Kidney disease, from acute to chronic to terminal phases, is very responsive to naturopathic interventions. As one of our guiding principles suggests, we do best when we identify and treat the cause. Diabetes, hypertension, heavy metals or drug toxicity, autoimmune reactions and many other factors will be discussed, and specific responses detailed. We have a number of naturopathic doctors who have focused on renal disorders, and a few have produced excellent textbooks describing alternative and integrative remedies to restore function, and quality of life, across the spectrum of dysfunction, including how to support dialysis and renal transplantation. In this talk we will explore evidence-based interventions that are reliable and safe, that should be at the forefront of our response to these conditions. Included are nutraceuticals, botanicals, TCM herbal formulations, dietary modification and adjuncts such as sodium bicarbonate and saunas. Equally important is a discussion of what is contraindicated. While we have a wide range of naturopathic strategies for many diseases, when dealing with life-threatening conditions, it is wise to recall the standards of care that should be at the foundation of protocols we advance
June 17, 2025; 1:00 – 2:00 PM EST
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lecture, the clinician will be able to:
- Understand the many causes of renal disease, and how to categorize its stages
- Identify important resources that detail evidence-based interventions
- Apply nutritional and other natural interventions to the cause of the disease, restoring function and QOL
- Recognize when and how to apply adjunctive care to medical standards of care including dialysis and organ transplantation
- Understand what is contraindicated in CKD cases
CE Credits
CONO: (pending approval) Category A – 1.0 credit (General)
British Columbia: Category C – 1.0 credit
AANP: 1.0 credit (General)
OANP/OBNM: For Oregon attendees seeking OBNM approved CE credits, please note that this event has not been submitted for approval to the OBNM. CE certificate will be issued upon individual request.

Dr Neil McKinney, B.Sc., ND (non-practicing)
Dr McKinney graduated from Simon Fraser University with degree in Biosciences and had a career in biophysical (radiation) cancer research. He studied kinesiology at the University of Waterloo and graduated as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from National College of Naturopathic Medicine in 1985. He concurrently trained 3 years in TCM at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine. Dr. McKinney has had many teaching roles, from lab instructor in microbiology at UVic and NCNM, to an instructor at schools of traditional Chinese medicine, massage therapy, and finally as a professor at BINM. He has served many roles in the regulation and advancement of the profession, including Registrar of the BC College of Naturopathic Physicians and as an accreditation evaluator for CNME. He founded the BC Naturopathic Association and the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine. He is a professor of Naturopathic Oncology, and author of textbooks of naturopathic oncology. Dr. McKinney is well known for his generous sharing of time and writings to mentor students and peers. He has received a number of awards for contributions to advancing the scope and standards of the naturopathic profession. He practices with a focus on integrative oncology in Victoria, BC.