E-ISSN:2456-3110

Case Report

Chronic Kidney Disease

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 6 JUNE
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Ayurvedic Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - A Single Case Study

AP Shrilata1*
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.6.59

1* AP Shrilata, Senior Ayurveda Physician, Jeevalaya Ayurveda Retreat LLP, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function. The kidneys play a vital role in eliminating waste, regulating fluids, electrolytes, and blood pressure, and producing red blood cells. Globally, CKD affects more than 10% of the population and often leads to end-stage renal failure requiring dialysis or transplantation both of which are expensive and not always successful.

Case Presentation: A 73-year-old male presented with complaints of frequent and frothy urination, fatigue, swelling, disturbed sleep, and a history of uncontrolled hypertension. Laboratory tests revealed elevated serum creatinine and a reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), indicating stage 3b CKD.

Intervention: The patient was managed at Jeevalaya Ayurveda Retreat LLP, Bengaluru, using Ayurvedic formulations including Guluchyadi Kashaya, Punarnavadi Mandoora, Neeri KFT syrup, and supportive in-house preparations. Treatment was complemented with a CKD-specific diet and lifestyle regimen. Clinical progress was tracked using serum creatinine, eGFR, hemoglobin, and blood glucose levels.

Outcome: Over five months, significant improvements were recorded, including reduced serum creatinine, improved eGFR, and better overall well-being. Thus, it can be concluded that Ayurvedic approaches are helpful to manage CKD.

Keywords: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR), Hemoglobin, Ayurvedic Formulations, Lifestyle Management

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
AP Shrilata, Senior Ayurveda Physician, , Jeevalaya Ayurveda Retreat LLP, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
Email: 		AP Shrilata, Ayurvedic Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - A Single Case Study. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(6):418-422.
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https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4390/

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2025-05-11 2025-05-27 2025-06-07 2025-06-17 2025-06-27
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
None Nil Not required 10.32

© 2025 by AP Shrilata and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025;10(6)418
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AP Shrilata et al. Ayurvedic Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Introduction

The kidneys are vital organs in the body that play a key role in eliminating waste products and excess fluids, maintaining acid-base and electrolyte balance, producing red blood cells, and regulating blood pressure.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) refers to the gradual decline in the filtration function of the kidney’s nephrons over time. In its early stages, it may present only as biochemical abnormalities, but as the disease progresses, it leads to the loss of the kidney's excretory, metabolic, and endocrine functions, eventually resulting in the clinical signs and symptoms of renal failure.[1]

Table 1: Stages of CKD[2]

StageeGFR
(ml/min/1.73m2		Description
1≥90Kidney damage with normal or increased GFR
260-89Mild reduction in GFR
Mild kidney damage
Kidneys still work well
3a45-59Mild to Moderate Kidney damage
Moderate reduction in GFR
Kidneys don’t work as well as they should
3b30-44Moderate to severe damage
Moderate reduction in GFR
Kidneys don’t work as well as they should
415-29Severe Kidney damage
Severe reduction in GFR
Kidneys are close to not working at all
5< 15 or ESRDMost severe kidney damage
Kidneys are very close to not working or have stopped working
Kidney failure

Case Report

A 73-year-old male patient visited Jeevalaya Ayurveda Retreat LLP, Bengaluru on 19th July 2024 with complaints of frequent and urgent urination during both day and night, accompanied by frothy urine. He also reported disturbed sleep, occasional swelling in the face and feet, fatigue, irritability, dizziness, reduced appetite, constipation, muscle cramps and recurrent respiratory infections since 6 months. He also mentioned a longstanding history of high blood pressure, for which he was not taking medication. The patient had a history of hospital admissions for symptoms such as weakness,

severe low back pain, and episodes of disorientation 4 years ago. During those admissions, diagnostic tests revealed elevated serum creatinine and other solutes, along with the presence of renal calculi. Symptomatic management was provided at that time. Patient had no relevant family history.

Table 2: Ashtavidha Pareeksha

Nadi84/min, regular
Mutra7-8 times a day, 3-4 times a night, frothy
MalaOnce daily constipated
JihwaCoated
ShabdaGambhira
SparshaAnushna Sheeta, Ruksha
DrikNormal
AkritiMadhyama

Vitals:

Pulse rate - 84/min
Respiratory rate - 24/min
Temp - 98.6°F
BP - 160/98 mm of Hg

Systemic Examinations:

CNS - Well oriented to time, place, person

CVS - S1, S2 Normal, Blood pressure - 160/98 mm Hg

RS - Normal vesicular breathing

P/A - Soft non-tender, no organomegaly, umbilicus centrally placed

Patient was advised to undergo fresh investigations. The results showed abnormalities in several parameters, including elevated serum creatinine and blood glucose levels. His estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 44 mL/min/1.73m², indicating reduced kidney function.

Diagnosis: Mutravaha Sroto Vikara (chronic kidney disease stage 3b)

Materials and Methods

Chronic Kidney Disease though not described distinctly in Ayurveda classics similar conditions are discussed under disorders of the Mutravaha Srotas such as Vrikka Roga, Mutrakricchra, Mutraghata, Mutrasangha, Ashmari, and Prameha, which provide comparable clinical insights.[3]

Prior consent was taken from the patient.


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Table 3: Treatment schedule

SNMedicineDosageTime of AdministrationAnupana
1.Guluchyadi Kashaya3tsp tid30 minutes Before food6tsp water
2.Tab. Punarnavadi Mandoora2 bdAfter foodWater
3.Syrup Neeri Kft2tsp tidAfter food2tsp water
4.Tab. Calmbp2 bdAfter foodWater
5.Tri2sen Powder1tsp HSBed time50 ml warm water

Results

In addition to Ayurvedic medications, the patient was advised on appropriate dietary and lifestyle modifications. Within two weeks, notable improvement was observed in the patient's kidney function and other health parameters. By the end of five months, significant overall progress was recorded.

Table 4: Laboratory Parameters before and after treatment.

Laboratory Parameters21/07/202403/08/202427/12/2024
Serum cretinine (mg/dL)1.551.311.16
eGFR (mL/min/1.73m2)445462
FBS (mg/dL)106.391.791
HbA1c7.16.46.2
Hb (g/dL)11.211.615.6

jaims_4390_01.JPG
Figure 1: Before Treatment

jaims_4390_02.JPG
Figure 2: After Treatment

Discussion

Effective Ayurvedic management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) involves understanding the disease (Roga), patient (Rogi), and Dosha-Dooshya involvement.

CKD, seen as a Mutravaha Srotas disorder, primarily involves Vata, with Pitta and Kapha. Treatment aims to enhance Agni (Digestive fire), balance Doshas (body humour), promote diuresis, and rejuvenate Srotas (Micro channels).[4]

Therapeutic interventions included:​

  • Guluchyadi Kashaya
  • Punarnavadi Mandoora
  • Neeri KFT syrup
  • In-house preparations: CalmBP and Tri2Sen

1. Guluchyadi Kashaya

Guluchyadi Kashaya, a classical Ayurvedic formulation mentioned in Ashtanga Hridaya, possesses multiple therapeutic properties, including Pittahara (Pitta-pacifying), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, depurative, detoxifying, and immunomodulatory actions. Guduchi, being the key ingredient, positively influences kidney index and GFR.


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This formulation supports immune function, enhances liver and kidney performance and helps balance the Tridoshas. It primarily acts on the Rasa, Rakta, and Medo Dhatus (Tissues).[5]

2. Punarnavadi Mandoora

Punarnavadi Mandoora, a classical Ayurvedic formulation widely used in managing kidney-related disorders such as CKD, addresses symptoms like Panduta (pallor) and Shotha (edema) due to decreased hemoglobin levels. This formulation acts on both Rasavaha (Lymph channels) and Raktavaha Srotas (Blood vessels), supporting improved circulation and blood quality.​

Components of Punarnavadi Mandoora mentioned in Bhaishajya Ratnavali[6] are helpful in balancing Kapha and Pitta Doshas by acting on the Srotas (microchannels) and enhancing Agni (digestive fire), promoting Deepana (carminative), Pachana (digestive), and Rasayana (rejuvenative) properties.​

Impaired erythropoiesis leading to anemia is addressed by the ingredient Mandoora Bhasma. The key herb Punarnava, along with other ingredients, acts as nephroprotective by reducing swelling, oxidative damage, blood sugar, creatinine, eliminating toxins and excess fluids, and improving GFR.​

3. Neeri KFT Syrup

Neeri KFT [7] syrup by AIMIL Pharmaceuticals supports kidney function through its nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It alleviates symptoms like pedal edema, puffiness, nocturia, cramps, and fatigue. The formulation lowers serum creatinine, uric acid, and blood urea while enhancing Agni and improving eGFR by regenerating kidney cells. It strengthens nephrons, corrects renal architecture, and reduces cardiovascular risks associated with CKD. Herbs like Punarnava and Kamala aid healing, while Kasini improves blood flow by reducing vascular congestion. Neeri KFT also decreases lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyls, slowing kidney damage and disease progression.​

4. Tab. CalmBP

Tab. CalmBP is an in-house formulation containing a blend of herbs, including Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Mukta Pishti (pearl paste), Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentina),

Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Amla (Emblica officinalis), and Rasona (Allium sativum).​

Jatamamsi reduces blood pressure through vasodilation, aids sleep, and supports cardiovascular health.[8] Jyotishmati, Shankhapushpi, Vacha, Brahmi, and Ashwagandha calm the nervous system and lower stress-induced hypertension. Mukta Pishti cools Pitta and balances Vata. Sarpagandha’s reserpine content makes it a potent antihypertensive.[9] Arjuna, Punarnava, Amla, and Rasona offer antioxidant, diuretic, and vasodilatory effects, helping reduce blood pressure and remove excess fluid and solutes from the body.​

Overall, Tab. CalmBP successfully managed the patient’s high blood pressure without the need for medications from other medical systems.​

5. Tri2Sen

Tri-2-Sen is an in-house Ayurvedic formulation containing Hareetaki (Terminalia chebula), Vibheetaki (Terminalia bellirica), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Pippali (Piper longum), Mareecha (Piper nigrum), Shunti (Zingiber officinale), and Swarnapatri (Cassia angustifolia). Primarily used to relieve constipation, Tri2Sen also offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and detoxifying benefits. The formulation contains Triphala, which supports kidney health by reducing proteinuria, preserving glomerular function, and regulating blood glucose and lipid levels. It contributes to gut microbiota balance and helps reduce the uremic toxin load in chronic kidney disease (CKD).[10] Trikatu enhances digestion, pacifies Vata and Kapha Doshas, and improves nutrient absorption. Swarnapatri promotes bowel cleansing, thereby aiding overall digestive and renal health.

Pathya-Apathya (Dietary and Lifestyle Guidelines)

Based on patient's symptoms, food habits, and Dosha imbalances, appropriate Pathya (wholesome) and Apathya (unwholesome) guidelines were advised. The patient was also instructed to avoid strenuous physical activities to aid recovery and support renal function.


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Table 5: Pathya Apathya

PathyaApathya
Vegetables - Ridge gourd, egg plant, cabbage, cucumber, bittergourd, drumstick, carrot, raddish, onion, tomato, knol-khol,Vegetables - Potato, Sweet potato, Cauliflower, Palak, spinach
Fruits - Apple, watermelon, jamun, pomogranate, custard apple, pearFruits - Banana, pineapple, mango, jackfruit
Ragi, red rice, barley, wheat, foxtail millet, jowar (limited), white rice (limited), flax seeds, rock salt(limited), desi gheeRefined wheat flour, fried food, deep fried food, Sugar
Water intake - not exceeding 1.5 L/day

Conclusion

Based on clinical history, laboratory investigations, & presenting complaints, case was diagnosed as chronic kidney disease (CKD). The Ayurvedic treatment strategy was framed in accordance with principles of Mūtravaha Srotovikāra management, addressing vitiation of Vāta, along with associated Pitta & Kapha disturbances. The use of classical & proprietary Ayurvedic medicines, alongside tailored dietary & lifestyle modifications, resulted in marked improvement in patient’s clinical condition & hematological parameters. This case highlights potential efficacy of Ayurvedic management in CKD & supports its role as complementary approach in chronic renal care.

Acknowledgement

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Mehul Doshi and Ms. Ami Sheth Doshi, Founders of Jeevalaya Ayurveda Retreat, for providing me with the opportunity and support to complete this work.

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