Herbal medicine in the management of renal disease: A comprehensive review of its potential for acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, and hypertension

Abstract

Each year, a considerable number of individuals are diagnosed with potentially life-threatening renal failure, encompassing acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). New natural herbal compounds, whether used in isolation or combined with medical treatments and an appropriate regime, have been suggested for the management of renal failure. The etiology of AKI remains uncertain; nevertheless, several factors have been proposed as potential causative agents that can lead to renal failure, including renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), nephrotoxicity, sepsis, administration of radiocontrast agents, and exposure to heavy metal ions. Several commonly utilized herbs with anti-diabetic and antihypertensive properties, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasorelaxant effects, have been recognized as efficacious therapeutic agents in the management of CKD. The management of renal failure typically involves treating the underlying diseases, such as IRI, sepsis, and diabetes. However, if addressing the root cause is not possible, the focus shifts to managing complications like hypertension and proteinuria.