Promotes tissue repair and detoxification

  • Improves quality of life in chronic sufferers