Comprehensive Review of Polycystic Kidney Disease and Herbal Ingredients for its Management

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a common hereditary nephropathy characterized by the progressive development of numerous fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys, often leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It primarily exists in two forms: autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD), the most prevalent, and the rarer autosomal recessive PKD (ARPKD). Despite advancements in understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying PKD, current pharmacological treatments remain limited in efficacy and are often accompanied by adverse effects. In recent years, growing attention has been directed toward herbal and plant-derived compounds for their potential nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology, genetic basis, and clinical manifestations of PKD, followed by an in-depth evaluation of herbal ingredients and phytochemicals that have shown promise in experimental or clinical settings for PKD management. Key herbs such as Astragalus membranaceus, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Cordyceps sinensis, and curcumin are examined for their mechanisms of action in modulating cyst growth, oxidative stress, and renal fibrosis. Additionally, this review highlights the need for standardized formulations, dose optimization, and clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of these natural therapies in PKD patients.