The urinary system is responsible for the elimination of urine . The urinary system consists of the kidneys (2), ureter (two), bladder, and urethra.

The two bean shaped (weighing in at about 4 to 5 ounces each; measuring 4 to 5 inches long, 5 to 7 inches in width, and about 1 inch thick), compound glands are called the kidneys. They are located at the back of the abdomen, one on either side of the upper lumbar vertebrae. Because the right lobe of the liver is larger than that of the left, the right kidney sits lower than that of the left kidney. The kidney's duty is to remove waste from the blood.

Urine travels down two thin tubes, called an ureter (one from each kidney, they measure 10 to 12 inches long and 1/2 inch in diameter) and deposited into the bladder. The bladder, is an oval shaped bag, that is located in the pelvic cavity. At the neck of the bladder is a circular muscle called a sphincter muscle. The duty of the sphincter muscle when signaled by a nerve impulse is to start the void (urination) process. From the constricted end of the neck of the bladder the urethra evolves. A full bladder discharges urine through the urethra.

The color and quantity of urine varies according to diet, circumstances (health, illness), and size of person (child, adult). Urine concentration is estimated at about 90 percent water and 10 percent solids (various salts, uric acid, urea).

Health concerns of the urinary system involving the kidney and/or urinary tract may develop due to disease, illness, injury or bacteria infections. Urinary calculus (any stone(s) formed in the urinary system - kidney, ureter or bladder), kidney failure, bladder control problems (urine frequency, hesitancy or incontinence) and urinary tract infection (UTI) are just a few. Types of UTIs are: Cystitis, Urethritis, and Pyelonephritis; they can treated medically by anti-bacterial medications. A common urinary tract infection can sometimes be treated by a simple home remedy such as cranberry juice.

In order for the urinary system to function properly it must have enough water and potassium from normal dietary sources. Red vegetables (tomatoes-lycopene) and fruits (cranberry) benefit the urinary system, as well as vitamin C, E and folic acid are key.

Glandular Endocrine System

The endocrine system is a network of ductless glands that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream for transport to specific target organs, where they exert their effect. Along with the nervous system, the endocrine system coordinates and regulates many of the activities of the body, including growth, metabolism, sexual development and reproduction.

Some examples of these glands are the thymus gland, parathyroid, pancreas, pineal body, thyroid glands. If the endocrine glands are unable to perform their normal functions certain conditions may occur. An example: the parathyroid gland (the four glands above the thyroid) normally secretes the hormone parathormone. Parathormone's normal function is to regulate the amount of calcium in the blood. If an excess secretion occurs than the onset of trembling occurs due to the lack of muscular control. If there is a diminished secretion then a contraction of muscles (tetany); death occurs.

The proper function of the glandular system requires ample stores of minerals, particularly trace minerals. Three examples would be the thyroid need iodine, the pancreas need chromium and particularly men need zinc from their glandular system.

I have outlined the reproductive system as its own category for educational purposes, though it is part of the glandular or endocrine system.

Reproductive System (human)

The reproductive system contains organs and tissues that coordinate the production of mature gametes (male gamete - sperm; female gamete - egg) in union and their development; produce an offspring (child). The reproductive system is under control if numerous hormones.

Hormones are secreted by the pituitary gland, the sex organs (testes and ovaries) and the adrenal glands. The reproduction system of the male includes the testes, vas deferens, prostate gland, seminal vesicles, urethra, and penis.

The reproduction system of the female includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina, and the vulva.

Urinary - Key Products

• Uva Ursi - Herbal diuretic, medicine and urinary antiseptic. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully.
• Cranberry & Buchu - Famous home remedy, for urinary infection ,without the calories associated with drinking large amount of cranberry juice. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully.
• K Combination - Reduces inflammation and muscle spasms in the urinary system and increases the flow of urine. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully.
• Potas - herbal source of potassium
• Cornsilk - Good key product, can also be used as a support product.
• KB-C Chinese Herbal - Strengthens Water

Urinary - Support Products

• Dandelion - This weed-like nuisance, is considered by herbalists one of the most nutrient-rich plants for the urinary and glandular systems.
• Hydrangea
• K-C Chinese Herbal -QU SHI -Eliminates Moisture.
• Marshmallow - Very good support for the respiratory system.
• Parsley - High Chlorophyll content, great as a breath mint, good buffer for garlic breath.

Reproductive - Endocrine Key Products

• Master G - Provides nutritional support to all glands of the body.
• GlucoReg - Nutrients that may help the body to regulate sugar levels. Diabetes is becoming an epidemic. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully
• Men's Formula - herbal food and zinc supplement - Especially for men over 40 years.
• Women's Formula - Nutrients that balance a women's glandular and reproductive systems. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully
• Adrenal Support - Contains valuable nutrients, and New Zealand BSE-free bovine glandular substance. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully

Reproductive - Endocrine Support Products

• C-X-Nutrients for Women experiencing menopause. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully
• FCS II - Nutrients to support the female reproductive system. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully
• Evening Primrose Oil - Vital for women physiological needs.
• F.E(Flash Ease) Formula - Keep Cool with Black Cohosh. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully
• KC-X-Thyroid Gland Support
• X-A - Nutritional support for urinary and reproductive systems. - Very good support for the kidneys and prostate gland.
• Black Cohosh - Nutritional support for the female reproductive system. Keep cool with Black Cohosh. RISK ALERT: Read label carefully
• Chromium - Critical supply required by the body, as to perform vital life sustaining cellular processes.
• Siberian Ginseng-Anti-Stress Tonic - Can be use by both sexes.
• Maca - May provide a natural means for improving sexual desire and performance. It may also support physical and mental strength in both males and females
• Wild Yam & Chaste Tree