Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that consist of excess calcium and uric acid. They can vary in size from extremely small to very large and are painful, especially when being passed out of the body. Kidney stones occur when the minerals and salts in urine are imbalanced, generally due to an improper diet. Treating kidney stones with herbs is one of the least invasive methods, with proven positive results.
Herbs as Natural Remedies
Many herbs help with the pain of kidney stones, reduce the bleeding they cause, and help to dissolve them so they can leave your body easily. Because herbs don't create negative side effects, they're an excellent choice when treating kidney stones. Teas should be taken along with two to three liters of water a day to flush out excess salts and minerals and clean the kidneys.
Effective Herbs for Kidney Stone Relief
Goldenrod is one of the official remedies taken in Germany, according to the research experts at MotherNature.com.
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is an excellent diuretic with antiseptic properties that assist the urinary tract.
Cleavers (Galium aparine) has been used for centuries to treat congestive kidney disorders such as stones and urinary infections.
Khella (Ammi visnagi) has also been used for centuries to treat kidney stones. Scientific research shows that it functions as an antispasmodic, helping to relax kidney tissue, which makes it easier to pass small stones.
Hydrangea or Seven Barks (Hydrangea aborescens) is effective in calming the urinary tract, allowing stones to pass easily.
Stone root (Collinsonia canadensis) is a powerful diuretic that is used to prevent and treat kidney stones.
Gravel root (Eupatorium purpureum) is a traditional herb used to treat stones.
Other herbs with effective properties are horsetail, agrimony, yarrow, Shepherd's Purse, St. John's Wort, nettles, cramp bark, wild yam root, Joe Pye weed and kava kava. These herbs help to sooth the urinary tract while providing diuretic action.
Making Your Tea
There are many kidney flush teas on the market that can easily be found in health food stores. If you want to make your own tea, select one or make a combination from the list above. Measure out a large spoonful if you're using one herb or large pinches of each herb if creating a mixture. Boil a pot of water and then let the tea steep for approximately 15 minutes. If you're using herbs that include stalks and hard pieces, add them to the water while it's boiling. Any leftover tea can be refrigerated.
Kidney Stone Tea Recipe
1 tsp. Wild Yam Root
2 tsp. Hydrangea Root
1 tsp. Cramp Bark
1 1/2 quarts water
1 tsp. Joe Pye Weed
1/2 tsp. Corn Silk, Yarrow Leaf, Plantain Leaf
Add the wild yam, hydrangea and cramp bark to water in a large teapot or sauce pan. Bring it to a boil and then simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the other herbs. Let it steep for at least 20 minutes. Strain the mix and keep it refrigerated. Drink 3 to 4 cups daily.
