Herbs   Kidney and Liver

                                                                   milk thistle
CAUTION ask your doctor before beginning any herb to be sure it might benefit you.

Açai
Brazilian palm

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
Euterpe oleracea mart
BENEFICIAL Açai palm is a genus of 25-30 species of palms. It is a very tall slender plant, growing upwards of 15 to 25 m. Acai grows in the Amazon Rainforest and is very perishable. The berries deteriorate rapidly after harvest, so outside its growing region it is generally only available as juice or frozen fruit pulp. Acai berries have essential minerals like potassium, iron, phosphorus and calcium. Açai berry is also an excellent source of dietary fiber, extremely rich in organic vegetable protein that lowers the bad cholesterol and raises the good cholesterol. Açai berries have Omega 6 and Omega 9 fatty acids. Locally grown hearts of palm has also been shown to be beneficial. The Açai berry is available as dried pulp. Because of its high phenolic content, the phytochemical-enriched Açai oil from Açai fruit offers a promising alternative to traditional tropical oils for food, supplements, and cosmetics.
Acrylamide

acrylamide

AVOID Acrylamide is a known carcinogen in laboratory animals. It impairs fertility in male animals, and causes nerve damage to humans exposed in the workplace (FSA, 2002). It is best avoided with PKD and PLD. French fries, potato chips, and coffee, are some foods high in acrylamide. Acrylamide can be formed by high heat cooking (such as baking) of starches in combination with sugars. With coffee it is the long roasting of the beans. A study by the USFDA proposed a mechanism that involves asparagine, which, when heated in the presence of glucose, forms acrylamide. Acrylamide is a known cancer producing agent. This has been studied in regards to renal cell carcinoma. With PKD there is also an increased incidence of renal cell carcinoma. The studies did not find a relationship between renal cell carcinoma and acrylamide, but it was studied by (3) different researchers three different times around the world. To be safe, diminish any acrylamide exposure.

                                                

Alfalfa
alfalfa

AVOID Alfalfa sprouts are one sprout to avoid. It produces a process in the sprouting that can create difficulties for kidneys. Alfalfa sprouts contain l-canavanine, an unusual amino acid that has been known to result in some toxicity and joint stiffness in humans. Alfalfa sprouts are best avoided. For an added zip to salads, try broccoli sprouts, bean sprouts, radish sprouts, or sunflower seed sprouts. To learn more about sprouting your own, try Sproutman.     
top
  

Angelica
(Angelica sinensis)

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

 Dong Quai

AVOID  Angelica or Dong Quai is often called female ginseng. Six different coumadin compounds have been identified in Angelica. This is a Chinese herb and as such normally the root is used. Coumadin found in Angelica, is a potent blood thinner.

A Kaiser study done in Northern California USA showed there to be no effect in preventing hot flashes. The essential oil in dong quai contains Ligustilide. This is useful as an anti-spasmodic.


ALERT   Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com


top

 

 

Artichoke
(Cynara scolymus)

artichoke polycystic liver disease

artichoke polycystic liver disease PLD

artichoke

artichoke thistle polycystic liver disease pld pkd polycystic kidney disease

BENEFICIAL The ancients considered artichokes to have many benefits. Artichokes, including leaves, were thought to be an aphrodisiac, a diuretic, a breath freshener and even a deodorant. Decoctions of artichoke leaves have been used as blood cleansers, cholerics, to improve bile production and secretion and to detoxify the liver and the skin.
The globe artichoke is a member of the Composite family, closely related to the thistle. The part we eat is from the immature flower bud. Artichokes are nutrient dense, so, for the 25 calories in a medium artichoke, you're getting 16 essential nutrients! Artichokes provide the important minerals magnesium, chromium, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, iron and calcium. For example, that 25 calorie artichoke provides 6% of the Recommended Daily Value of phosphorus, 10% of magnesium, 8% of manganese, 10% of chromium, 5% of potassium, 4% of iron and 2% of calcium and iron. Artichoke leaf extracts have demonstrated great benefits on the gallbladder with the ability to stimulate the secretion of bile in the liver, to detoxify the liver which in turn helps to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. In addition other compounds in the leaves have been shown to possess a hypoglycemic effect.In the 1970s, European scientists first documented cynarin's ability to lower cholesterol in humans. Over the years, other researchers have continued to document artichoke's or cynarin's effect in this area. One of the more recent studies, published in 2000, was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study that used an artichoke leaf extract that was standardized to its cynarin content. For six weeks, 143 patients with high cholesterol were given the extract; at the end of the test, results showed a decrease of 10%-15% in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), and ratio of LDL to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Scientists now report that the cholesterol-lowering effect of artichoke can be attributed to chemicals other than just cynarin, including several newly discovered ones.

top
The liver detoxifying and protective properties of artichoke first came to the attention of researchers in 1966 (in a study that supported its effect on liver regeneration in rats). A 1987 study that focused on the effects of rat liver cells subjected to harmful chemical agents found both cynarin to have significant protective effects. Current research is showing benefits to the liver from cynarin, a compound found in the artichoke's leaves. Silymarin is another compound found in artichokes that has powerful antioxidant properties and may help the liver regenerate healthy tissue. The appearance of the artichoke flower is similar to milk thistle flower. Both herbs contain high amounts of silymarin, a potent liver healing herb. It may potentiate cholesterol lowering drugs. NOTE  both artichoke and milk thistle have a thistle flower and both herbs are useful for cystic livers. A combination capsule of milk thistle, artichoke, and turmeric some have found helpful for liver cysts.

                                                                     


Basil
(Ocimum basilicum)
artichoke ADPLD liver herbs  

BENEFICIAL Recently, there has been much research into the health benefits conferred by the essential oils found in basil. Scientific studies have established that compounds in basil oil have potent antioxidant hence anti-aging, anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-microbial properties. In addition, basil has been shown to decrease the occurrence of platelet aggregation and experimental thrombus in mice. It is traditionally used for supplementary treatment of stress, asthma and diabetes in India.
ALERT   Basil, like other aromatic plants such as fennel and tarragon, contains estragole, a known carcinogen and teratogen in rats and mice. While human effects are currently unstudied, the rodent experiments indicate that it would take 100–1000 times the normal anticipated exposure to become a cancer risk.

Bilberry
Huckleberry

(vaccinium Myrtillus)
Myrtle
huckleberry

BENEFICIAL The major American use for bilberry fruit is to treat ocular disorders; it is used to aid night vision, prevent the development and progression of cataracts, treat diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, and prevent glaucoma. European herbalists also rely on bilberry to treat mild diarrhea and mild oral irritation. Its constituents include tannins, anthocyanosides and flavonoids.
Common names: bilberry, blaeberry, heidelberry, huckleberry, hurtleberry, whortleberry top
Bilberry enjoys a long medical history. Hildegard of Bingen, the famous Fifteenth Century nun, musician and herbalist, recommended bilberry to induce menses. It has been used historically as a treatment for fevers, coughs, renal stones and urinary tract infections intestinal and liver disorders, hemorrhoids, and infections of the skin and mucus membranes. It was also used to treat a variety of eye disorders including myopia, eyestrain, impaired night vision and cataracts. It is akin to the blueberry, one of the fruits highest in anti-oxidant properties.

Black Cohosh

black cohosh

AVOID   Black Cohosh is another alternative herbal treatment called remifemin. Effexor might be a better alternative. 2006 Study SEATTLE -- Black cohosh alone or with other botanical therapies was no better than placebo at relieving hot flashes or other vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, found the Herbal Alternatives for Menopause (HALT) trial. It has been used for hot flashes in breast cancer patients with estrogen binding tumors. The cancers did not grow and this relieved a small percentage of hot flashes. Black cohosh contains salicylic (a component of aspirin) and it appears to act as a phytoestrogen. (Others have noticed with soy a potent phytoestrogen, an increase in growth of liver cysts). Black Cohosh suppress luteinizing hormone surges associated with hot flashes in menopausal woman. It is specific for headaches in the late luteal phase associated with low estrogen levels. It has been shown in the animal model that it prevents 7% decline in breast cancer. top
Avoid black cohosh unknown if it might cause kidney and liver cyst enlargement. Some benefit from hot flashes has been seen from the non-hormonal drug Effexor.

Cacao
chocolate

chocolate harmful polycystic kidney disease pkd

                                                                                 

AVOID   I have considered planting and growing my own cacao. In the tropics, cacao grows on a tree and yields a beautiful golden elongated fruit, similar to a gourd. A white sticky sweet gelatin is attached to the seeds or pods. This can be scraped off and eaten, yielding a sweet sour taste. The pods, the beans, or the seeds, as they are sometimes called; are allowed to dry in the sun. Once fully dry, they are roasted in an oven and can be pounded, added to  coconut milk  or almond milk to make rich chocolate drink.
I went through this process to see if perhaps whole natural unprocessed chocolate, chocolate nibs, directly dried and ground from the plant itself, might not raise my own blood pressure. However, It did. Raw chocolate kept my blood pressure elevated for (3) three full days. Carob chocolates, might be an alternative to chocolate.


top

Chamomile
(Matricaria recutita)
manzanilla

  pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

chamomile

BENEFICIAL Chamomile has been known to decrease inflammation surrounding the kidney. Use with caution if allergic to ragweed and if taking blood thinners. The herbal plant used in this study was German chamomile (Matricaria recutita), also known as manzanilla, whose flowers and leaves are brewed as a fragrant, flavorful tea. The study involved fourteen volunteers (seven women and seven men) who each drank five cups of the herbal tea daily for two consecutive weeks. Daily urine samples were taken and tested throughout the study, both before and after drinking chamomile tea.
The researchers found that drinking the tea was associated with a significant increase in urinary levels of hippurate, a breakdown product of certain plant-based compounds known as phenolics, some of which have been associated with increased antibacterial activity. This could help explain why the tea appears to boost the immune system and fight infections associated with colds, according to the researchers.top
Drinking the tea also was associated with an increase in urinary levels of glycine, an amino acid that has been shown to relieve muscle spasms. This may explain why the tea appears to be helpful in relieving menstrual cramps in women, probably by relaxing the uterus, say the researchers. Glycine also is known to act as a nerve relaxant, which may also explain why the tea seems to act as a mild sedative, the scientists note. Glycine supplements are sold in stores for that purpose, they add. Chamomile is great for stress, irritability, flagging appetite, relieving nausea and upset stomach. Because of its high calcium, it helps premenstrual tension and allows for a good night's sleep. A favorite evening beverage is a cup of chamomile tea with tupelo honey. My chamomile tea favorite at the moment is made by Mighty Leaf - Chamomile Citrus. It comes packaged in these cute little silk bags that form pyramids. I place two used tea bags in the refrigerator and place them over my morning eyes to diminish any puffiness.
Clinical studies have shown that chamomile has mild sedative effects when administered as a tea. Animal studies have shown that Chamomile volatile oil when administered orally to rabbits with impaired kidney function, normalized the uremic condition. The flavonoid apigenin had shown antihistaminic effects in animal studies.
Immune Stimulant: Chamomile stimulates the immune system's infection fighting white blood cells (macrophages and B-lymphocytes). It is a very popular herbal product in Germany for wound care. The essential oil was found to reduce the time required to heal burns. The herb kills the yeast fungi that causes vaginal infections, as well as certain bacteria. Chamomile impairs the replication of polio virus. Safety: Chamomile is part of the Asteraceae plant family, which includes ragweed and chrysanthemum, so people with allergies may react when they use chamomile either internally or topically. Call your doctor if you experience vomiting, skin irritation, allergic reactions (chest tightness, wheezing, hives, rash, itching) after chamomile use. Chamomile should not be taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Chamomile contains coumarin, a naturally-occurring compound with anticoagulant or blood-thinning effects. It should not be combined with warfarin or other medications or supplements that have the same effect or be used by people with bleeding disorders.


ALERT
 Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

Chaparral
(Larrea tridentata)

chaparral

AVOID Chaparral tea is a traditional Native American treatment for cramping pains, joint pains, and allergic problems. Modern research has revealed that Chaparral contains nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) has potent anti-inflammatory activity. Chaparral - Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is likely the ingredient which is toxic to cystic kidneys.
J Urol. 1994 Dec: 152(6pt 1):2089-91 . . .acquired renal cystic disease associated with consumption of chaparral tea: a case report.
Chaparral also contains antioxidant flavonoids and has demonstrated anti-amoeba activity in test tubes.The desert chaparral bush has the Latin name Larrea tridentata or Larrea diver-icata and is also know as the greasewood or creosote bush.


Chrysanthemum chrysanthemum polycystic kidney disease blood pressure PKD pld

chysanthemum



AVOID  topIf allergic to ragweed or chamomile, there has been a cross over sensitivity with chrysanthemum tea. It would be unwise to eat the leaves, especially if they are dried, as this is the precursor for several anticoagulants. It contains coumarin and can prevent the blood from clotting. Chrysanthemum is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat hypertension, angina, and fevers. No clinical studies evaluating the safety in humans have been performed. Animal data suggest possible anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activity Hypersensitivity and photosensitivity reactions are documented. Individuals allergic to ragweed should avoid this herb. Some studies indicate that chrysanthemum may have cytotoxic and antibacterial activities. Extracts of chrysanthemum show no effect on insulin levels. Common names: Chrysanthemum morifolium, Chrysanthemum sinense, Chrysanthemum japonense, Ox-eye Daisy Chrysanthemum Leucanthemum.
Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

Chilies

 chilli

chillis

chillis

AVOID  topReduces platelet clumping, opens up blood vessels, stimulates blood circulation and warms the body. Eating chilies increases thermogenesis, the body's caloric burn rate. If you eat chilies with your meal, your body will burn calories at an increased rate of about 25 percent. Capsaicin prevents carcinogens from binding to DNA where they trigger the second hit phenomena which occurs with PKD. This second hit starts cells mutating which triggers cysts to form.
It provides relief of pain especially painful cluster headaches. It opens clogged sinuses. It also stimulates gastric secretions. Defends your body against food-borne bacteria. Vibrio vulnificus bacteria sometimes found in raw shellfish is inhibited by capsaicin. An externally applied cream first produced in Germany (I had the pleasure of meeting the dermatologist who thought to try this) has been used to help with the pain of shingles. By ingesting hot chilies or rubbing the skin with a cream, this causes an outpouring of calcium which numbs the pain receptors in a localized area. At first it really burns. Christopher Columbus noticed hot peppers (chiles) almost immediately after he struck land on this side of the Atlantic. He soon sent a cargo back to Spain, suggesting that they might be a good substitute for black pepper, one of the precious spices that had caused merchant explorers to take to the sea in the first place.top
Capsicum cream has been used to treat painful post herpetic neuralgia of herpes zoster. I met the dermatologist in Europe who had first tried this as a treatment. He explained that it is much like eating a hot dish, the more frequently you eat a hot spicy dish, eventually you need more and more chili to add some fire to the meal. Eventually the nerve endings become exhausted and the cream allows some relief from the painful episodes.

ALERT There maybe something in chilies that is not of benefit to the kidneys. It is a member of the nightshade family it contains high amounts of solanine which interferes with calcium absorption. From time to time, I indulge in a hot chili or two to spice up guacamole. I sometimes experience kidney and liver ache following this. If you have liver cysts, it is a vegetable high in estrogens, as are all the nightshade family of vegetables.
ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

Cinnamon
cinnamon PKD herb polycystic kidney disease polycystic liver disease PLD

cinnamon pkd and pld

BENEFICIAL  Cinnamon has many health benefits: lowers blood sugar; slightly lowers cholesterol, it is a source of manganese, dietary fiber, iron and calcium; smelling the scent can improve memory; has anti inflammatory qualities; anti bacterial anti yeast. Its main usefulness is seen in regulating blood sugar. An active ingredient in cinnamon, proanthocyanidin, worms its way inside cells, where it activates the insulin receptor. Once this receptor is activated, whether by insulin or cinnamon, chemical reactions occur allowing the cell to use energy from sugar. Cinnamaldehyde (also called cinnamic aldehyde) has been well-researched for its effects on blood platelets. Platelets are constituents of blood that are meant to clump together under emergency circumstances (like physical injury) as a way to stop bleeding, but under normal circumstances, they can make blood flow inadequate if they clump together too much. The cinnaldehyde in cinnamon helps prevent unwanted clumping of blood platelets. The main source of coumarin in the diet is cinnamon.
ALERT   May increase GERD by the lowering the pressure in the abdominal sphincter.
ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

Chocolate
chocolate

chocolate harmful polycystic kidney disease pkd

                                                               

AVOID   I have considered planting and growing my own chocolate. On the islands, cacao grows on a tree and yields a beautiful golden elongated fruit, similar to a gourd. A white sticky sweet gelatin is attached to the seeds or pods. This can be scraped off and eaten, yielding a sweet sour taste. The pods, the beans, or the seeds, as they are sometimes called; are allowed to dry in the sun. Once fully dry, they are roasted in an oven and can be pounded, added to  coconut milk  or almond milk to make rich chocolate drink.
I went through this process to see if perhaps whole natural unprocessed chocolate, chocolate nibs, directly dried and ground from the plant itself, might not raise my own blood pressure. However, It did. Raw chocolate kept my blood pressure elevated for (3) three full days. Carob chocolates, might be an alternative to chocolate.


top

Clover
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

clover honey avoid with polycystic liver disease an estrogen

AVOID  Clover honey, one of the most common and inexpensive honeys available. Clover is an estrogen disrupter and can greatly increase liver cyst growth.
In the 1940's, the sheep farmers of Perth in western Australia began to experience an epidemic of still births despite three seasons of exceptionally good weather. The handsome merino sheep looked healthy. However, the ewe's failed to go into labor; the lambs died in still birth and often the mothers as well. In a matter of 5 years, the ewes failed to conceive at all even after repeated breeding with fertile rams. Federal and agricultural specialists found the problem. It was clover.
Fifteen years earlier, ranchers had imported a clover variety from the Mediterranean region in Europe. The first scientific paper on this phenomenon appeared in the Australian Veterinary Journal in 1946 and proclaimed this as "clover disease". Three years later (3) chemicals were identified as suspects. Formononetin only one of the chemicals was determined to be the culprit. Formononetin strongly mimics estrogen.
From the first article below, GEN is the same isoflavone in both soy and clover.

"Hence, it is an open question whether GEN has exclusively beneficial effects, as claimed by industrial companies, or whether they are endocrine disrupters that endanger the mammary gland or the uterus. Furthermore, little is known about the biological effects of GEN after long-term oral administration, which is the common method of treatment in postmenopausal women."

top

Coffee
(Coffea arabica)
caffeine PKD
Botanical:
Coffea arabica (LINN.)
Family: N.O. Rubiaceae
caffeine avoid with cysts

                                                             

AVOID avoid harmful for all cysts. Avoid coffee if you have PKD, and especially if you have PLD or liver cysts. This stimulates cAmp which in turn stimulates cyst growth.
The coffee shrub was introduced into Arabia early in the fifteenth century from Abyssinia, and for two centuries Arabia supplied the world's coffee; at the end of the seventeenth century the Dutch introduced the plant into Batavia, and from there a plant was presented to Louis XIV in 1714. All the coffee now imported from Brazil has been imported from that single plant. The European use of coffee dates from the sixteenth century when it was introduced into Constantinople, and a century later in 1652 the first coffee shop was opened in London. In 1858 the quantity imported into the United Kingdom was over sixty million pounds. In Turkey the consumption is enormous, and so necessary is it considered that the refusal to supply a reasonable amount to a Turk's wife is considered a legal cause for divorce.     
Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

                                             


Cola Nut
(Kola Nut)
Cola acuminata
Cola nitada

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

                                                                 

AVOID Some cultures chew Kola Nuts to retard fatigue and hunger. Kola nuts have a bitter initial taste, then a slightly sweet taste follows. Kola Nuts sweeten any food or drink taken immediately afterward. Kola nuts contain caffeine and theobromine, and are famous for their use in 'Cola' soft drinks. Kola nuts contain large significant amounts of caffeine. Caffeine is harmful to cyst growth by triggering cAMP, which can increase the number of cysts and the size of cystic organs.

 

top

Comfrey
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID  Symphytum officinale  (common comfrey) a member of the Borage family  (Boraginaceae). This herb is known to hinder the blood supply to the liver. AVOID with liver cysts. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which have hepatotoxic and carcinogenic effects (may be toxic to the liver and cause cancer when taken internally. The topical application of comfrey-containing preparations to broken skin should be avoided. Comfrey should not be taken during pregnancy or lactation.This is to be used externally only. If ingested it can be harmful to the liver.

top

Cranberry
Vaccinium
macrocarpon

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
cranberry

 BENEFICIAL   Avoid the whole fruit. The juice from cranberries, loganberries,lingonberries, huckleberries, blueberries are beneficial. Two (2) ounces of pure cranberry juice diluted with one ounce of mineral water is a very effective kidney herb. Avoid cranberry cocktail which contains sugar. If raw fresh cranberries are not available, frozen is a good substitute to juice. Northland brand cranberry juice 100% juice contains 17% cranberry juice. If you enjoy eating animal proteins, drink cranberry juice to convert the ammonia buffer to ammonium. This will also lessen possible resultant urinary tract infections. A few other plants claim the name "cranberry", including Vaccinium vitis-idaea, known to American botanists as Lingonberry, or mountain cranberry, but to the Swedes, it is cranberry. Cramp-bark, as it is most commonly known in the American market, Viburnum opulus, is sometimes listed as "highbush cranberry", but it is a "cranberry" in name only. top

Dandelion Greens
Taraxacum officinale

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

 BENEFICIAL   The leaves are eaten in Virginia lightly sauteed. They are known as mountain greens or forest greens. The brightly colored flowers are bitter when steeped into a tea, but said to be the best antidote for anger, especially if there is an autoimmune mechanism with a disease.


ALERT  If you are at the stage where you must restrict potassium, dandelion greens are high in potassium. They are also known as a slight diuretic.


ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.top

 

Dong Quai
(Angelica sinensis)

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

Chinese Herb

AVOID   Dong Quai or Angelica is often called female ginseng. Six different coumadin compounds have been identified in Dong Quai. This is a Chinese herb and as such normally the root is used. Coumadin found in Dong Quai, is a potent blood thinner.

A Kaiser study done in Northern California USA showed there to be no effect in preventing hot flashes. The essential oil in dong quai contains Ligustilide. This is useful as an anti-spasmodic.pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com


top

 

Echinacea
echinacea

CAUTION
I noticed no helpful effects in preventing colds or flu when taking echinacea. It neither warded off colds or flu nor did it create any ill feeling. It is said to heighten the immune response, caution if you have had a transplant. However the herb elderberry does seem to help lessen the impact of a cold. Careful with echinacea and withdraw from using it, two weeks prior to surgery. Some surgeons have noticed complications when taking this herb near the time of surgery. It may prolong bleeding times.

ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

top

Elderberry
Sambucus


elderberry


elderberry

elderberry

BENEFICIAL This is wonderful herb for the cold and flu season. First sign of a sniffle I try elderberry syrup called Sambu©. This is alkaline producing. It maybe wise to stop this two weeks before any surgery as it is high in vitamin C and high doses of vitamin C can cause bleeding tendencies. Elderberry was researched by an Israeli herbalist and found to be the one herb that actually exerts an anti-viral influence. In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study, Elderberry was shown to be effective for treating Influenza B. People using the Elderberry extract recovered much faster than those only on a placebo. This is partially due to the fact that Elderberry inhibits neuraminidase, the enzyme used by the virus to spread infection to host cells.
A small study published five years ago showed that 93% of flu patients given extract were completely symptom-free within two days; those taking a placebo recovered in about six days. This current study shows that, indeed, it works for type A flu, reports lead researcher Erling Thom, with the University of Oslo in Norway.
Thom's findings were presented at the 15th Annual Conference on Antiviral Research.
The study involved 60 patients who had been suffering with flu symptoms for 48 hours or less; 90% were infected with the A strain of the virus, 10% were infected with type B. Half the group took 15 milliliters of extract or and the other group took a placebo four times a day for five days. Patients in the extract group had "pronounced improvements" in flu symptoms after three days: Nearly 90% of patients had complete cure within two to three days. Also, the extract group had no drowsiness, the downside of many flu treatments. The placebo group didn't recover until at least day six; they also took more painkillers and nasal sprays. It's likely that antioxidants called flavonoids—which are contained in the extract—stimulate the immune system, writes Thom. Also, other compounds in elderberry, called anthocyanins, have an anti-inflammatory effect; this could explain the effect on aches, pains, and fever.
Elderberry extract could be an "efficient and safe treatment" for flu symptoms in otherwise healthy people and for those with compromised immune systems, such as the elderly, Thom adds.
Russell Greenfield, MD, a leading practitioner of integrative medicine and medical director of Carolinas Integrative Health, advocates treating flu with black elderberry, he says in a news release. "It can be given to children and adults, and with no known side effects or negative interactions," he says.
"But don't expect grandma's elderberry jam" to ease flu symptoms like body aches, cough, and fever, he warns. "Extract is the only black elderberry preparation shown effective in clinical studies."

Ephedra
(Ma Huang)
ephdra
 Ephedra sinica
Chinese Herb
ephedra

AVOID raises blood pressure. Ephedra contains amphetamine-like substances. They have a powerful stimulant effect on the central nervous system and heart also. They act nearly the same as adrenaline by raising blood pressure, dilating bronchial muscles which might lead to irregular hearbeats as well as lack of sleep or insomnia, depression and a rapid heart rate. If ephedra is combined with caffeine or other herbal stimulants, this can become life threatening.

 

top

Forskolin
forskolin adpkd
AVOID PKD Foundation co-founder Dr. Jared Grantham have identified a bizarre substance within the cysts of massively enlarged PKD kidneys. Dr. Grantham, a University Distinguished Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center, that the kidneys accumulated a highly potent fatty-like substance with the capacity to stimulate growth, but it’s taken more than 12 years to discover what that fatty-like chemical is – Coleus forskolii.

Galangal

galangal thai ginger pld pkd polycystic kidney disease herbs polycystic liver disease herbs blood pressure

Thai ginger rhizome

BENEFICIAL Galangal is a rhizome with culinary and medicinal uses, best known in the west today for its appearance in Southeast Asia cuisine but also common in recipes from medieval Europe. It is known as Thai ginger. This rhizome does not seem to raise blood pressure whereas ginger has been noted to raise blood pressure by a few individuals. Galangal oil is also used regularly in various forms of oils for anointing. top

galangal flower pkd herbs pld herbs polycystic liver kidney disease

Garlic

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

BENEFICIAL Garlic is known to lower blood pressure. Garlic while wonderful to assist in lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, it maybe best to stop this two weeks before surgery due to its blood thinning qualities. If you are prone to gastritis or stomach ulcers raw garlic maybe too harsh for you. Place an entire head of garlic in the oven. Rub extra virgin olive oil over it; slice the top but do not skin it. Allow the garlic to slow roast in the oven, when prepared this way, garlic bakes into a wonderful sweet nutty flavored spread. Fresh roasted garlic on spelt non-yeasted toast makes a wonderful topping.

ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

Ginger

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID  Ginger raises blood pressure and can increase stomach acids. Though ginger is recommended for motion sickness, a few susceptible individuals have noticed it increases stomach acids and raises blood pressure. Ginger keeps the blood thin and circulating; important for some of us with huge organs pressing against vessels. This might be helpful is blood pressure is low to help prevent clots from forming within vessels troubled with a sluggish blood flow. Ginger is to be stopped two weeks before any expected surgery because it does thin the blood. Raw ginger maybe too harsh if you are prone to stomach ulcers. Sauté´ ginger or braise it in soups or together with a few vegetables. It lends itself nicely to this. Galangal, or Thai ginger may not raise blood pressure.
ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.
top

 

Gingko Biloba

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID Ginkgo biloba is contraindicated in patients who are known to have risk factors for intracranial hemorrhage. PKD'rs have a higher incidence of developing aneurysms. Ginkgo has been reported to cause intracranial hemorrhage. Ginkgo will increase bleeding time so be wary since the anticoagulant heparin is given during dialysis. Ginkgo is a PAF antagonist which by its action decreases blood flow to the kidneys. Decreased kidney blood flow was the first symptom that PKD cystic kidneys were diminishing in their functioning, according to the CRISP study on PKD. A decreased blood flow to the kidneys is what causes renin to be released in Polycystic Kidneys. Renin causes the blood pressure to rise. According to 2009 report, Ginkgo does not increase cognitive decline in older individuals.top

Ginseng
Ginseng PLD PKD

AVOID  Ginseng can trigger severe migraine headaches, can effect bleeding times, can effect blood pressure, can effect blood sugar levels. For more on ginseng click on the articles from the pull down menu below.

Grapefruit

grapefruit alkaline diet PKD diet PKDiet

BENEFICIAL  Freshly squeezed helps diminish swelling of legs during travel. One grapefruit a day lowers LDL cholesterol. More detailed information and articles on grapefruit.
ALERT  Grapefruit interferes with immunosuppressive drugs and blood pressure medications

ALERT Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

top

Grape Seed Extract

grapeseed extract alkaline diet PKDiet PKD diet

pycnogenol
OPC's
procyanidins
resveratrol

BENEFICIAL Useful for lowering LDL cholesterol, diminishing varicose veins, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), lowering high blood pressure. A recent study shows that a particular polyphenol in red grape skins, resveratrol, inhibits platelet aggregation and is the component responsible for red wine's health benefits. Resveratrol is found in the skin of grapes. To read more about grape seed extract, click here.
Grape Seed extract and Hypertension:  Cardiovascular researchers at UC Davis, School of Medicine, completed the first human clinical trial to study the benefits of grape seed extract on patients with high blood pressure. The one month study was done on 24 male and female patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, which is a combination of factors that add up to high risk for heart disease, including elevated blood pressure, excess abdominal body weight, high blood cholesterol fats, and high blood sugar. The patients were divided into three groups of eight. The first group received a placebo while the second and third groups received 150 mgs and 300 mgs, respectively, of a grape seed extract developed and made by Polyphenolics, a division of Constellation Wine US. All participants' blood pressure was automatically measured and recorded for 12 hours after grape see extract ingestion. Participants in the two groups receiving grape seed extract experienced an average drop in systolic pressure or 12 mm and diastolic pressure 8 mm compared to placebo. To read more of the complete article, click here.top

Hawthorne

hawthorne berries

AVOID  Hawthorne raises blood pressure. According to the PDR for herbal medicines (something like the PDR for prescription medicines) hawthorne can cause blood pressure to go up especially if used in combination with beta blockers. (Murray & Pizzorno 1996). It has been noted in animal studies with a guinea pig's heart to increase cardiac output. (Muller 1999). There was a short term study (8 weeks) where it improved cardiac output with coronary insufficiency of 30 test subjects. (Leuchtgens 1993) There are a multitude of interactions with hawthorne and other medications especially those taken for the heart, heart disease and blood pressure.
I have experienced blood pressure spikes by drinking Celestial Seasonings Caffeine Free Tea. About once every two weeks my pressure would spike up to 140/90 from its usual of 115/80. Since I stopped both teas : Celestial Seasonings Caffeine Free Tea and Celestial Seasonings Honey Vanilla Chamomile - no more spikes in blood pressure. Celestial seasonings web site, check out the ingredients of their teas. Many contain licorice or hawthorne.

Honey Clover
clover honey avoid polycystic liver disease
AVOID
Clover, especially clover honey
Avoid with liver cysts.

clover
AVOID Clover honey is one of the most common and inexpensive honeys available. This is an estrogen disruptor and can increase liver cyst growth.
In the 1940's, the sheep farmers of Perth in western Australia began to experience an epidemic of still births despite three seasons of exceptionally good weather. The handsome merino sheep looked healthy. However, the ewe's failed to go into labor; the lambs died in still birth and often the mothers as well. In a matter of 5 years, the ewes failed to conceive at all even after repeated breeding with fertile rams. Federal and agricultural specialists found the problem. It was clover.
Fifteen years earlier, ranchers had imported a clover variety from the Mediterranean region in Europe. The first scientific paper on this phenomenon appeared in the Australian Veterinary Journal in 1946 and proclaimed this as "clover disease". Three years later (3) chemicals were identified as suspects. Formononetin only one of the chemicals was determined to be the culprit. Formononetin strongly mimics estrogen. top
From the first article below, GEN is the same isoflavone in both soy and clover. "Hence, it is an open question whether GEN has exclusively beneficial effects, as claimed by industrial companies, or whether they are endocrine disruptors that endanger the mammary gland or the uterus. Furthermore, little is known about the biological effects of GEN after long-term oral administration, which is the common method of treatment in postmenopausal women."

Horse Chestnut
Aesculus hippocastanumhorse chestnut

Horse Chestnut when made into a cream it is said to be useful for lessening spider veins. I tried it for matted telangectasias. It did not do anything to diminish these. Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) Studies done in Europe found that horse chestnut helped to increase blood flow up and out of the legs, strengthen connective tissue, tighten up veins, decrease redness and swelling, and relieve painful leg conditions caused by poor circulation. One of its compounds, Aescin, has been found to close the small pores in the walls of the veins, making them less permeable. This strengthens the vein walls and reduces leakage of fluid into the surrounding tissues. Take horse chestnut capsules containing 50-300 mg of aescin 2-3 times a day, or 1-5 drops of horse chestnut tincture three times a day. Improvement should be within six weeks. Avoid horse chestnut if you have liver or kidney disease or if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Unlike diuretics, horse chestnut is unlikely to cause potassium deficiency or raise blood pressure. AVOID may be harmful to liver when taken internally.top

Kava-kava
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID Kava kava is toxic to the liver. Two (2) cases of hepatitis with elevated liver enzymes have been reported. The enzymes normalized after stopping the herb; kava interferes with blood clotting. This maybe a problem with those on dialysis. It can cause an increase in bleeding time. Contraindicated in individuals with depression ; it increases the risk of suicide. Contraindicated during pregnancy and in nursing mothers.

Kola Nut

kola nut flowe
AVOID raises blood pressure. Contains caffeine which increases cyclic AMP. This causes kidney cysts to increase in size. similar to other xanthine-containing herbs like cocoa, tea, coffee, guarana and yerba mate. topKola nut has stimulant effect on the central nervous system and heart. Animal experiments indicate that kola nuts have analeptic and lipolytic (fat-burning) properties, and stimulate the secretion of gastric juices. Human studies show kola nuts have positive chronotropic and weak diuretic effects. Autonomic changes include increased body temperature, increased blood pressure and increased respiratory rate. Effects may last up to 6 hours after ingestion.

Lei Gong Teng

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.comRadixTripterygii
Wilfordii
Triptolide

CAUTION Lei Gong Teng has been found in mice to aide kidney cysts. Triptolide is derived from a Chinese medicinal herb, named Lei Gong Teng, which has been used in traditional medicine to treat cancer, inflammation, and auto-immune diseases. Recently, it also has been tested in Phase I clinical trials as an anti-tumor agent. One study, with mice bred to have a disease like human polycystic kidney disease, used triptolide with a less toxic concentration than that used in cancer chemotherapy trials. At that level, the compound reduced cyst formation in the mice compared to genetically similar mice not taking the compound. Do not attempt these herbs without the supervision of a nephrologist. Lei Gong Teng can be very highly toxic.top

Licorice

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID raises blood pressure. Licorice gives wild fluctuations to blood pressure and raises blood pressure causing spikes. Licorice root can be chewed to aide in stopping cigarette smoking. Consumption of licorice is believed to aid in healing stomach ulcers. Tea made from licorice and other anti-spasmodic herbs is often taken for menstrual cramps. Excessive amounts may raise blood pressure and cause fluid retention. Should be avoided during pregnancy and by anyone with high blood pressure, heart or kidney ailments. Many Celestial Seasonings herbal teas contain licorice. It wasn't until a friend pointed this out, that I discovered the reason for blood pressure spikes.

top

Maca
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
Lepidium
Peruvianum Chacon

AVOID Maca contains large amounts of calcium and potassium, as well as iron, silica, and many other trace minerals. It is used in Peru to treat and prevent osteoporosis. It might be useful for hot flashes. I have not experienced these so I am not sure about this. Maca is said to be the herbal equivalent of viagra, increasing libido in both men and women. It is said to balance hormones. It is alkaline producing and useful for individuals taking a raw food diet. MaCafe, a caffeine free coffee substitute. It contains estrogen like substances which may trigger liver cyst growth.

top

Magnolia Officinalis
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
 Chinese Herb

AVOID Magnolia Officinalis was one of the famous Chinese herbs that can lead to bladder cancer.
It is not the herb itself. It is when a substitution is made from this herb to an Arstolochia type herb and then the person takes Aristolochia along with a vasoconstrictor such as Fenformin. Aristolochia when combined with vasoconstrictive agents (such as Fenformin) causes a rapid, progressive tubulointerstitial atrophic nephritis and urothelial cancer. Bladder cancer can develop following an acute drop in kidney function. It has been recommended that if there is any chance of this being the source of a rapid sudden onset of declining in kidney functioning that it would be prudent for the surgeon to removed and replace the ureters as well to prevent the formation of a cancer in the new transplanted kidney.        
 From Nephrology meetings April 2001 Dr. Marc E. De Broe, MD, Ph.D
top

Milk Thistle
Silybum marianum

Silymarin

 pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

Polycystic Kidney Disease milk thistle

milk thistle

milk thistle

BENEFICIAL Milk thistle plus (milk thistle, turmeric, and artichoke) seems to relieve pain and decrease liver girth and eases any aches surrounding the liver area. Researchers studied the effects of St. John's wort, ginger, echinacea, green tea and milk thistle on the white blood cells and nerve cells of mice. Milk thistle was the only herb that boosted both the immune and nervous systems, helping nerve cells produce more neurites and keeping cells alive longer. For more details and articles on milk thistle click here.  top
.Preliminary laboratory studies also suggest that active substances in milk thistle may have anti-cancer effects. One active substance known as Sylmarin has strong antioxidant properties and has been shown to inhibit the growth of human prostate, breast, and cervical cancer cells in test tubes. More testing is needed. Milk Thistle is a liver healing herb. There are no known drug interactions. Further research is needed to see if it potentiates aspirin intake and if milk thistle has anti-cancer effects.top
Milk thistle most impressed the medical world when G. Vogel, M.D., used it to save lives in the 1970s. A leading milk thistle researcher, Dr. Vogel brought to his clinic 60 people suffering from severe mushroom poisoning. He gave them a compound called Sylmarin that was extracted from milk thistle and found that "results ranged from amazing to spectacular," even though most of the people were not treated until a full day after eating the bad mushrooms.
Dr. Vogel and other well-known plant researchers, including Hildebert Wagner, Ph.D., have found that the antioxidants in milk thistle called flavonoids are some of the most potent liver-protecting substances known. One important function of antioxidants is to protect the liver against damage from heavy metals and other toxic substances in the air and the food we eat. In case you think that heavy metal exposure is nothing to worry about, consider that more than 600,000 tons of lead are put into the atmosphere every year in the United States alone. Heavy metals are all around us—lead solder in tin cans, lead and cadmium in cigarette smoke, mercury in dental fillings and some cosmetics, and aluminum in antacids. Research conducted in Germany has shown that milk thistle helps protect the liver from drug and heavy metal poisoning. As a result, milk thistle is the basis for a number of German drugs used to treat liver problems. I photographed milk thistle growing in the wild in the forest surrounding my previous home in the Blueridge Mountains. I found it while recuperating from liver resection surgery. For the liver I have found milk thistle very beneficial.
top

BENEFICIAL for liver functioning. For some milk thistle diminished cystic liver pain, increased the metabolism of estrogen through the liver. A naturopath physician explained that as good as milk thistle, cabbage, and artichoke were at normalizing estrogen metabolism, turmeric was perhaps ten or twenty times better. I tried organic turmeric capsules taking one three times a day. This had even better results. Milk thistle is diuretic and interferes with immunosuppressive agents. . Milk thistle (Sylmarin) has been used since Greco-Roman times as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly liver problems. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries physicians in the United States used milk thistle seeds to relieve congestion of the liver, spleen, and kidneys. Today, several scientific studies suggest that active substances in milk thistle (particularly sylmarin) protect the liver from damage caused by viruses, toxins, alcohol, and certain drugs such as acetaminophen (a common over the counter medication used for headaches and pain; acetaminophen, also called paracetamol, can cause liver damage if taken in large quantities or by people who drink alcohol regularly.) A comprehensive review by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) recently identified 16 scientific studies on the use of milk thistle for the treatment of various forms of liver disease. A European standardized extract of milk thistle was used in most of the trials.

ALERT if you are taking immunosuppresive drugs or blood thinners.

ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

Mint
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

ALERT Peppermint can aggravate GERD and reflux some common symptoms with large cystic organs. It relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. Use sparingly if you have acid reflux esophagitis. Otherwise fresh mint flavors water refreshingly on a hot summer day. I add a few leaves to soups and sauces. One of my favorite drinks is 2 cucumbers, 2 apples, and 8 mint leaves all juiced together - a light refreshing liquid to quench the thirst that is also high in nutrients, low in potassium and phosphorus.

top

Moringa
Drumstick Plant,
Behen,
Indian Horseradish

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
Moringa Oleifera

BENEFICIAL Moringa Oleifera or Drum Stick Plant - the leaves, often called malungai or murungai are known to be high in potassium, iron, and protein. Folk medicine has this vegetable to be helpful for kidney disease, particularly the long pods of the tree. In India the these pods (30-60 cm long) are known as drumstick vegetable and served with a cooked sauce called Sambar.
In the Philippines the leaves are cooked in a chicken broth (perhaps a little wild chicken if you can catch one!) is mixed with onion, garlic and young green papaya (young green papaya tastes a bit like chayote squash).
The seeds due to the presence of mustard oil, have an antimicrobial effect. Indian medicine has used this for rheumatism. Efficacy for rheumatism seems plausible because of the stimulating effect of the isothiocyanates. It is also known as an aphrodisiac probably due to the relaxation of the pelvic musculature. top
Moringa Oleifera might be useful in helping to alleviate some of the world's hunger. Here is an article about Malungai's use in rats to counteract the harmful effects of Tylenol

Nettle
urtica semennettle

BENEFICIAL Nettle, organic nonalcoholic nettle extract. It eliminates uric acid (high in gout and PKD) and is an effective topalkalizer. Studies in Europe have shown increased urine flow and reduction in residual urine (residual urine can lead to chronic urinary tract infections). I use non - alcoholic nettle extract from time to time to give a boost of alkalinity as it is high in potassium, lowers uric acid, and a very effective alkalizing agent. Nettle root affects hormones and proteins that carry sex hormones (such as testosterone or estrogen) in the human body; this may explain why it helps benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Nettle leaf (1000 mg. daily) suppresses the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha and in this way might be useful for kidney health. Here is an article about stinging nettle extract lowering creatinine. I suspect the chief reason it does this is because stinging nettle is an affective alkalizer, a potassium rich alkalizer, and it diminishes uric acid. If any decide to take stinging nettle non-alcoholic extract be sure to get frequent checks of your serum potassium. High potassium can stop a heart's beating.

Noni
Noni
Morinda citrifolia

AVOID Noni has had some cases of harm to kidneys according to the growers of noni juice. They suggested that individuals with kidney or liver  disease, avoid noni. Noni is very high in potassium and has been a cause of dangerously high potassium levels. Lemon juice is a great flush, low in potassium, easier to obtain, and makes one alkaline. There are several cases in the literature that link noni to inflamed livers (hepatitis). It is a liver toxin.

Oregano

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

BENEFICIAL Oregano oil is great if you have an uncontrollable sweet tooth and it has been determined that you probably have a systemic yeast infection called candidiasis. By eating sugars this causes an overgrowth of yeast with a hindrance in the normal bacteria which line the intestines. The overgrowth suppresses normal flora. This flora of the intestines helps to digest foods we eat. It may be prudent to take an additional capsule of acidophilus and mix it in a half cup of plain yogurt while on antibiotics.top
Yeast thrives on sugars. When you get a craving for a sugar laden sweet it is your the yeast within a body saying," feed me, feed me. If you don't feed me some sugar soon, I will die." Oregano oil just one drop daily, travels through the intestines, laying a track where yeast cannot grow. The beneficial bacteria move in and re-populate the gut. I take extra B during this time period. Sugars wash away the body's Vitamin B reserves. A study at Johns Hopkins University USA, used oregano oil with immunosuppressed children. They tried the usual yeast treatment vs. oregano oil. Oregano oil won hands down. It burns a little within your mouth so I pop a dried cherry in my mouth to counteract the taste. Within three days my sweet tooth has gone.

Parsley

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

BENEFICIAL Parsley lowers blood pressure. Wonderful blood pressure regulator. Loaded with Chlorophyll which aids the body to detoxify. It is a mild diuretic but gentle in its effect on kidneys. It does not cause potassium depletion. I pull this up from my garden each morning and munch away. Parsley is also a source of alpha-linolenic acid, an important essential fatty acid. It is an adequate source of beta carotene, which the body needs for the correct use of protein. This nutrient will benefit the liver and also protect the lungs and colon. When tested in laboratory research, chlorophyll from parsley showed slight anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity. Parsley contains traces of B12 producing compounds. Fluorine abundantly found in parsley. Fluorine has an entirely different molecular structure from chemically-produced fluoride. Tooth decay results from a shortage of fluorine, not fluoride. It is the combination of calcium and fluorine which creates a very hard protective surface on teeth and bones. Fluorine also protects the body from infectious invasion, germs and viruses. Parsley is a source for vitamin C and iron.

Peppermint
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

ALERT Peppermint can aggravate GERD and reflux some common symptoms with large cystic organs. It relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. Use sparingly if you have acid reflux esophagitis. Otherwise fresh mint flavors water refreshingly on a hot summer day. I add a few leaves to soups and sauces. One of my favorite drinks is 2 cucumbers, 2 apples, 8 mint leaves all juiced together - a light refreshing liquid to quench the thirst that is also high in nutrients, low in potassium and phosphorus.
top

Potato


potato

AVOID In the vegetable garden, tomato, potato, eggplant and pepper belong to the deadly nightshade family. Tobacco is the fifth member, and all contain the toxic substance solanine. Tomato leaves and stems contain the poison found in potato. Sensitive people have skin eruptions if the leaves touch them. Potato and tobacco are the most dangerous. Skins of potato will turn green when stored in the light. This green part, and any sprouted eyes, must be removed before eaten. Farm animals have died when fed potato plants and spoiled potatoes. Humans experience grave illness and sometimes death from the green part of the potato. The world health organization has called an emergency meeting to look at an urgent health concern with potato chips, french fries, and other fried and baked goods which contain high amounts of acrylamide, especially present in the potato when it is heated to a high temperature. top

Raspberry Leaf
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

BENEFICIAL Raspberry leaf and raspberry fruit can cause a softening of the pelvic muscles; improvement of uterine tone and blood supply can be seen. It can prevent postpartum hemorrhage. It is said to be useful the last trimester of pregnancy to facilitate an easier birth and shorter labor.

ALERT if you are pregnant and prone to miscarriage avoid raspberries. Its mode of action is through relaxation of the pelvic muscles. I found this very useful for pudendal nerve entrapment and vestibulitis.top

 

Rose Hips
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

BENEFICIAL Rose hips are round seed filled purses from rose bushes. Rose hips are very rich in Vitamin C and are said to have blood-purifying and infection- fighting properties. This tea is often combined with hibiscus flowers to make a vitamin C rich tea that is very pleasant to drink.

ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

top

Rosemary
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID Rosemary can raise blood pressure. During World War II, juniper berries and rosemary leaves were burned in French hospitals to kill germs. It is used as a hair rinse to darken and retain the original color of hair. It helps to control premature baldness. Hair loss caused by oil and acid attacking the hair follicles can be prevented by a rosemary rinse. Rosemary is said to help break up toxins surrounding the pancreas, the adrenals and outside the liver. Animal tests have demonstrated spasmolytic effects on the gallbladder ducts and on the upper intestine. When placed in a pillow it is said to alleviate insomnia and restless sleep. Bees are particularly fond of Rosemary. It is an antioxidant herb with a strong memory and brain stimulant. I think part of this is due to its beautiful fragrance. I love the smell of rosemary wafting from the oven. I use it freely to flavor meat dishes I prepare for my husband. If you wish to imprint a memory upon your brain, choose at least three of your senses. Take and feel and touch the texture of piece of cloth, smell the aromas throughout the room, and listen to what is being said. This will imprint as a memory. Choose any three of your five senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste; a classification attributed to Aristotle. The exception to this is for the ladies who are thought to have a sixth sense about things.top
Rosemary raises blood pressure when taken internally.

Saffron
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

(Crocus sativus)


Saffron Tea
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1 cup of water Simmer on the stove until it is reduced to a half cup of liquid. Strain, cool and sip. More Saffron recipes

saffron liver cyst herb pld polycystic liver disease lowers blood pressure helps depression

BENEFICIAL Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery. I have found this to be of great benefit to the liver. It is useful for many types of liver diseases, cirrhosis, hepatitis, and of course polycystic liver disease. It is especially useful when the blood vessels become compromised and stretched and squished by ever expanding organs. The body is stimulated to lay down new vessels to by pass the obstruction. I experienced this effect.
Saffron diminishes micro-hemmorhages and clots. It helps to heal the liver by decreasing scar tissue formation. It stimulates the natural endorphins which exist in the brain and is a useful aid for alleviating pain in the liver.
Saffron contains a chemical called crocetin that lowers the blood pressure. Other uses for saffron which date back to the Greek as well as Egypt - are as an anti-spasmodic, helps to expel gases accumulated in the digestive tract, eases digestive disorders, it is rich in Vitamin B2, B12, and riboflavin, it soothes the membranes of the stomach and colon, helps reduce cholesterol, neutralizes uric acid build up, enlargement of the liver and gallbladder - Saffron's medical properties are mentioned in 500 B.C. in one of the oldest Ayurvedic treatises. The Japanese are developing a medication from saffron for the treatment of Parkinson's.
Crocus sativus is a small bulbous perennial herb. It is valued for its famed condiment, saffron, constituted by the stigma and style of the flower. It contains crocin and picocrocin together with lycopene, b-carotene, g-carotene and zeaxanthin. It is rich in riboflavine and also contains thiamine. Saffron is used as a nervine sedative and emmenogogue and in fevers, melancholia and enlargement of the liver. It has an essential oil, the active ingredient of which is aphrodisiac in nature. The mechanism of its sex-stimulating activity is effected by a slight stimulation of the central nervous system. More on saffron.

ALERT Saffron is an aphrodisiac. In pregnancy: may cause a relaxation of the pelvic musculature leading to miscarriage. A recipe for an aphrodisiac desert is saffron spelt lemon cake drizzled with red raspberries. Saffron is one of my favorite herbs. I found it to be very beneficial for liver cyst pain and easing symptoms.

ALERT  Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

top

Saw Palmettopkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

saw palmetto

BENEFICIAL Useful for benign prostatic hypertrophy. My husband who does not have PKD notices when he takes this, he can take the chips out of the porcelain toilet bowl from the strength of his stream. I do not know its kidney affects. Check with your own doctor. American Urological Associations annual meeting published in Urology found a 32% decrease in dihydrotestosterone, a hormone associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia or enlarged prostate in men who took 318 grams of saw palmetto daily for 6 months. The study did not rely on patient observations but needle-biopsied prostate tissue taken from subjects before and after surgery. 1994 study by Blaeckman of 305 men revealed 88% improved urinary flow, residual urine flow and reduced prostate size after 90 days.
Saw palmetto extract has also been combined with a nettle root extract to successfully treat BPH. One study using a combination of saw palmetto extract (320 mg per day) and nettle root extract (240 mg per day) showed positive actions on symptoms of BPH over a one-year time.top
There are no proven uses of saw palmetto for women. No significant side effects have been noted in clinical studies with saw palmetto extracts. However, in rare cases, saw palmetto can cause stomach problems. My husband says it makes him a little sleepy, so he takes it at night. A few women with PKD have reported it decreases pain.

Soy
AVOID

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
genistein (GEN)

soy
Edamame

AVOID Soy increases liver cyst growth.This is empirical knowledge. Soy milk given to babies causes females to menstruate and the testicles of male babies do not descend. Banned from New Zealand Baby formulas. I tried eating tofuttie cuties, a soy ice cream sandwich, really delicious, but my liver grew from the phytoestrogens in soy. Edamame  枝豆   is the name given to a dish of tasty baby soybeans in the pod boiled in water served whole. I do not eat soy as I have severe polycystic liver cysts that became noticeably enlarged after eating soy products.          

                                                                              
Monsanto, a huge corporation, genetically modify soy beans so that planted soy beans could withstand massive amounts of herbicide weed killer called Round Up. The European Community became enraged by this act. Soy lecithin is in many infant formulas, baked goods crackers, prepared foods, and more. Following many months of negotiations with USA soy manufacturers, a label now appears on European foods with soy only that this product may contain some GM soy.

 

Monsanto gave away free GM soy beans to commercial farmers assuring themselves of a ready captured market for large quantities of their product, round up herbicide, translating to even greater corporate profits at the expense of health for humans, especially infants. New Zealand has taken the initiative and banned soy products from all infant formulas and foods. Both soy and clover have contain isoflavone genistein (GEN).

                                      

Star Fruit
AVOID
 
(Averrhoa carambola) Star Fruit

AVOID   Star fruit a known kidney toxin that can cause rapid sudden diminished kidney functioning. In the past I have enjoyed star fruit and mango, a traditional combination. Then I discovered that starfruit is a known kidney toxin. I stopped it right away. Star fruit originated in Southeast Asia and is readily available in Taiwan. Star fruit causes several symptoms in patients with chronic renal failure or end-stage renal disease. The symptoms vary and include insomnia, intractable hiccups, agitation, muscle weakness, confusion, consciousness disturbances of various degrees, seizures, and cardiorespiratory arrest. The various star fruit subspecies contain different toxins, including a powerful neurotoxin that is suspected to accumulate in blood, cross the blood-brain barrier in chronic renal failure patients, and eventually cause irreversible damage.

top

St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID St. John's Wort it affects metabolism of many many drugs: immunosuppressive, warfarin, digoxin, cyclosporin. The most important risk associated with Hypericum extracts are interactions with other drugs. For more about St. John's Wort including two (2) large trials, click here.

top

Stephania Tetrandra
 
Chinese Herb

stephania tetrandra pkd polycystic kidney disease

AVOID This contains Aristolochia acid in some Chinese herbal mixtures. Aristolochia when combined with vasoconstrictive agents (such as Fenformin) causes a rapid, progressive tubulointerstitial atrophic nephritis and urothelial cancer. Some substitutions are made for Magnolia. When the substitution is made and this is coupled with a vasoconstrictive drug, bladder cancer can develop following an acute drop in kidney function
from– Nephrology meetings April 2001 Dr. Marc E. De Broe, MD

Stevia
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID If used very sparingly, 4-5 grains stevia can be an effective sweetening agent. If used in great quantities, it is harmful to the kidneys. May induce kidney toxicity specifically at the proximal convoluted tubules. This herb to be used with great

ALERT in kidney disease and only in very very tiny amounts. Also known as sweet leaf tea.

 

top

Tomato

tomato

AVOID This is a member of the nightshade family - potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, belladonna, tobacco. - I have experienced pain after indulging in a freshly picked ripe and in season tomato. Plants in this family are estrogen producing plants. Nightshade plants contain high amounts of solanine which interferes with calcium absorption and these vegetables are high in potassium and limited as potassium restriction becomes an issue. I have heard that peeling tomatoes and soaking in ice water for an extended time, diminishes their potassium content. Tomatoes contain tiny seeds. These seeds can cause difficulties with diverticuli, a common side symptom from those with PKD. top

Thyme
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

BENEFICIAL Has antiseptic properties. Thymol is made From this. Useful fresh for flavoring soups, dishes. I also make a thyme tea just before a dental appointment to be assured that I will not seed any bacteria into my blood stream.

Amazingly enough, a "partnership" of flavors—soothing Lavender with pungent Thyme creates a truly enticing flavor, that works as an excellent condiment for beef stocks, lamb, venison, and whole-grain spelt breads and spelt bagels (without yeast).

top

Triptolide

pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
Lei Gong Teng
(RadixTripterygii
Wilfordii)
Triptolide

CAUTION Lei Gong Teng has been found in mice to aide kidney cysts. Triptolide is derived from a Chinese medicinal herb, named Lei Gong Teng, which has been used in traditional medicine to treat cancer, inflammation, and auto-immune diseases. Recently, it also has been tested in Phase I clinical trials as an anti-tumor agent. One study, with mice bred to have a disease like human polycystic kidney disease, used triptolide with a less toxic concentration than that used in cancer chemotherapy trials. At that level, the compound reduced cyst formation in the mice compared to genetically similar mice not taking the compound. Do not attempt these herbs without the supervision of a nephrologist. Lei Gong Teng can be very highly toxic.

top

Turmeric
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com
            (Curcuma longa)


pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

Olena

BENEFICIAL Turmeric is wonderful for a cystic liver. It increases the metabolism of estrogen and estrogen by products through the liver. Estrogen and other hormones cause liver cyst growth. When I have taken this herb daily it reduced pain from my cystic liver and when I took the organic capsules three times a day for several months, it decreased my abdominal girth from an enlarged cystic liver. Eventually I needed the liver resection to stabilize my liver cyst growth. A book, Waking the Warrior Goddess, discusses turmeric's ability to diminish three (3) types of hormones.


The Hawaiians call this herb, Olena. Freely use organic turmeric root to flavor dishes. Turmeric has many beneficial things for the liver. A UCLA study supports turmeric`s traditional and current uses. Written in BODY & SOUL Holistic Health 2002:
"Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, may reduce brain-tissue inflammation that is linked to Alzheimer`s disease". Turmeric was once used as a cure for jaundice as an anti-hepatotoxin, as an anti-inflammatory properties and a protector of DNA. Some have found turmeric to be very BENEFICIAL for liver cysts.

Uva Ursi
Bearberry

(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID  Uva Ursi contains tannins that are helpful for preventing urinary tract infections. This herb has diuretic qualities and for that reason should be used with caution. I do not know of anyone who has tried this herb. Uva ursi should not be taken longer than 2 weeks because of high levels of hydroquininone.
Contraindicated in pregnant women as it may cause miscarriage. Its mode of action is through quinine, a known agent which will cause miscarriages. Quinine is an aspirin like compound. Very acid forming. Do not drink cranberry juice or take vitamin C with Uva Ursi. Many medications interact with uva ursi.
top

Valerian
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID Tell your doctor if taking valerian and tell your surgeon you have taken it and tell the anesthesiologist. Valerian increases barbiturate induced sleep in animals,

ALERT Caution is suggested with valerian and anesthetics for surgery. A single case report of a person treated for coronary artery disease and they experienced cardiac and mental disturbances which may have been linked to an interaction with digoxin.

ALERT   Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

top

Veronica
Speedwell
(veronica officinalis
)
Veronica officinalis speedwell polycystic kidney disease polycystic liver disease PLD PKD

BENEFICIAL Veronica was used as a replacement for tea during war times. Veronica is an herb that some have used for quieting liver cysts and kidney cysts. It is called speedwell or veronica officinalis. Veronica is named not for a legendary beauty, but for an 18th century botanist. An herb with bright blue or lilac flowers, the plant is found throughout Europe, parts of Asia, and North America. Veronica's above-ground parts are considered medicinal, but the only physical effect researchers have found to date is a tendency to prevent ulcers and speed their healing.
Pour boiling water over 2 teaspoons of crushed herb. Allowed it to steep, strain and sip. The taste is pleasant. There are no known drug interactions. Veronica is sometimes recommended for indigestion, urinary tract infections, and rheumatism, but evidence of its effectiveness for these problems is lacking. Other uses--also unsubstantiated--include treatment of cough and other respiratory ailments, liver disorders, kidney problems, nervous agitation, and "tired blood." As a gargle, it's used for sore throat. Applied to the skin, it's thought to speed wound healing and relieve itching, chronic skin conditions, and "sweating of the feet." In Asian medicine, it's prescribed for hepatitis, diarrhea, fever, and boils. Some enjoy a cup of this tea at the end of a meal.

Wild Yam
pkd pld polycystic liver disease polycystic kidney disease pkdiet.com polycysticliverdisease.com alkalinediet.com

AVOID wild yam progesterone cream. Many have experienced an increase in cystic liver growth when applying this cream to the skin.

top

Willow Bark
willow bark

AVOID Willow bark, aspirin is derived from this herb. Willow bark can decrease kidney functioning. The use of willow bark dates back to the time of Hippocrates (400 BC) when patients were advised to chew on the bark to reduce fever and inflammation. Willow bark has been used throughout the centuries in China and Europe, and continues to be used today for the treatment of pain (particularly low back pain and osteoarthritis), headache, and inflammatory conditions such as bursitis and tendinitis. The bark of white willow contains salicin, which is a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is best avoided with PKD polycystic kidney disease.

ALERT   Put aside for two weeks prior to any surgery.

top

 

pkdiet.com polycystic kidney disease polycystic liver disease
last updated: Wednesday, April 2, 2014 9:11 AM

      DISCLAIMER                                                                                                                 Best viewed in Safari, free download