In a big boost for the Narandra Modi government’s push to promote Ayush and Indian systems of medicine, an international medical journal has recognised the power of plant-based traditional herbs and Ayurveda in improving kidney function.
A study published in journal Avicenna Journal of Medical Biochemistry took note of research done by a team from the National Institute of Unani Medicine (NIUM) in Bengaluru has revealed the effectiveness of the herbal formulation Neeri KFT in regulating serum creatinine levels & improving kidney function.
In India, it is estimated that a population of over 7.8 million people are living with chronic kidney diseases. It is believed that nine out of ten patients cannot afford expensive treatment and this is the reason why this study hold significance as it explored the scientific facts and efficacy of traditional medicine as an affordable option.
In the study, they found that within 42 days of patient treatment, the Ayurvedic medicine prepared from herbs like punarnava, gokshura, varuna, kasni, makoy, palash, and giloy by AIMIL Pharmaceuticals helps effectively regulate serum creatinine levels, thus promoting overall kidney health. Dr. Sanchit Sharma, Executive Director of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals that makes Neeri KFT, stressed on the growing international recognition of traditional medicine, noting ayurveda’s mention of several remedies to strengthen kidneys, including the herbs used in Neeri KFT.
The NIUM team concluded in the published study that there was a greater need to emphasise the potential of traditional medicine in treating various diseases, despite low awareness levels, and urged for greater accessibility to affordable treatment options for all. Health experts say an early diagnosis of kidney disease is crucial, as demonstrated by the study’s findings of significant improvements when treatment begins at the onset or in the early stages.
However, the study also underscores the challenges faced by patients globally, with 90 per cent of Indian patients unable to afford treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), while over a million people worldwide rely on dialysis or have undergone kidney transplants.
As part of the NIUM study, researchers categorised patients into two groups, one was given Neeri-KFT while the other was provided with Kabab chini. After 42 days of intervention, the researchers observed a decrease in serum creatinine levels in both groups. Furthermore, there was an enhancement in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Both these parameters are indicators of improved kidney function.
Patients also experienced improvement in appetite and fatigue, the researchers noted.