Kidney stones are the aggregates of mineral crystals present in urine. These stones are present in variable sizes, ranging from non-problematic to painful. Common causes of kidney stones are dehydration, genetics, poor diet, or medication.
Kidney stones are not dangerous when they are in the kidneys. When they exit the kidney and travel through the urinary tract, they cause blockage. This blockage results in pain and other symptoms. Usually, the symptoms include:
- Burning sensation and pain in urine
- Pain in the belly, back, and sides
- Small spurts of urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Cloudy urine with a foul odor
- Frequent urination
There are various types of kidney stones, such as calcium oxalate, uric acid, or calcium phosphate. Calcium oxalate is the most common- about 70% of all kidney stones.
Kidney stones are treated with oral medication, injections, and fluid therapy. In the worst cases, surgery is needed to remove kidney stones.
There are countless home remedies as well for treating kidney stones. However, consult your doctor before using any remedy.
Here are the seven best natural remedies that work against the kidney stones:
1. Water:
Of course, it goes without saying that water is critical for your urinary system.
Dehydration is the leading cause of kidney stones. It concentrates the urine and makes the minerals clump together in a stone.
Taking 12 glasses of water a day helps in passing the stones painlessly. Water is essential for treating and preventing kidney stones.
2. Wheatgrass:
Wheatgrass is another healthy option for treating kidney stones. It increases the urine flow, which helps in passing stones. Also, it contains many nutrients that cleanse the kidneys from mineral build-up. Wheatgrass inhibits the crystal growth of kidney stones by 88%, research says.
With its profile rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, wheatgrass is remarkable for overall health. Take 2 to 8 ounces of wheatgrass juice or use a powder supplement (if the juice is unavailable).
3. Citrus Fruits:
Citrate prevents calcium stones from forming. It binds up with the calcium in the urine and dissolves the crystal before they turn into stones. Moreover, it breaks large kidney stones into smaller ones to ease their passing.
Citrus fruits, such as lemon, lime, oranges, grapefruits, or tomatoes, are the best source of citrate.
Slice up oranges for a refreshing snack, chop up tomatoes to make a salad, or squeeze a lemon in a glass of water. Use them the way you want – the benefits are always there!
4. Apple Cider Vinegar:
Another noteworthy home remedy for kidney stones is apple cider vinegar. It contains acetic acid that works wonders in dissolving kidney stones. ACV cleanses the kidneys and also eases the pain associated with kidney stones.
Research with 9000 people suggested, in 2019, that those who consume dietary vinegar had a lower risk of kidney stones. However, more research is needed.
There are countless other health benefits of apple cider vinegar. From fighting obesity to regulating blood pressure to strengthening heart health, ACV is your health best friend!
There are many ways to include apple cider vinegar in your diet:
- Add 1-2 tablespoons to a glass of water and drink it thrice a day.
- Use apple cider vinegar gummies.
- Add it to soups and dishes.
- Sprinkle it in the salad dressing.
5. Kidney Beans:
Kidney beans-the name says it all-are the best traditional remedy for kidney stones. Soak kidney beans for 8-12 hours and boil them till they are soft. Strain the beans and use the water as broth at least once a day.
Kidney beans contain magnesium, a mineral that assists in treating kidney stones. It has been used for many years in traditional medicine for urinary health.
A 2020 study also suggests that kidney beans eliminate kidney stones and prevent more from occurring.
6. Pomegranate:
Pomegranate- where taste and health benefits come together! Pomegranate is a centuries-old remedy for kidney and urine health. It is rich in antioxidants that decrease oxidative stress, which causes kidney stone formation.
Astringent properties of pomegranate also come to benefit for preventing kidney stones. It detoxifies your kidney (and the whole body) and improves kidney function. Pomegranate decreases calcium oxalate, preventing the formation of stones in the kidney.
7. Celery:
Consuming celery juice regularly can flush out kidney stones with no difficulty. It is rich in potassium and antioxidants, which reduce the mineral build-up in the kidney. Thus, it prevents kidney stone formation.
Celery is considered a superfood concerning kidney health. It also helps in the increased production of urine. It holds a large amount of water to remove more toxins from the body.
You can take celery juice or add it to your soups or salad. For making juice, cut up 3-4 celery roots in smaller pieces. Blend them with some water and drink them right after.
Takeaway!
I kid you not! Kidney stones are hard to pass on their own. It gets quite painful and irritating. However, medicines can help. Also, these natural remedies increase the wonders of the medications. But always consult your doctor first before taking any medication or herbal remedy.
