Inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system is a widely accepted approach to treat immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy. Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) is considered to be involved in the pathophysiologic process of this disorder. Recent in vitro and clinical observations that wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) can decrease TNF-α levels.
Herbal drug wormwood markedly decreased protein excretion among ten patients who had biopsy-proven IgA nephropathy and creatinine clearances greater than 90 mL/min. The decrease in protein excretion was also observed six months after stopping the herbal supplement. Thujone-free wormwood with its favorable safety profile can be an alternative supplement to manage proteinuria in patients with IgA nephropathy.
Source:
Herbal drug wormwood markedly decreased protein excretion among ten patients who had biopsy-proven IgA nephropathy and creatinine clearances greater than 90 mL/min. The decrease in protein excretion was also observed six months after stopping the herbal supplement. Thujone-free wormwood with its favorable safety profile can be an alternative supplement to manage proteinuria in patients with IgA nephropathy.
Source:
Krebs S, Omer B, Omer TN, Fliser D. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) for poorly responsive early-stage IgA nephropathy: a pilot uncontrolled trial. Am J Kidney Dis 2010; 56:1095.