Ayurvedic Management of Chronic Kidney Disease: Insights from a Case Study

Full article link - https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4390/7703

Reference: A.P. Shrilata, Ayurvedic Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) – A Single Case Study, Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences, 2025;10(6):418–422. DOI: 10.21760/jaims.10.6.59.

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition in which kidney function gradually declines. The kidneys are responsible for removing waste products, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, regulating blood pressure and supporting healthy red blood cell production.

As kidney function decreases, symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, changes in urination and sleep disturbances may occur. Early identification and appropriate medical care are therefore important.

What Does Ayurveda Offer?

A case study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences explored the Ayurvedic management of a 73-year-old male diagnosed with Stage 3b CKD. The patient experienced frequent and frothy urination, fatigue, swelling, disturbed sleep and had a history of uncontrolled hypertension. Laboratory investigations showed elevated serum creatinine and reduced eGFR.

The management approach included selected Ayurvedic formulations such as Guluchyadi Kashaya, Punarnavadi Mandoora and Neeri KFT syrup, along with supportive preparations. Treatment was also accompanied by a CKD-specific dietary and lifestyle regimen.

Encouraging Clinical Observations

Over a five-month period, the case report documented improvement in important clinical parameters, including serum creatinine and eGFR, along with improvement in the patient's overall well-being.

This case highlights the potential role of an integrated Ayurvedic approach, where individualized medicines are combined with appropriate diet and lifestyle measures.

The Importance of Individualized Care

CKD requires careful monitoring because kidney function can change over time. Ayurvedic management should therefore be individualized according to the person's condition, laboratory findings, medications and overall health status.

This case report provides an encouraging clinical observation, but it is a single case study and cannot by itself establish that Ayurveda can reverse or cure CKD. Larger, well-designed clinical studies are needed to further evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Ayurvedic interventions in CKD.

Conclusion

Ayurveda emphasizes individualized treatment, dietary discipline and lifestyle management. The reported CKD case demonstrates how these principles, when applied under professional supervision and alongside appropriate monitoring, may contribute to supportive care and improved clinical outcomes.