As a healthcare consumer, you are likely aware of the many over-the-counter herbal remedies on the market. As a kidney patient, it is important to know these herbs may not be safe for you.
 
Unlike prescription drugs, herbal remedies are not required to be quality-controlled and are not tested for safety. There are no government regulations for herbs and natural remedies. Until herbs have had good controlled testing on healthy individuals, people with kidney disease need to use even more caution before taking them.
 
In order to take the appropriate precautions about using herbs, be sure to always inform your physician, nurse, pharmacist or dietitian of any herbs you may be taking or wish to take. Remember, some herbs may have unknown ingredients that may affect your blood levels of potassium, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium or others. Stop taking a product immediately if you have any adverse effects.

This article originally appeared in the June 2008 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.