[uk herbal-list] Polycystic kidneys

[Guest guest]

Hello all,

Wondered if everyone would like a small break from SSR, Kava and now St.

's Wort.

Yesterday I saw a patient with the above condition. It was diagnosed

when she was 15. She is now 53 and has, so far avoided dialysis.

However, this past year and a half has been unbelieveably stressful for

her and she now feels that her kidneys have taken a 'turn'. Her last

visit to the Dr. was in November '02 where she was informed her kidneys

are now at 35% function. She is on Zestril (BP meds), Ativan (muscle

twitching) and Apo-ranitidine (reflux). I have given her information

regarding a well-planned vegetarian diet and ways to avoid salt. I will

also suggest vitamins/minerals as she was on a regime that she stopped

about a year ago. I am loathe to add herbs, given her kidney levels (I

haven't seen copies of her tests yet) but thought I would try Bach

flower remedies to help with her stress loads.

Any other thoughts? It has been very dificult to find any information

regarding this condition and what is safe when dealing with levels that

are this low.

Also, back to Kava. Has it been banned for external use as well?

Thanks in advance for any help.

Hope everyone had a lovely holiday season.

All the best,

Kerry