Supporting The Kidneys safely while taking Lithium
As I witness the increasing rate of people taking psychiatric drugs and the strain on their kidneys, I got inspired to post this list of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs that would nourish the kidneys, balance fluids, and reduce toxicity from lithium, other psychiatric or pharmaceutical drugs in general. Hope it can be of benefit.
1. Kidney Supporting Herbs
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) It’s a cooling adaptogen that helps balance hydration and protect kidney tissues.
Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) it has diuretic and rejuvenating properties, it supports kidney detoxification.
Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) Strengthens kidney function and helps maintain electrolyte balance.
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) Supports detoxification and reduces inflammation.
Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang, Rehmannia glutinosa) A key TCM herb that nourishes kidney yin and supports adrenal function.
Astragalus (Huang Qi) Helps protect kidney cells and supports immune function.
2. Kidney-Nourishing Foods
Black sesame seeds: Strengthen the kidneys and support yin energy.
Seaweed (such as nori, wakame, and dulse) Provides essential minerals that support kidney function.
Mung beans: Cooling and detoxifying, they help clear heat and excess waste from the kidneys.
Celery & cucumber; Natural diuretics that help flush toxins while maintaining hydration.
Beets & beet greens: Support detoxification and circulation to the kidneys.
Berries (blueberries, blackberries, cranberries): Rich in antioxidants that protect kidney tissues.
Pumpkin seeds: Provide zinc and magnesium, essential for kidney health.
3. Hydration & Electrolyte Balance
Drink plenty of warm or room-temperature water to support lithium excretion.
Coconut water can help maintain electrolyte balance.
Herbal teas such as nettle, dandelion leaf, or barley tea support kidney detox.
4. Lifestyle & Energy Practices
Abhyanga (self-massage with warm sesame oil) to support kidney-adrenal health.
Kidney packs with castor oil to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
Qigong or gentle yoga, especially postures that strengthen the lower back and kidneys (e.g., child’s pose, kidney breathing).
Contact me if you would like specific herbal formulations or recipes tailored to your constitution
Azita Moallef, L. Ac.
310-721-7687