Kitchen Medicine

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Kidney Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)

 

Dried bean pods are an incredibly effective diuretic agent.
Prepared as a decoction they can be used to treat oedema that is due to heart or kidney trouble (simmer 2-3 handful in enough water so that after about 3 - 4 hours 1/2 - 3/4 of a liter remain). Usually it takes no more than 24h , or at the most 3 days before a strong diuretic effect occurs. This tea is recommended for kidney disease or inflammation as well as any other conditions of the urinary system including kidney/ bladder stones.

Note :Don't attempt using this remedy without consultation with a qualified herbalist . Kidney stones can be very sharp and unless they are sufficiently dissolved may be extremely painful to pass.

Bean pods have an inhibitory effect on uric acid formation and can dissolve any crystalline deposits like no other remedy.
A tea can also be prepared by infusing a tablespoon of dried pods in a cup of cold water for 8 hours and then simmering the infusion for a few minutes. This tea is recommended for mild diabetes, gout and rheumatism. (tablespoon doses throughout the day).
Bruised kidney beans boiled with garlic are said to cure stubborn coughs. The fresh raw beans and the roots are toxic.