Evidence supporting the use of: Couch grass
For the health condition: Kidney Infection

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Couch grass (Elymus repens, formerly Agropyron repens) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, especially in Europe, for supporting urinary tract health, including the treatment of kidney infections (pyelonephritis). Traditional herbalists have valued couch grass rhizomes for their purported diuretic and soothing properties, which were believed to help flush out bacteria and reduce inflammation in the urinary tract. Historical texts, including herbal compendiums from the 18th and 19th centuries, frequently list couch grass as a remedy for urinary complaints such as cystitis, urethritis, and kidney stones, although these uses were based mostly on empirical experience rather than controlled studies.

From a scientific perspective, evidence supporting couch grass for kidney infections is limited. Some laboratory studies have identified compounds such as polysaccharides, saponins, and volatile oils in couch grass that may have mild anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. However, there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials demonstrating efficacy against kidney infections specifically. Most modern herbal references cite couch grass as a traditional remedy for urinary tract discomfort rather than as a primary treatment for kidney infections. It may be considered as an adjunct for mild urinary symptoms, but not as a substitute for antibiotics or conventional medical care in cases of kidney infection.

In summary, the use of couch grass for kidney infections is justified primarily by tradition, with only modest evidence (rating: 2/5) and a clear lack of robust scientific validation for its effectiveness in treating this condition.

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