The gallbladder aids in digestion by storing bile to dissolve fats. Gallstones created by cholesterol or calcium or fatty deposits in the gallbladder or bile ducts cause discomfort and pain, as well as inflammation.
According to Mark Goldstein, M.D., author of "Your Best Medicine," gallstones affect many people, with individuals over the age of 60 being the largest demographic.
Several herbs are available and may be taken for pain relief or to reduce inflammation. While the following herbs may improve the gallbladder or reduce pain, they are not an alternative to medical treatment.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is an herb grown worldwide with tall stems and a spiny violet flower. According to Arthur Roberts, M.D., author of "Nutraceuticals," milk thistle is edible and a good source of antioxidants like vitamin C as well as iron.
Milk thistle use in herbal formulas is to prevent liver damage and aid with gallbladder issues. Milk thistle works because the fruit and seeds contain fatty and essential oils and most importantly, it contains silymarin, a powerful antioxidant shown to prevent formation of gallstones by reducing cholesterol in bile.
Milk thistle comes in tea and tincture and pill formula and available in many health food stores or through a certified herbalist. A dose for an adult is 600 mg of milk thistle daily.
Gallstones can be a serious medical condition, and should not be self-treated. Consult with a physician to determine gallstone risk and formation prior to beginning any treatment.
Tumeric
Turmeric is a broad-leaf shrub grown in India used in many curry dishes and known by its yellow color. Arthur Roberts, M.D. in "Nutraceuticals" writes turmeric use dates back to Ayurveda medicine origins as a complete body tonic.
Turmeric's active ingredient is curcumin and thought to be able to reduce inflammation. Curcumin is also said to improve circulation and digestive issues. Turmeric works because of the volatile oils and bitters and other compounds that stimulate bile and other digestive juices.
Turmeric is sold in pill form and available in 600mg doses, with an adult dose being three 600mg pills daily.
Although turmeric use is documented throughout hundreds of years, it is not a definitive treatment for gallstones. Consult a certified herbalist to determine the best dosage of turmeric, and with a physician to determine a gallstone diagnosis.
Peppermint
Peppermint cleanses the gallbladder and soothes muscles in the digestive tract. A native mint plant to Europe, peppermint is now used all around the world for several digestive ailments. Peppermint carminative properties aid digestion and is best taken orally.
Peppermint's use as a gallstone treatment is to reduce inflammation and as an anti-spasmodic.
Tea is a good way to ingest peppermint; however, the amount needed for relief of inflammation and muscle spasms is about 200mg three times daily. A pill with peppermint essential oil is a better way.
According to Holly Phaneuf, PhD., author of "Herbs Demystified," although many sources show peppermint increases bile production, equally as many sources show it might actually reduce bile.
Since no definitive sources agree, it is best to talk to a physician or certified herbalist to determine how peppermint may help relieve pain associated with gallstones.
References
- "55 Most Common Medicinal Herbs"; Heather Boon, BScPhm, PhD; 2009
- "Your Best Medicine"; Mark A. Goldstein, M.D. et al.; 2008
- "Herbs Demystified"; Holly Phaneuf, PhD.; 2005
- "Nutriceuticals: The Complete Encyclopedia of Supplements, Herbs"; Arthur Roberts, M.D, et al.; 2001
