Herbal Treatment For Renal Calculi

Renal calculi, or kidney stones, are a common health problem in the United States. They are solid masses made up of small crystals that develop when your urine contains excessive amounts of certain substances. It is not uncommon for multiple stones to be in your kidney or ureter simultaneously. Before you take herbs to treat your kidney stones, seek the counsel of your physician to better understand the potential risks and benefits that accompany herbal therapies.

Renal Calculi

According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, renal calculi can cause extreme flank and abdominal pain and are one of the most common conditions of your urinary tract. Renal calculi often comprise various chemicals and substances, including calcium, oxalate and phosphate. The exact cause of renal calculi is unknown. However, it is believed that the cause of kidney stones is multifactorial. Certain foods, a family history of stones, urinary tract infections and certain kidney disorders may all contribute to renal calculi formation.

Herbal Approach

The herbal approach to renal calculi involves either prevention or treatment of stones. According to naturopath Dr. Sharol Tilgner, an expert in botanical medicine and the author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," herbs that may help treat acute renal calculi include wild yam, lobelia, khella and valerian. These herbs reduce the pain and spasms associated with renal calculi. Other herbs, including hydrangea, gravel root, nettle and goldenrod, are known for their ability to help prevent renal calculi.

A Commonly Used Herb

Lobelia is a commonly used herb in treating renal calculi. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that Indian tobacco, as lobelia is often called, has long been used as an herbal remedy by Native Americans. Lobelia is a stimulant, diaphoretic and expectorant and has antispasmodic action. Lobelia helps relax muscle spasms in your ureter, or the tube that drains materials from your kidneys to your bladder. Lobelia is a plant indigenous to the tropical and warm temperate parts of the planet.

Precautions

When you use any substance, including herbs, to help treat a medical condition, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure you experience as few adverse health effects as possible. Not all herbs are suitable for treating renal calculi, and some herbs may cause unwanted side effects if taken for prolonged periods of time. A qualified health care professional -- especially a health care provider trained in the intricacies of botanical medicine -- can provide you with detailed information about appropriate herbs and any side effects you might experience.