Kidney, Gallbladder and Pancreas Care Kidney, Gallbladder and Pancreas Care
Kidney, Gallbladder and Pancreas Car... 
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Kidney, Gallbladder and Pancreas Care
by Jon Barron
Kidney detox and maintenance has always been part of the Baseline of Health Program. So far, I have not used a dedicated formula for this purpose, because if you’re doing the full Program, you’re covering the kidneys – particularly when doing the liver detox. As it turns out, a number of herbs (chanca piedra, juniper berry, uva ursi, parsley root, dandelion root, and horsetail) are common to both kidney and liver maintenance. Nevertheless, as the incidence of kidney problems has soared to epidemic levels over the last ten years, the need for a stonger, dedicated formula for doing a regular kidney flush has become paramount. In addition, as you will see, such a formula also can play a major role in eliminating gallstones and, amazingly, even helping with arthritis.
But first, let’s explore some background on the kidneys and the extent of the problem in the world today.
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located on either side of the lower back, just below the rib cage. Their function is to:
After blood is filtered through the kidneys, the primary byproduct is urine. The production of urine is a complex process. Far from being a simple removal of water from the body, it is, rather, a process of selective filtration that not only removes waste and potential toxins from the blood while retaining essential molecules, but that also serves to balance key biochemicals and hormones in the blood. Blood enters the kidneys by way of the renal artery and is processed in tiny tubes called nephrons and returned to circulation through the renal veins. The substances that are filtered are turned into urine, composed of 95% water, 2.5% urea, 2.5% mixture of minerals, salt, hormones and enzymes. Urine is then collected in the central part of the kidney and passes through the ureters to the bladder. When the bladder is full of urine, it is emptied from the body through the urethra. Approximately 180 liters of blood move through the two kidneys every day, about 1.5 liters of urine are produced.
In addition to cleaning the blood, the kidneys regulate the amount of water contained in the blood. ADH (Vasopressin) is an anti-diuretic hormone produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland. When the amount of salt and other substances in the blood becomes too high, the pituitary glands release ADH into the bloodstream and to the kidneys. This increases the permeability of the walls of the renal tubules, helping to reabsorb more water into the blood stream. The kidneys also adjust the body's acid-base balance to prevent acidosis and alkalosis.
Another function of the kidneys is the processing of vitamin D. The kidneys convert this vitamin to an active form that stimulates bone development.
As mentioned above, the processing (or filtering) in the kidneys is done in the nephrons. Not surprisingly then, most kidney problems are focused in the nephrons, and correspondingly, most kidney drugs target the nephrons. For example, most diuretics inhibit the ability of the nephrons to retain water, thereby increasing the amount of urine produced.
The important thing to understand about the nephrons is that they are very, very tiny – and therefore easily plugged. When plugged, they become inflamed and infected and die. Also, because they are so small they are easily damaged by chemical imbalances in the blood that attack protein – specifically, high blood sugar and high insulin – which is why diabetes and kidney disease go hand in hand. The bottom line is that over time, when enough nephrons die, kidney function is compromised to the point that the kidneys can no longer do their job. At that point they require outside support (i.e. dialysis) or outright replacement (a kidney transplant).
For a full explanation of the anatomy of nephrons and how they work, check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nephron.
Diseases of the kidneys range from mild infection to life-threatening kidney failure. The most common form of kidney disease is an inflammation of the kidneys. Kidney sludge is the result of the accumulated crystallized minerals that sometimes obstruct the flow of urine and damage the kidneys. If the minerals accumulate to a sufficient degree, the sludge actually forms into rough surfaced stones that actually rip and tear at the ureters on their way out of the kidneys.
Anyone who suffers from kidney stones knows the pain involved in passing a stone, but keep in mind that a kidney stone is only the extreme manifestation of sludge. Just because you don’t suffer from kidney stones doesn’t mean you don’t have a problem. Kidney sludge may not be painful passing out the ureter, but it is nevertheless deadly over time as it slowly chokes off kidney function nephron by nephron.
How extensive is the problem? Virtually, every living person has some degree of sludge build up and some loss of kidney function over time. The only question is how much. Does it reach the point where it causes painful kidney stones to form or the point where it chokes off a critical mass of kidney tissue, ultimately leading to kidney failure.
It should be noted that although kidney stones and gallstones are not identical, the mechanisms involved in their formation are remarkably similar. This means that the same formulas used for eliminating kidney sludge and kidney stones will also help remove gallstones – and for that matter, even help with removing pancreatic sludge and arthritic calcium deposits in joints.
Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to keep the blood balanced. In acute kidney failure, symptoms include swelling, drowsiness, and irregular heartbeat. In chronic kidney failure, symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, headaches, cramps and thirst.
In addition to sludge, the other major kidney problems are connected to infection, inflammation, and direct damage to the protein that makes up the kidney tissue as a result of high sugar and high insulin levels.
The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse estimates that each year, nearly 100,000 Americans are newly diagnosed with kidney failure. More than 100,000 currently have End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) due to diabetes, and an astounding 7.7 million have physiological evidence of chronic kidney disease. (1) According to the U.S. Health and Human Services Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, an estimated 650,000 Americans will have kidney failure by 2010 and will require renal replacement therapy, either ongoing renal dialysis or a kidney transplant. (2) Without one of these therapies, ESRD is fatal. Yikes!
Fortunately, it's good to know there are ways to keep your kidneys healthy to avoid going down that road.
Paramount to good care of the kidneys is reducing the toxic load they have to deal with, especially proteins and chemical contaminants which can build up in the kidneys, slowing their function, increasing acidity and raising blood pressure. So, consider lightening the diet--instead of eating meat every day, try going vegetarian for a day or so a week. A vegetable/fruit-based diet allows the body system to alkalinize via the kidneys, lowering blood pressure, and contributing to a sense of well-being. Also, drinking enough water so that the urine is a light color of yellow. A whole lot of water is not necessarily good for the kidneys, and it is always better to drink small amounts of water throughout the day, rather than gulping down a quart or two because you're thirsty. This just creates kidney stress.
The regular use of a kidney cleansing and rebuilding formula is now mandatory considering the stresses we put our kidneys under thanks to our “modern” lifestyles. A good kidney formula/s will include most of the following properties and ingredients.
Different stones in the body have different chemical make-ups.
For example, gallstones are primarily formed from cholesterol, bile salts, and proteins. The more protein, the harder the stones. Think of it like the protein used to make fingernails. Incidentally, this protein primarily comes from the lining of the gallbladder. In other words, although stones get their start in the liver, they turn problematic in the gallbladder – which is why removing the gallbladder gets rid of symptoms, but not necessarily the underlying problem, which starts in the liver.
Pancreatic stones are formed from fatty acids, calcium, and proteins.
And kidney stones themselves vary significantly. There are four types.
The important thing to understand is that although all of the above types of stones have different chemical compositions, most of them can be dissolved by the right combination of herbs in a single formula.
For a number of years now, I have recommended using chanca piedra before liver detoxing to soften gallstones before trying to pass them during the detox. Chanca piedra works equally well on gallstones, kidney stones, and kidney sludge. In fact, the name chanca piedra, as it is known in Peru, comes from its effect on kidney stones and gallstones. The literal translation is “stone breaker.” It effectively softens both kidney stones and gallstones for easy passage out of the body. It is also renowned for its diuretic qualities and has been shown effective at helping relieve edema and urine retention. It also works as an anti-inflammatory agent in the kidneys and as an antihepatotoxic in the liver. That is to say, it counters the effects of toxins in the liver.
References (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
The most common use for hydrangea is for the kidneys and bladder because of its effective diuretic property which helps increase the flow of urine. This removes impurities from the system and lessens the likelihood of infection along the entire urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, bladder, prostate (in men) and urethra. Hydrangea, like chanca piedra, is also considered an anti-lithic herb, which prevents stones or gravel from forming in the kidneys and bladder. As an anti-lithic herb, it can also assist the body in removing stones and gravel from these organs. This was a primary use of hydrangea by Native Americans.
Like most diuretic herbs, hydrangea is an excellent choice for treating inflamed or enlarged prostate glands. It is commonly combined with horsetail for this purpose. Maintaining healthy urine flow keeps the prostate less likely to constrict around the urethra, which prevents stagnant urine from causing more infection. This can also reduce inflammation by eliminating impurities from the prostate.
A scientific study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry in 2003 noted that hydrangea root extracts have greater antioxidant power in liver tissue than milk thistle and turmeric combined. The findings of Japanese researchers amplify observations of nineteenth-century American physicians who used hydrangea primarily as a treatment for "kidney gravel," small stones in the kidneys that could be passed with a minimum of pain after treatment with the herb. Physicians of the time also used hydrangea as a treatment for chronic chest pain caused by bronchitis. Hydrangea root powder has a greater diuretic effect than other preparations of the herb , but it has less of an effect on pain.
Like chanca piedra and hydrangea, gravel root also exhibits both diuretic and anti-lithic properties. Used primarily for kidney stones or gravel (which accounts for its name), it also helps with cystitis, dysuria, urethritis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. It can also play a role in the systemic treatment of rheumatism and gout as it encourages excretion of excess uric acid. And finally, it tones the reproductive tract and is used to treat inflammation of the prostate.
References (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19)
Marshmallow's highest medicinal acclaim is as a demulcent. Internally it has a soothing effect on inflamed and irritated tissues of the alimentary canal, and urinary and respiratory organs. It aids in the passage of kidney stones and is used in combination with other diuretic herbs for kidney treatments which assist in the release of gravel and stones. It works very well for urinary problems.
Marshmallow has factors which combine with and eliminate toxins, helping the body to cleanse. This makes marshmallow an excellent herb to add to other formulas to help neutralize toxins that are the causative factors of arthritis.
Marshmallow is also very soothing to any sore or inflamed part(s) of the body. As well as the urinary tract, this herb will soothe an irritated digestive tract and help with diarrhea or dysentery.
Juniper Berries are used to treat infections, especially within the urinary tract, bladder, kidneys, and prostate. Their antiseptic properties help remove waste and acidic toxins from the body, stimulating a fighting action against bacterial and yeast infections. Juniper Berries also help increase the flow of digestive fluids, improving digestion and eliminating gas and stomach cramping. As a diuretic, Juniper Berries eliminate excess water retention contributing to weight loss. Juniper Berries' anti-inflammatory properties are ideal for relieving pain and inflammation related to rheumatism and arthritis. In addition, Juniper Berries are beneficial in reducing congestion, as well as treating asthma and colds. Juniper Berries make an excellent antiseptic in conditions such as cystitis. But the essential oil present in this herb is quite stimulating to the kidney nephrons. Some texts warn that juniper oil may be a kidney irritant at higher doses, but there is no real evidence that this is the case, and the dosage in this formula is quite low. Nonetheless, people with serious kidney disease probably shouldn't take juniper.
Contemporary herbalists primarily use juniper as a diuretic ("water pill") component of herbal formulas designed to treat bladder infections . The volatile oils of juniper reportedly increase the rate of kidney filtration, thereby increasing urine flow and perhaps helping to "wash out" offending bacteria. The volatile oils, particularly terpinen-4-ol, may cause an increase in urine volume. According to some sources, juniper increases urine volume without a loss of electrolytes such as potassium. It is recommended by the German Commission E for kidney ailments.
References (22, 23, 24, 25, 26)
Corn silk is a soothing diuretic and works as an excellent remedy for urinary conditions such as retained urine, burning urine, kidney stones, bladder infections, gonorrhea, and as a lymphatic system cleanser. Corn Silk is used to treat bladder infections, kidney stones, infections of the prostate gland, and urinary infections.
The chief constituent of Uva Ursi is a glycoside called arbutin. This is what is responsible for its diuretic action. During its excretion arbutin produces an antiseptic effect on the urinary mucous membrane and can therefore help eliminate urinary tract infections. Tannic acid is also contained in the leaves. This herb also helps to keep the pH balance of urine from being too acid. It actually strengthens the lining of the urinary tract and helps to relieve any inflammation in the system. It has a direct sedative effect on the bladder walls. Allantoin, also found in Uva Ursi spurs the healing of wounds. For chronic inflammation of the bladder or kidneys Uva Ursi has no equal. Two studies report that urine from individuals given uva ursi is active against the most commonly involved bacteria in bladder and urinary tract infection.
This study supports the results of a double blind study of 57 women with recurrent cystitis. After one year, the placebo group had 20% incidence of recurring cystitis, whereas the uva ursi group had no recurring infection.
In addition it has anti-lithic properties that help in dissolving crystals not just in the kidneys, but throughout the body as well. It has, therefore, been used for arthritis and other painful joint problems.
An important diuretic, parsley root also helps clear uric acid from the urinary tract and helps dissolve and expel gallstones and gravel – and prevent their future formation. It also inhibits the secretion of histamine and is therefore useful in treating hives and relieving other allergy symptoms. A decoction of parsley root can help eliminate bloating and reduce weight by eliminating excess water gain. Note: the German Commission E, an advisory panel on herbal medicines, has approved parsley for use in the prevention and treatment of kidney stones.
Carrot tops are an under-appreciated source of relief for all sorts of urinary tract problems and symptoms. The Amish swear by it, dedicating significant acreage to carrots just for this reason. Carrot Top Tea can clear up skin blemishes, flush the kidneys and bladder, and clean the blood of toxins.</ p>
Carrot tops are also helpful in clearing the kidneys and urinary tract (as well as the prostate). They are also highly alkalizing to the blood, taking stress off the kidneys.
Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for centuries to treat liver, gall bladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some countries, Dandelion is considered a blood purifier and is used for ailments such as eczema and cancer. It has also been used to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver such as hepatitis.
Dandelion leaf is also a good natural source of potassium, and will replenish any potassium that may be lost due to the diuretic action of the other herbs in this formula.
Studies show beneficial effects of dandelion on reducing urinary tract gravel, attributed to disinfectant action and possibly the presence of saponins. Dandelion has also been used traditionally to treat respiratory disorders. Dr. James Duke notes in his book, The Green Pharmacy, that numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of dandelion leaves and root for treating pneumonia, bronchitis and upper respiratory infections. Dr. Duke recommends drinking the juice that remains after the greens have been cooked. The German Pharmacopoeia lists dandelion leaf and root for treating gastrointestinal complaints stemming from bile deficiency, as well as to stimulate appetite and diuresis. Dandelion was also used in folk medicine to ease painful joint and bone conditions. The tea reduces water retention and is considered a traditional blood purifier. The diuretic effect is also useful for reducing swelling.
Horsetail has not been extensively studied in people, but professional herbalists recognize that the herb has diuretic (promotes the excretion of urine) properties that may be useful for the following health problems:
References (39, 40, 41, 42, 43)
Limonene and flavonoids found in orange peel seem to have anti-carcinogenic properties. They can block the carcinogenesis by acting as a blocking agent. Studies have shown that limonin and limonene can induce the enzyme activity of glutathione S-transferase, which is an important detoxifying enzyme.
In addition, orange peel has antiseptic, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties.
Peppermint has a relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive and urinary system. It is useful for treating spasm problems in the urinary tract. It also has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties which help rid the kidneys of bacteria.
Three double-blind trials found that enteric-coated peppermint oil reduced the pain associated with intestinal spasms, commonly experienced in IBS.
Goldenrod is used as an aquaretic agent, meaning that it promotes the loss of water from the body (as compared to a diuretic, which promotes the loss of both water and electrolytes such as salt). It is used frequently in Europe to treat urinary tract inflammation and to prevent or treat kidney stones. In fact, goldenrod has received official recognition in Germany for its effectiveness in getting rid of kidney stones, and itis commonly found in teas to help "flush out" kidney stones and stop inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract. Goldenrod is said to wash out bacteria and kidney stones by increasing the flow of urine, and also, soothe inflamed tissues and calm muscle spasms in the urinary tract. It isn't used as a cure in itself, but rather as an adjunct to other, more definitive treatments such as (in the case of bladder infections) antibiotics.
Several studies have found that goldenrod does in fact increase urine flow.
References (50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55)
Since everyone accumulates sludge in their kidneys and livers, everyone is a candidate for regular use of this formula. Even people who have had their gallbladders removed will benefit. Regular softening and flushing of stones and gravel will keep your kidneys, liver, and gallbladder functioning at optimum levels and, more importantly, keep areas of those organs from choking to death and becoming non-functional. The sooner you start in life the better, but certainly the older you get, the more mandatory regular use becomes.
And as for anyone already suffering from painful kidney stones or gallstones, this formula can be a godsend. Whereas medical doctors can offer only surgery or expensive lithotripsy procedures (which are also not without risk), this formula offers a safe, highly effective alternative – that can work with remarkable speed. Painful kidney stones and gallstones can usually soften enough for easy passage in as little as 2-8 days. And regular use of the formula can prevent any recurrence.
Use 4-8 droppers in diluted juice three times a day until bottle is gone.
Take 4 ounces of this formula and mix with a quart of fresh squeezed apple juice (not bottled) and a quart of water. Drink a pint each day over 4 days.
For most people, doing this program twice a year should be enough to keep the kidneys functioning properly. An ideal time to do this program is shortly before doing a liver detox. Again, the same herbs that soften kidney stones for easy passage will also soften gallbladder stones. Using this formula shortly before doing the liver detox will greatly reduce the likelihood of discomfort when doing the liver detox.
For those who have a predilection to getting kidney stones or gallstones, this program can be done once a month to minimize the chances of any future occurrence.
If you have currently existing painful kidney or gallstones, you probably will want to mix up two batches and drink it for 8 straight days.
Do not do more than once a month on a regular basis as the diuretic effect may deplete the body of essential water soluble vitamins and minerals over time.
Note: If using in preparation for the liver detox, make sure you use within 30 days of starting the detox so the gallstones don't get a chance to reharden before flushing.
Warning: The diuretic effects of this formula may enhance the toxic effects of certain medications, such as digoxin (used to treat congestive heart failure), phenytoin (for seizures), anticoagulants, and others. For this reason, people taking prescription medications should not use this formula without first consulting a health care provider. Also, anyone with severe kidney problems should not use this formula without first consulting their physician.
There was never any question that this formula would work for many people. I’ve used variations and pieces of it for years, and some of the herbs have been time tested over decades, if not several centuries. But I wanted to see if this version of the formula was indeed stronger than anything I had put together before – after all, that was the intent. I needed an extreme test case. I decided to test it with Patty C., someone with a known, long-standing kidney condition, to see if it would help…and do so quickly. If you're interested in reading her experiences with the formula, click here.
I am not sure offhand where to find all of those, but it would be my guess that Google searches and such would find them/
Another option would be to go to the company that Jon Barron licenses to sell his formulas. There is a link to it on most pages on my site (yes, I am an affiliate as Jon's products though a bit pricier than some others, are among my favorites).
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