Home Remedies For Gallstones

Gallstones occur as the result of calculus forming and depositing in the gallbladder, causing residue as small as a grain of sand and increasing in size to that of a golf ball or larger. Gallbladder attacks are extremely painful. Anecdotal evidence shows that treating gallstone colic with home remedies may relieve symptoms and help stones to pass. If symptoms persist or worsen during or after using home remedies or herbs, consult a health practitioner for medical assistance.

Home Remedies

Gallbladder attacks may cause bloating, belching and intense pain on the right side of the abdomen extending to the right shoulder and the back, according to the Earth Clinic. The clinic suggests drinking a large glass of water at the onset of an attack, which helps regulate the flow of bile in the gallbladder. In addition, consuming bitter liquids, such as coffee or Swedish bitters, may reduce the incidence of gallbladder attacks. The remedy involves taking a dose of magnesium followed by drinking something bitter.

Columbia University's internet health service, "Go Ask Alice" mentions that gallstones sometimes cause constipation as a concomitant symptom to gallbladder colic. Preventing constipation is the way to stop serious blockages of the colon. Consume lots of fiber in the form of foods or supplements and drink at least eight glasses of water daily.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic remedies may help reduce gallbladder colic and remove gallstones. Colocynthis is useful for treating biliary colic with severe cramping pain in the abdomen, Margaret Tyler says in her book, "Homeopathic Drug Pictures." The remedy helps relieve pain when the patient applies pressure to the abdomen or bends double. The person needing colocynthis may be angry during or before a gallbladder attack. The remedy is available at health food stores and from online pharmacies. A qualified homeopath or other health practitioner should be consulted before using homeopathic remedies.

Herbs

Herbs may provide relief from gallstones during a gallbladder attack, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Milk thistle is a well-known herb among herbalists and other natural health practitioners for the treatment of gallbladder and liver disease. It acts as a detoxifier for the liver and promotes increased flow of bile. It can also be used to detoxify the gallbladder and offer overall gallbladder support.

Turmeric acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps reduce pain during a gallbladder attack, according to UMMC. The herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries and has antioxidant properties. People taking blood-thinning medications should seek medical advice if they want to take turmeric, which has blood-thinning properties.