Cranberry Juice Extract: Traditionally, cranberry has been used to protect against pathogenic urinary tract conditions. Research suggests that its mechanism of action is preventing E. coli bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. Cranberry also maintains balanced urinary tract pH (acidify) and supports the body's ability to dissolve struvite (Magnesium-Ammonium-Phosphate) crystals, which may develop in urine if it is too alkaline.
Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis): The soothing properties of marshmallow make it useful in supporting the body's response to inflammation and irritation of the GI tract, and of the urinary organs. It is excellent for discomfort of the urinary organs, exerting a relaxing effect upon the passages. It also has mild diuretic properties, which supports the body's control of pathogen activity, and supports irritated tissues.
Astragalus Root: Astragalus (Huang qi) has been used as a popular herbal tonic in China for many centuries. One of its primary uses in TCM is to support the spleen. As an adaptogen, it maintains the body as it regains balance and is the most popular herb in Chinese medicine for its urinary and cardio supporting properties and other useful qualities. Astragalus is used to maintain normal functions of the liver, lung, kidney, spleen, stomach and heart, to detoxify the system, and to support white blood cell growth in supporting the immune system.
Rehmannia Root Cooked (Rehmannia rutinosa): Rehmannia (shu di huang) supports the blood and kidneys. TCM sees kidney dysfunction as a syndrome of excessive heat in the blood, impairment of body fluid generation and Yin-deficiency in all channels. Rehmannia is often selected in Chinese herbal formulas for its ability to nourish Yin, and normalize heat and moisture imbalances.
Hawthorn Berries (Crataegus oxyacantha): Healthy circulation is essential to kidney health, and studies show that hawthorn berries support heartbeat and maintain circulation in the blood vessels of the heart. Hawthorn berries support the body's ability to gently dilate the coronary vessels, maintaining the supply of arterial blood to the heart. This action supports oxygen utilization, maintaining a powerful heart muscle and blood circulation, which supports renal blood flow leading to renal clearance. This botanical also has mild diuretic action.
Corn Silk (Zea mays): Traditionally, herbalists have noted the soothing and diuretic properties of corn silk, using it to address all conditions of the urinary system. It is useful in support for uncomfortable urination, including pathogenic urinary tract conditions and kidney stones, and pathogenic activity in the bladder and kidney. Corn silk has been used in combination with other herbs to support the natural response to inflammation of the bladder and of the urethra. It is also used to maintain the normal flow of fluids, which may help reduce the formation of crystals by diluting particle matter present in the urine.
Olive Leaf (Olea europaea): The main beneficial constituent of olive leaf is the phytochemical oleuropein, which supports the body's ability to fight infection, and maintains the ability to interfere with amino acid production that viruses need to reproduce in the body. Olive leaf also supports immune response. Many flavonoids in olive leaf extract have been shown to support the body's normal response to inflammation.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf: Another botanical known for supporting healthy circulation, ginkgo maintains healthy blood flow to tissues and organs, supports against oxidative cell damage from free radicals and counter effects of unwanted blood platelet aggregation (blood clotting) that are implicated in the development of a number of health issues, including cardiovascular and renal disorders.
From the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, the formula's benefit to kidneys is enhanced through the focused use of herbs selected to support heart and spleen health, which in turn support the kidneys. Designed to support healthy function of the kidneys and bladder in cats and dogs needing prevention, maintenance and care for stressed kidneys, our blend of herbal and botanical ingredients in this