Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Ayurvedic Treatment: An Update

This chapter evaluate Role of Punarnava as a Single Drug Treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as one of the most prominent causes of death. Chronic kidney disease is more prevalent in older individuals, women, racial minorities, and in people experiencing diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Chronic kidney disease represents an especially large burden in low- and middle-income countries, which are least equipped to deal with its consequences.Boerhaavia diffusa Linn., a trailing herb that grows all across India and is harvested after the rainy season, was used in Punarnava. The herb is diffusely branched, with a strong root stock and several long, slender, prostrate or ascending branches. Punarnava can renew dying cells and aid in the revival of the body's failing organs. The name "pun-nava" means "new again." The organ with the most biological roles is the kidney. They maintain the homeostatic balance of body fluids by removing waste out of body. Chronic Kidney disease (CKD) or Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) refers to an irreversible deterioration in renal function, which develops over a period of years. Due to the high costs and complexity of the traditional therapeutic strategy, which involves dialysis and renal transplantation, very few patients can afford to receive the appropriate care for kidney problems. Therefore, exploration of a safe and alternative therapy is needed, which proves to be helpful in reducing the requirement of dialysis and in postponing the renal transplantation. The use of herbal drugs for the prevention and treatment of various diseases is constantly developing throughout the world. This treatment approach is a safe and effective alternative in case of CRF. In a difficult condition where conventional treatments are beyond the financial capacities of a common man of the country, this therapy can be hopeful and promising.