Gallstones have numerous causes, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House. These include not enough bile salts in the gall bladder, too much cholesterol in the bile or poor functioning of the gall bladder, such as insufficient emptying. Gallstones can become stuck in the ducts and require immediate medical intervention. Symptoms of acute gall bladder problems include fever, pain, yellow eyes, clay colored stools, nausea and vomiting. For prevention of gallstones or to eliminate small gallstones, home remedies may be useful, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used in Indian and Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and is also used as a spice. The extract of the plant, called curcumin, can be used to aid liver and gall bladder function, and can help reduce gall stone formation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It suggests 300 mg taken three times a day in the extract form. Turmeric causes blood thinning, and those on blood thinners should advise their medical professional before adding turmeric to their diet.
Green Tea
The University of Maryland Medical Center comments that green tea can be used to treat gall bladder diseases, such as gallstones. The active ingredients in the green tea are the antioxidants. University of Maryland Medical Center advices using non-decaffeinated extract and taking 250 to 500 mg a day. Care needs to be taken when introducing large amounts of any herb to the diet, so consultation with a medical professional is advised.
Fiber
Adding fiber to the diet helps reduce gall stones, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fiber helps reduce cholesterol, one of the causes of gall stone build up. Food high in fiber are grains, nuts, seeds, legumes and vegetables, especially apples and potatoes. The National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine recommends 38 grams a day of fiber intake for men, and 25 g per day for women. Adding a baked potato to the diet is an easy way to add fiber and help reduce the risk of gall stone formation.
