"URINE FOR IT... YOU'RE IN FOR IT"
Hydraulics and Herbs [Part Five]
My first experience “passing medications” as a nursing student involved my middle aged male patient who was being treated with a urinary tract infection. I can still remember his face after all these years. I remember studying about all the ramifications of having an infection of the kidneys and bladder and the medications I gave him. Through the years, I have modified my approach- emphasizing prevention as well as treatment. Though methods of treatment have changed somewhat; the anatomy of the urinary tract is still the same.
So many of the interactions of our body- both general and at the cellular level involve pressure gradients. [See TEH 9-14 and my website for “Your Sump”] Hydraulics is the constant need to equalize pressure in the world and in our bodies. In this the fifth of the Hydraulic series; we will discuss the importance of hydraulic pressure in the Urinary system- primarily in the kidneys. We will talk about how important it is to keep the flow of blood to the kidneys fresh and regular; and we will discuss the Herbs that help the Urinary system perform proficiently.
Our Urinary system consists of Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder and Urethra; and the blood/ nerve supply that supports them. Two kidneys are situated in what is known as the “retroperitoneal space” of the body. They are behind the abdomen at the juncture of the spine and ribcage on either side. Because of the liver, the right kidney is a bit lower than the left kidney. Atop both kidneys sit the Adrenal glands- like little hats. Connecting each kidney to the Urinary Bladder (different from the “gall” bladder behind the liver) is one of two tiny, muscular tubes called a Ureter. The Ureters are about 10-12 inches in length and have muscular walls that pull urine from the kidney down into the bladder. If you have ever had a kidney stone you “appreciate” the muscular peristaltic waves as these tiny tubes endeavor to pull the sharp stone along. The Bladder is constructed somewhat like the stomach, in that the inner layer is comprised of rugae (thick folds of tissue that expand like an accordion with urine volume- increasing the surface area available for storage.) One Urethra then connects the bottom of the Bladder to the outside. For obvious reasons, the length of the Urethra is longer in males (7-8”) than in females (1.5”). The prostate gland in males surrounds the top of the urethra as it descends from the bladder in males. Aging causes overgrowth of the prostate gland.
So, overall- the Urinary system is “Y” shaped- with each of two kidneys at the top of the “Y” – the Ureters coming down to the Urinary Bladder at the juncture of the “Y”- and the Urethra connecting the juncture of the “Y” to the outside.
Basically, the Kidneys make urine and the Bladder stores urine until it is eliminated.
We should mention here, that in Traditional Chinese Medicine, the kidneys are our most yin organs. Known as the “Minister of Power,” they store our energy and immunity influence. TCM recognizes that the kidneys store prenatal energy donated by our parents. Thus, they are also called the “Root of Life.” Seasonally, the kidneys are represented by winter, the most yin of seasons. They represent the water element and they present to the senses by our ears. Winter is the time for introspection; for rest and storing energy. It is the time to warm and support the kidneys. TCM includes the Adrenal glands and the testicles in males/ the ovaries in females as the “external kidneys.” As such, they are said to not only filter the blood of waste materials regulating body pH; but also present the main source of sexual vitality. Psycho – Emotional reflection of TCM shows that with healthy kidneys you display wisdom, self-understanding, and a gentle nature with rational thinking. The opposite of this (yin deficiency) is that of having a fearful nature, insecurity, and loneliness. Symptoms of Kidney Yin deficiency are those that show that internal fluids are inadequate and those that show heat and inflammation, like dry mouth, fever, ringing in the ears, constipation, and pain.
Your kidneys have a rich blood supply. They are situated in place by the ribs and the muscles of the back and protected by a layer of fat surrounding the fascial capsule. If you have ever seen kidneys at the grocery store, you will remember that they have a dent in one side halfway between the top and the bottom. This is where blood from the body enters via the renal artery and leaves the kidney via the renal vein. It is also where urine begins its decent through the ureter. (As much as 1/3 of all blood leaving the heart passes into the kidneys to be filtered before flowing to the rest of the body’s tissues.)
Within the kidney, the “Nephron” kidney cells- filter blood and produce urine- then send clean blood back through the Renal vein to the rest of the body. Each kidney contains around one million individual nephrons! These tiny capsules function by pressure gradients> the larger surrounding arteriole pressing blood through the filtrating core of the nephron, while a smaller arteriole receives filtered blood. Once again HYDRAULICS on the cellular level! From the arterial network, products of filtration drain through a series of micro tubules that reabsorb water and nutrients and direct them to collecting basins near the ureter- (Somewhat like the collecting tubes of a distillery.) Within this micro-network, the work of the kidneys- filtering blood- is affected by what the blood contains as it passes through. Can you see how a lifetime of forcing large sugar molecules through the nephrons could destroy them? Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure in the United States. Hypertension elevates your risk of kidney failure because it distorts the pressure gradient in the nephrons over time.
Your kidneys, with your liver, are your defense against toxic overload. When we’re young, we just do not consider how much we challenge these tender organs. After a while, it becomes hard to change eating, drinking, and activity habits. It’s important to note that 60-70% of kidney function can be lost before we even have symptoms that our kidneys may be failing.
Your Kidneys work with the liver, the lungs, the skin and the bowels to clean the blood and eliminate toxins. They maintain water balance and help maintain blood pH. What does this mean? The “H” in pH stands for hydrogen. Increased hydrogen in the blood means that the blood (and tissues) are more acidic. When your blood is acidic, you are prone to inflammation throughout your body in the form of arthritis, vasculitis, fibromyalgia, and cancer. Your kidneys work constantly to maintain a neutral pH. They “borrow” calcium from your bones to neutralize blood acid. Calcium in the urine often manifests as kidney stones and bone deficiency. Maintenance of water volume controls blood pressure (releasing 400 to 2,000 ml of urine/day.) One other function of the Kidneys is the release of the protein erythropoietin, which stimulates bone marrow production of red blood cells. You can see that Kidney function goes to our deepest core: our Yin.
If you have a family member with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or elevated cholesterol; chances are that you, too, are slowly being affected by these conditions. Families usually form similar habits of eating, drinking and activity; and genetics plays its part. Once again, look at yourself in the mirror. This is the easiest way to notice if you are in good health. Look at your eyes. Do they reflect the twinkle of life? Are the whites of your eyes white? Do you have enough tears? Look at your skin- it is a mirror of your well-being. Sure, we see changes as we age: spots, wrinkles, and sags… But look at the color: Pale? Flushed? Yellow? Your skin can tell you a lot about how your whole body is fairing. Stick out your tongue. Is it pale, bright red, dry, cracked? Do you see tiny dents along the edge from your teeth? Your tongue is a map of your body and you can learn a great deal from it. None of us is satisfied with the way our bodies look, but carrying extra weight ages not only our muscles but also our internal organs. Remember, our kidneys are the seat of immunity and energy. If any of your organs are in trouble; your kidneys are in trouble.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE URINARY SYSTEM
Blockage:
-Of the Nephrons caused by high blood pressures, large molecules (sugar) and dehydration.
-Of the Elimination system caused by mineral Stones, Swelling of the Prostate, Prolapse of organs due to flaccid muscular structure, and Cancer.
Inflammation:
-Of the Mucous Membranes lining the system. Names you may recall are Nephritis, Ureteritis, Cystitis, Prostatitis, and Urethritis.
Pain: In the back, sides, groin, or abdomen.
Bleeding: From Injury or Inflammation
HERBS THAT HELP THE URINARY SYSTEM
Blockage: Antilithics dissolve stones; Anti-inflammatories; Antispasmodics decrease spasms; Demulcents soothe.
Inflammation: Anti-inflammatories; Antispasmodics; Antimicrobials help to rid the system of toxins; Diuretics increase the flow of urine- flushing the system; Diaphoretics increase sweating.
Pain: Anti-inflammatories; Antispasmodics, Antimicrobials.
Bleeding: Astringents constrict vessels to staunch bleeding; Anti-inflammatories; Antimicrobials.
SPECIFIC HERBS [A practicing Herbalist can help you with choosing what is best for you!]
Agrimony- Astringent; Tones mucosa; Relieves Kidney pain.
Asparagus- Diuretic; Demulcent; Healing to the Kidneys.
Bearberry leaf/ Uva-Ursi- Mild Diuretic and Astringent. As such is useful with inflammation of mucous membranes- especially with Candida and E. coli. Useful also with interstitial Cystitis, which is inflammation of the underlying tissues as well as the mucous membranes of the bladder. Tones and strengthens the passages- relieving pain during passage of kidney stones. Cleanses the kidneys.
Buchu- Chronic rather than Acute conditions. Scalding Urine.
Celery Root / Seeds- Natural Diuretic. Eliminates toxins by increasing urine outputs. Anti-inflammatory. Antispasmodic. Stimulates the kidneys.
Cleavers- Diuretic. Anti-Inflammatory. Astringent. Moves Lymph.
Cornsilk- Diuretic. Demulcent. Anti-inflammatory.
Couchgrass- Antilithic; Demulcent.
Fennel- Antispasmodic; “Bedwetting.”
Goldenrod – Anti-inflammatory, to prevent and treat kidney stones. Used in teas to flush out the system. It is diuretic and astringent. Used to treat chronic kidney disease and cystitis. Saponins found in Goldenrod are effective against Candida and E. coli. “Exhausted Kidneys.”
Hops- Antispasmodic. Antimicrobial. Astringent. Sedative. Hypnotic. “Drink a six-pack” when you first notice symptoms of Kidney stone pain. The hops smooths out spasms, and calms; while the extra fluid helps flush out the stone. [Aforementioned comes with regularly issued precautions.]
Horsetail- Diuretic; Increases urine volume- flushing the system. Astringent. Anti-inflammatory.
Hydrangea- Dissolves Kidney Stones. Popular among Native Americans acts as a solvent, smooths edges of jagged kidney stones. Augments the body’s use of calcium discouraging formation of kidney stones. Tommie Bass remedy: “Hydrangea capsules hourly. Ten lemons in 1 gallon of water.”
Joe Pye Weed/ Gravel Root- Protects the kidney membranes against passage of crystals through them. Stones from Uric Acid, Calcium oxalate, Calcium phosphate, and Sugar crystals.
Lovage- Anti-inflammatory; Diuretic; Moves stones.
Marshmallow Root- Gentle diuretic. Demulcent; Soothes mucous membranes. Used in combination with other Herbs in formula.
Parsley- Anti- inflammatory; Eaten fresh in quantity or taken as tea to flush the system; acts as Diuretic. Demulcent; Soothing. Adrenal Tonic.
Pipsissewa- Renal antiseptic specific for swollen prostate and Chronic Renal infections.
Saw Palmetto- Interferes with the enzyme that causes Prostate enlargement.
Stinging Nettle Leaf and Root- Leaf as a Demulcent, soothes the mucous membranes. Root treats prostate problems. Boosts immunity of the urinary tract and helps fight infection. Rich in lignans and antioxidants that support the walls of both the kidneys and the bladder. Helps flush out bacteria and toxins by increasing urine volume. Nutritive Tonic. Eliminates proteinaceous waste. [Helpful with “Getting off dialysis.”]
Watermelon Flesh / Seeds- Flesh is Cooling; Demulcent. Seeds Diuretic. Tea of seeds Demulcent. Detoxifies. “Binds Stool-Loosens Kidneys.” [Kathleen Maier]
NURTURE YOUR KIDNEYS!
We have often discussed healthy ways to help us live well. I think that we take for granted the bodies we have. We eat to satisfy our cravings; burn the candle at both ends; and live less than active lifestyles. I say “we” because I am guilty too. The problem with moving one day to the next –“same old; same old”- is that we can have lost 70-90% of our kidney function before we know it. By that time, there is no turning back!
Think about the following things and try to initiate them in your lives:
* Don’t be afraid of your reflection in the mirror. Seek it out – it is a reflection of your internal status, too.
* Listen to your “Body Talk.” You have been living in this body your whole life. You know when something is wrong. You have to take responsibility for learning the most about why your body functions this way. Your physician/ caregiver cannot possibly know you better than you know yourself. You also have to take responsibility to change patterns that you realize are destructive to you.
* In our culture, “being old” lasts a long time before you die. How much of that time do you wish to be debilitated? Loss of Kidney function is debilitating. You can take steps now to insure that you are not old before your time. Having adequate Yin not only sustains but protects you.
* Change “Bad” Habits. You know what they are.
* Two things that can change your life right now:
Drink HALF your body weight in ounces of water per day.
Restrict consumption of animal protein in your diet. Just DO it!
It could be that “Urine for Trouble” or maybe you’re in for great health!
BIBLIOGRAPHY
MEDICAL HERBALISM The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine
[David Hoffmann]
THE EARTHWISE HERBAL A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants
THE EARTHWISE HERBAL A Complete Guide to New World Medicinal Plants
[Matthew Wood]
My first experience “passing medications” as a nursing student involved my middle aged male patient who was being treated with a urinary tract infection. I can still remember his face after all these years. I remember studying about all the ramifications of having an infection of the kidneys and bladder and the medications I gave him. Through the years, I have modified my approach- emphasizing prevention as well as treatment. Though methods of treatment have changed somewhat; the anatomy of the urinary tract is still the same.
So many of the interactions of our body- both general and at the cellular level involve pressure gradients. [See TEH 9-14 and my website for “Your Sump”] Hydraulics is the constant need to equalize pressure in the world and in our bodies. In this the fifth of the Hydraulic series; we will discuss the importance of hydraulic pressure in the Urinary system- primarily in the kidneys. We will talk about how important it is to keep the flow of blood to the kidneys fresh and regular; and we will discuss the Herbs that help the Urinary system perform proficiently.
Our Urinary system consists of Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder and Urethra; and the blood/ nerve supply that supports them. Two kidneys are situated in what is known as the “retroperitoneal space” of the body. They are behind the abdomen at the juncture of the spine and ribcage on either side. Because of the liver, the right kidney is a bit lower than the left kidney. Atop both kidneys sit the Adrenal glands- like little hats. Connecting each kidney to the Urinary Bladder (different from the “gall” bladder behind the liver) is one of two tiny, muscular tubes called a Ureter. The Ureters are about 10-12 inches in length and have muscular walls that pull urine from the kidney down into the bladder. If you have ever had a kidney stone you “appreciate” the muscular peristaltic waves as these tiny tubes endeavor to pull the sharp stone along. The Bladder is constructed somewhat like the stomach, in that the inner layer is comprised of rugae (thick folds of tissue that expand like an accordion with urine volume- increasing the surface area available for storage.) One Urethra then connects the bottom of the Bladder to the outside. For obvious reasons, the length of the Urethra is longer in males (7-8”) than in females (1.5”). The prostate gland in males surrounds the top of the urethra as it descends from the bladder in males. Aging causes overgrowth of the prostate gland.
So, overall- the Urinary system is “Y” shaped- with each of two kidneys at the top of the “Y” – the Ureters coming down to the Urinary Bladder at the juncture of the “Y”- and the Urethra connecting the juncture of the “Y” to the outside.
Basically, the Kidneys make urine and the Bladder stores urine until it is eliminated.
We should mention here, that in Traditional Chinese Medicine, the kidneys are our most yin organs. Known as the “Minister of Power,” they store our energy and immunity influence. TCM recognizes that the kidneys store prenatal energy donated by our parents. Thus, they are also called the “Root of Life.” Seasonally, the kidneys are represented by winter, the most yin of seasons. They represent the water element and they present to the senses by our ears. Winter is the time for introspection; for rest and storing energy. It is the time to warm and support the kidneys. TCM includes the Adrenal glands and the testicles in males/ the ovaries in females as the “external kidneys.” As such, they are said to not only filter the blood of waste materials regulating body pH; but also present the main source of sexual vitality. Psycho – Emotional reflection of TCM shows that with healthy kidneys you display wisdom, self-understanding, and a gentle nature with rational thinking. The opposite of this (yin deficiency) is that of having a fearful nature, insecurity, and loneliness. Symptoms of Kidney Yin deficiency are those that show that internal fluids are inadequate and those that show heat and inflammation, like dry mouth, fever, ringing in the ears, constipation, and pain.
Your kidneys have a rich blood supply. They are situated in place by the ribs and the muscles of the back and protected by a layer of fat surrounding the fascial capsule. If you have ever seen kidneys at the grocery store, you will remember that they have a dent in one side halfway between the top and the bottom. This is where blood from the body enters via the renal artery and leaves the kidney via the renal vein. It is also where urine begins its decent through the ureter. (As much as 1/3 of all blood leaving the heart passes into the kidneys to be filtered before flowing to the rest of the body’s tissues.)
Within the kidney, the “Nephron” kidney cells- filter blood and produce urine- then send clean blood back through the Renal vein to the rest of the body. Each kidney contains around one million individual nephrons! These tiny capsules function by pressure gradients> the larger surrounding arteriole pressing blood through the filtrating core of the nephron, while a smaller arteriole receives filtered blood. Once again HYDRAULICS on the cellular level! From the arterial network, products of filtration drain through a series of micro tubules that reabsorb water and nutrients and direct them to collecting basins near the ureter- (Somewhat like the collecting tubes of a distillery.) Within this micro-network, the work of the kidneys- filtering blood- is affected by what the blood contains as it passes through. Can you see how a lifetime of forcing large sugar molecules through the nephrons could destroy them? Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure in the United States. Hypertension elevates your risk of kidney failure because it distorts the pressure gradient in the nephrons over time.
Your kidneys, with your liver, are your defense against toxic overload. When we’re young, we just do not consider how much we challenge these tender organs. After a while, it becomes hard to change eating, drinking, and activity habits. It’s important to note that 60-70% of kidney function can be lost before we even have symptoms that our kidneys may be failing.
Your Kidneys work with the liver, the lungs, the skin and the bowels to clean the blood and eliminate toxins. They maintain water balance and help maintain blood pH. What does this mean? The “H” in pH stands for hydrogen. Increased hydrogen in the blood means that the blood (and tissues) are more acidic. When your blood is acidic, you are prone to inflammation throughout your body in the form of arthritis, vasculitis, fibromyalgia, and cancer. Your kidneys work constantly to maintain a neutral pH. They “borrow” calcium from your bones to neutralize blood acid. Calcium in the urine often manifests as kidney stones and bone deficiency. Maintenance of water volume controls blood pressure (releasing 400 to 2,000 ml of urine/day.) One other function of the Kidneys is the release of the protein erythropoietin, which stimulates bone marrow production of red blood cells. You can see that Kidney function goes to our deepest core: our Yin.
If you have a family member with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or elevated cholesterol; chances are that you, too, are slowly being affected by these conditions. Families usually form similar habits of eating, drinking and activity; and genetics plays its part. Once again, look at yourself in the mirror. This is the easiest way to notice if you are in good health. Look at your eyes. Do they reflect the twinkle of life? Are the whites of your eyes white? Do you have enough tears? Look at your skin- it is a mirror of your well-being. Sure, we see changes as we age: spots, wrinkles, and sags… But look at the color: Pale? Flushed? Yellow? Your skin can tell you a lot about how your whole body is fairing. Stick out your tongue. Is it pale, bright red, dry, cracked? Do you see tiny dents along the edge from your teeth? Your tongue is a map of your body and you can learn a great deal from it. None of us is satisfied with the way our bodies look, but carrying extra weight ages not only our muscles but also our internal organs. Remember, our kidneys are the seat of immunity and energy. If any of your organs are in trouble; your kidneys are in trouble.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE URINARY SYSTEM
Blockage:
-Of the Nephrons caused by high blood pressures, large molecules (sugar) and dehydration.
-Of the Elimination system caused by mineral Stones, Swelling of the Prostate, Prolapse of organs due to flaccid muscular structure, and Cancer.
Inflammation:
-Of the Mucous Membranes lining the system. Names you may recall are Nephritis, Ureteritis, Cystitis, Prostatitis, and Urethritis.
Pain: In the back, sides, groin, or abdomen.
Bleeding: From Injury or Inflammation
HERBS THAT HELP THE URINARY SYSTEM
Blockage: Antilithics dissolve stones; Anti-inflammatories; Antispasmodics decrease spasms; Demulcents soothe.
Inflammation: Anti-inflammatories; Antispasmodics; Antimicrobials help to rid the system of toxins; Diuretics increase the flow of urine- flushing the system; Diaphoretics increase sweating.
Pain: Anti-inflammatories; Antispasmodics, Antimicrobials.
Bleeding: Astringents constrict vessels to staunch bleeding; Anti-inflammatories; Antimicrobials.
SPECIFIC HERBS [A practicing Herbalist can help you with choosing what is best for you!]
Agrimony- Astringent; Tones mucosa; Relieves Kidney pain.
Asparagus- Diuretic; Demulcent; Healing to the Kidneys.
Bearberry leaf/ Uva-Ursi- Mild Diuretic and Astringent. As such is useful with inflammation of mucous membranes- especially with Candida and E. coli. Useful also with interstitial Cystitis, which is inflammation of the underlying tissues as well as the mucous membranes of the bladder. Tones and strengthens the passages- relieving pain during passage of kidney stones. Cleanses the kidneys.
Buchu- Chronic rather than Acute conditions. Scalding Urine.
Celery Root / Seeds- Natural Diuretic. Eliminates toxins by increasing urine outputs. Anti-inflammatory. Antispasmodic. Stimulates the kidneys.
Cleavers- Diuretic. Anti-Inflammatory. Astringent. Moves Lymph.
Cornsilk- Diuretic. Demulcent. Anti-inflammatory.
Couchgrass- Antilithic; Demulcent.
Fennel- Antispasmodic; “Bedwetting.”
Goldenrod – Anti-inflammatory, to prevent and treat kidney stones. Used in teas to flush out the system. It is diuretic and astringent. Used to treat chronic kidney disease and cystitis. Saponins found in Goldenrod are effective against Candida and E. coli. “Exhausted Kidneys.”
Hops- Antispasmodic. Antimicrobial. Astringent. Sedative. Hypnotic. “Drink a six-pack” when you first notice symptoms of Kidney stone pain. The hops smooths out spasms, and calms; while the extra fluid helps flush out the stone. [Aforementioned comes with regularly issued precautions.]
Horsetail- Diuretic; Increases urine volume- flushing the system. Astringent. Anti-inflammatory.
Hydrangea- Dissolves Kidney Stones. Popular among Native Americans acts as a solvent, smooths edges of jagged kidney stones. Augments the body’s use of calcium discouraging formation of kidney stones. Tommie Bass remedy: “Hydrangea capsules hourly. Ten lemons in 1 gallon of water.”
Joe Pye Weed/ Gravel Root- Protects the kidney membranes against passage of crystals through them. Stones from Uric Acid, Calcium oxalate, Calcium phosphate, and Sugar crystals.
Lovage- Anti-inflammatory; Diuretic; Moves stones.
Marshmallow Root- Gentle diuretic. Demulcent; Soothes mucous membranes. Used in combination with other Herbs in formula.
Parsley- Anti- inflammatory; Eaten fresh in quantity or taken as tea to flush the system; acts as Diuretic. Demulcent; Soothing. Adrenal Tonic.
Pipsissewa- Renal antiseptic specific for swollen prostate and Chronic Renal infections.
Saw Palmetto- Interferes with the enzyme that causes Prostate enlargement.
Stinging Nettle Leaf and Root- Leaf as a Demulcent, soothes the mucous membranes. Root treats prostate problems. Boosts immunity of the urinary tract and helps fight infection. Rich in lignans and antioxidants that support the walls of both the kidneys and the bladder. Helps flush out bacteria and toxins by increasing urine volume. Nutritive Tonic. Eliminates proteinaceous waste. [Helpful with “Getting off dialysis.”]
Watermelon Flesh / Seeds- Flesh is Cooling; Demulcent. Seeds Diuretic. Tea of seeds Demulcent. Detoxifies. “Binds Stool-Loosens Kidneys.” [Kathleen Maier]
NURTURE YOUR KIDNEYS!
We have often discussed healthy ways to help us live well. I think that we take for granted the bodies we have. We eat to satisfy our cravings; burn the candle at both ends; and live less than active lifestyles. I say “we” because I am guilty too. The problem with moving one day to the next –“same old; same old”- is that we can have lost 70-90% of our kidney function before we know it. By that time, there is no turning back!
Think about the following things and try to initiate them in your lives:
* Don’t be afraid of your reflection in the mirror. Seek it out – it is a reflection of your internal status, too.
* Listen to your “Body Talk.” You have been living in this body your whole life. You know when something is wrong. You have to take responsibility for learning the most about why your body functions this way. Your physician/ caregiver cannot possibly know you better than you know yourself. You also have to take responsibility to change patterns that you realize are destructive to you.
* In our culture, “being old” lasts a long time before you die. How much of that time do you wish to be debilitated? Loss of Kidney function is debilitating. You can take steps now to insure that you are not old before your time. Having adequate Yin not only sustains but protects you.
* Change “Bad” Habits. You know what they are.
* Two things that can change your life right now:
Drink HALF your body weight in ounces of water per day.
Restrict consumption of animal protein in your diet. Just DO it!
It could be that “Urine for Trouble” or maybe you’re in for great health!
BIBLIOGRAPHY
MEDICAL HERBALISM The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine
[David Hoffmann]
THE EARTHWISE HERBAL A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants
THE EARTHWISE HERBAL A Complete Guide to New World Medicinal Plants
[Matthew Wood]