Parsley
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is more than just a garnish. It actually can do some good when it comes to your kidneys. Dr. James A Howenstine, MD, a specialist in internal medicine and author of A Physicians Guide To Natural Health Products That Work, swears by parsley tea for urinary tract health. He writes, "Parsley tea is a major advance in Western health care.” Parsley seems to work right alongside couch grass in keeping the walls of your urinary tract clean. As Dr. Howenstine explains, parsley seems to penetrate the bladder wall very effectively. It ensures your urinary tract is immaculate down to each and every cell. Parsley also works as a diuretic, increasing the amount of pee you get rid of at a time.

Uva-Ursi
A third cleansing herb, Uva-ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) has been used traditionally by Native Americans for centuries. The leaves are used to soothe, tone, and strengthen the urinary system. Not much research has been done on this relative of the cranberry, also known as "bear's grapes”. But its supply of the powerful cleanser arbutin and the high concentration of tannin in its leaves (20%) suggest it can help keep your bladder an unfriendly place for anything other than pee.

Stinging Nettle
In the 15th century, the famous astronomer (and doctor) Copernicus, had copious amounts of notes on using Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) to help with kidney health. Modern-day doctors seem to be more interested in nettles’ role in prostate health. Nonetheless, two clinical studies on nettles’ role in prostate health have confirmed that nettle seems to improve urine flow and ensure your bladder is thoroughly emptied. When it comes to keeping your kidneys strong, in particular, animal studies show stinging nettle may help protect the kidneys from injury. How does it help on this? It may be due to its reputed role in reducing uric acid levels. Furthermore, several clinical studies have confirmed that despite the stinging burn it brings when you touch it, nettles are a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Astragalus
The root Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine in supporting kidney and overall immune health. But support for its use doesn’t stop there. Several clinical studies verifies its role in immune health. And a preliminary clinical study plus over a dozen animal studies indicate it may help the kidneys specifically. These studies suggest it can even help with kidney health after stressors.

Marshmallow
Last but not least, marshmallow (Althaeae officinale) has a long tradition of use for urinary health. The classic herbal reference, Mrs. M. Grieve's A Modern Herbal, recommends it for providing relief to minor pain in the urinary tract and for "exerting a relaxing effect upon the passages". Traditional Arab healers have long used it to soothe irritation when applied as a poultice. The science supporting this use is still developing. But preliminary animal studies and case studies indicate it may also support immune health and reduce inflammation.

Suggested Use: Adults: Drink 1 cup, twice daily until you get desired results. Then, drink 1 cup per day for maintenance.

PREPARATION: Measure into a pot enough water for the number of large cups (about 8oz/250ml) you want to make and add 2 heaping teaspoons for each cup. Add 25% more water to compensate for evaporation. Make enough for a few days if you like. When you scoop out the tea, scoop deep down into the bag to make sure the tea is kept well mixed. Example: If you want to prepare 4 cups of tea, measure 5 cups of water and 8 heaping teaspoons of tea. Heat on a stove until boiling, then turn stove off or set to low and allow to simmer for 10 minutes. Stir and allow the tea to cool, then strain into a pitcher. For best results let it soak for a few hours or overnight before straining. Store the pitcher in a refrigerator and drink the tea cold or re-heated. You can put some in a thermos to take along with you to work. The tea has a pleasing aroma. Tea tastes better without sugar or sweeteners. If you must have a sweeter taste, use a little bit of honey or stevia. Do not prepare the tea by pouring hot water over it, since this will not give you the full benefit.</p.

- Source: Bell Lifestyle Products