First, we'll mention barley, which can be consumed in various ways, notably in the manner of the Prophet ﷺ by preparing "talbina," a barley soup. It should be mixed with ginger and watercress. In some countries it is made liquid by adding honey, which will also be very effective in helping treat kidney failure.
It will also be possible to drink barley water or rice water.
As found in the hadiths of the Prophet ﷺ, it will be good to use acacia resin (gum arabic). This should be consumed between meals and away from medications, that is, more than two hours before or after taking them, as it is a powerful prebiotic.
Gum arabic comes in several forms, and for the treatment of kidney failure it should be taken in powder form, one small teaspoon diluted in water.
Finally, it will be important to boost immunity. To do this, reishi mushroom will be effective. It should be taken in capsule form, three per day, one before each meal, for a period of six months.
What the science says: talbina (barley), kidneys and urinary tract
What published research says about the remedies mentioned above, for context — the studies look at material causes, while healing belongs to Allah.
Talbina (barley)
The talbina that the Prophet ﷺ recommended to "rest the heart of the sick person" is a barley porridge: its beta-glucans reduce cholesterol and smooth out blood sugar according to several meta-analyses (Nutrition, 2011) (Eur J Clin Nutr, 2010) (Eur J Clin Nutr, 2016), and its tryptophan contributes to calming the body (J Diet Suppl, 2021). Nourishing, easy to digest, and filling, it suits those recovering from illness, children, and people under stress. Precaution: barley contains gluten — to be avoided in cases of celiac disease.
Kidneys and urinary tract
Cranberry reduces the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections in some people according to the Cochrane review (Explore, 2024); for kidney stones, abundant hydration and diet (citrate, less salt and animal protein) are the best-supported measures (Minerva Urol Nephrol, 2025) (Arch Ital Urol Androl, 2015). Orthosiphon, cherry stem, and birch help drain the system. Precaution: a urinary tract infection with fever or lower back pain is pyelonephritis — antibiotics are essential; in cases of kidney failure, avoid diuretic plants and magnesium/potassium supplements without medical advice.
