How to understand KIDNEY in traditional Chinese medicine

Condition analysis:
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the kidneys are the fountain of youth, the foundation for a healthy, vital life and for graceful longevity. They are to be guarded and nurtured by living wisely, so that they in turn may continue to supply us with strength well into old age.

TCM was, of course, a prescientific medicine without knowledge of hormones, amino acids, enzymes, and the like, and so it described kidney function in different terms. In TCM, the kidney is the foundation for growth, development, and reproduction; for healthy bones and marrow; and for brain functions such as memory, concentration, and intelligence. The kidney regulates fluid metabolism; supports keen hearing, healthy hair, and strong sexual function; and supplies us with willpower and motivation. Between the two kidneys, at the small of the back, resides the ultimate life force known as the "The Gate of Vitality."  16th Century TCM doctor, Zhang Jie Bin, describes it thus: "The Gate of Vitality is the residence of Yin and Yang, the Sea of Essence, and it determines Life and Death."

Kidney essence refers to our genetic inheritance – the constitution and resistance to illness that we inherit, which determines to a large degree how healthy and strong we will be. In traditional Chinese culture, guarding and cultivating one’s kidney essence was elevated to an art, reflected in innumerable martial arts exercises, herbal recipes, and prescriptions for healthy living. Today, Chinatown restaurants routinely serve kidney congee – rice porridge with kidneys – to old people who are diligently applying the principle of "like for like."

Instructions:
Herbs for kidney
1. Rehmannia: Rehmannia is an herb that is less well known in the West but has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine since ancient times. The steamed roots of rehmannia have been widely used to fight various renal diseases. A 2009 study revealed that this herb has reno-protective effects on progressive renal failure by reducing angiotensin II, AT1 receptor, and by regulating TGF-β1 and type IV collagen expression.  Phytosterols, antioxidants, along with iridoid glycosides are reported to be responsible for rehmannia's therapeutic benefits on the kidneys.

2. Banaba: An ornamental plant indigenous to Australia, India and tropical countries in Southeast Asia, banaba has been used since ancient times as a natural diuretic and as a remedy for kidney and bladder problems.  While much research is focused on the herb's high levels of corosolic acid and how this may improve blood sugar levels among type II diabetics, the leaves of banaba have also been used to relieve urinary tract infections. Evidence also suggests regular intake of banaba leaf tea can alleviate the discomfort associated with kidney stones and help prevent gallbladder stones.