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What is the urinary system?

The urinary system is also known as the renal system. It is a vital part of the human body responsible for the production, storage, and elimination of urine, which is a waste product of the body's metabolic processes. 

When it comes to bodily systems, the urinary system often takes a back seat in our conversations about health and wellness. It consists of several key components, including kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, each playing a unique role in maintaining our internal equilibrium. 

The kidneys help regulate the balance of fluids and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium, etc.) in the body. They can adjust the amount of water and electrolytes reabsorbed or excreted, maintaining proper bodily functions. Each kidney is connected to the bladder via ureters for the transportation of urine through peristaltic contractions. The bladder, on the other hand, is a muscular sac that serves as a reservoir for urine until its expulsion. The urine then exits via the urethra which connects the bladder to the outside of the body.

Functions of the Urinary System

The urinary system performs a remarkable set of functions, including:

Filtration and Removal of Waste

Kidneys filter the blood to remove urea and creatinine which are then excreted as urine.

Acid-Base Balance

It maintains the body's acid-base balance by ensuring that blood pH remains within a narrow and healthy range.

Electrolyte Balance

It regulates the balance of fluids and electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, and calcium) in the body for proper cell function and overall health.

Blood Pressure Regulation

The kidneys control the blood pressure by adjusting the amount of water and sodium retained or excreted to manage blood volume.

Common Diseases Associated with The Urinary System

Some of the most common diseases associated with the urinary system are:

  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Kidney stones
  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
  • Acute Kidney Disease (AKD)

3 Supportive Herbs for the Urinary System

Cranberry

Cranberry

Cranberry (Vaccinium) contains compounds called proanthocyanidins, which can prevent certain bacteria, such as E. coli, from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. It's acidic in nature which can contribute to reducing urinary odor.

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the urinary system from oxidative stress and inflammation.  

Drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements is a popular natural approach for preventing recurrent UTIs, especially in women. Regular consumption of cranberry products may help maintain the overall health of the urinary system by reducing the risk of certain issues, including bladder infections and kidney stones.

Nettle

Nettle

Nettle (Urtica dioica) is used for various purposes, including urinary tract infections. It has mild diuretic properties, which means it can promote urine production and increase the frequency of urination. This effect may help in flushing out toxins and excess fluids from the body, potentially aiding people with conditions like edema (fluid retention).

Nettle root extract may help alleviate (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia) BPH symptoms by reducing inflammation and potentially improving urine flow. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties and reduce the pain and inflammation of the tract.

It also supports kidney health by promoting the elimination of waste products through increased urine production. You can use its tincture or consume it in the form of tea to purge all the harmful toxins for a robust tract.

Goldenrod

Goldenrod

Goldenrod (Solidago) has historically been used in traditional herbal medicine for various purposes, including supporting urinary system health. It’s famous for its diuretic effect which helps purge toxins and excess fluid from the body.

It contains substances with anti-inflammatory characteristics that could ease discomfort brought on by urinary tract inflammation and other similar disorders. It also supports the kidneys in maintaining proper fluid and electrolyte imbalance by increasing urine output and promoting the elimination of waste products.

Add Goldenrod Tincture or Goldenrod Tea to your routine to help maintain the overall health of the urinary tract and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Other Herbs for the Urinary System

Here are some herbs that are commonly used to support the urinary system: