The gallbladder's function is to store bile made by the liver and to release it when the digestive system needs it. Gallstones occur when compounds in the bile start to form hard deposits. Gallstones can range in size, starting out as a grain of sand and ending up being as large as a golf ball. If a gallstone gets too large, it can obstruct the bile ducts, which can cause serious problems. Treatment is usually surgery, but if gallstones are caught early enough, herbal remedies may help dissolve them. Consult your doctor before trying to prevent, treat or cure any condition with herbs.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle, medicinally known as Silybum marianum, is native to the Mediterranean region. This herb has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for liver and gallbladder issues. It appears that the active compound in milk thistle, known as silymarin, can protect the liver from toxins that can cause liver damage. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, silymarin has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has the ability to help the liver repair itself by growing new cells. The center recommends taking 80 to 160 mg of milk thistle two to three times per day if you have gallstones or other liver and gallbladder disorders. Minor side effects that may occur while using milk thistle include stomach upset, abdominal cramping and diarrhea. Before using milk thistle for treating gallstones, it is imperative to consult a doctor.
Globe Artichoke
Globe artichoke, or Cynara scolymus, is also found in the Mediterranean region and throughout South America. This herb contains many active ingredients, including vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 and C; tannin; rutin; sesquiterpenes lactones; and cynarin. Cynarin, states the Association for the Advancement of Restorative Medicine, is the compound that actively stimulates the bile and liver function, which may be effective in dissolving gallstones and treating gallbladder disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends using 250 to 500 mg of globe artichoke two to three times per day for gallstone and gallbladder support. Discuss the use of globe artichoke for gallstones with a physician before using.
Peppermint
Peppermint, or Mentha piperita, in the form of an oil mixed with other compounds, may be helpful in dissolving gallstones, states the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Peppermint, by itself, has carminitive and anti-spasmodic properties and can help in alleviating gallbladder or bile duct spasms. However, using the oil alone to treat gallstones may do more harm than good. Considering peppermint oil can cause burning and gastrointestinal issues. It is imperative that those with chronic heartburn, severe liver damage, inflammation of the gallbladder or obstruction of bile ducts consult a doctor before using peppermint or any formula containing it to treat gallstones.
Barberry
Barberry, botanically known as Berberis vulgaris, is an herb that is found throughout Europe and North Africa. It contains the alkaloids berbamine and berberine, which contain anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, purgative and antibacterial properties. According to "The Complete Guide to Natural Healing," barberry is used to treat liver and gallbladder conditions, such as gallstones and jaundice. However, before using this herb, consult a medical professional. Barberry may cause nausea, headaches, low blood pressure and diarrhea. It also may cause uterine contractions, so avoid taking barberry while pregnant.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gallbladder Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Milk Thistle
- UPMC: Gallstones
- Association for the Advancement of Restorative Medicine: Globe Artichoke (Cynara Scolymus L.)
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation: Peppermint
- The Complete Guide to Natural Healing: Barberry
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