Foods And Herbs That Dissolve Gallstones

Gallstones are small rock-like substances that grow inside the gallbladder and consist mostly of water, cholesterol, fats and other organic matter. The gallbladder holds and moves bile from the liver to the small intestine, which helps the body digest fat. Doctors aren't completely sure why gallstones form, but it might have something to do with high cholesterol levels in bile or slow emptying from the gallbladder. Although the research isn't conclusive as to which foods and herbs dissolve gallstones, some promising studies might lead to relief from symptoms. As with any changes to your diet, check with your doctor first.

Milk Thistle

Europeans have used milk thistle as a medicinal plant since the first century, with its leaves and roots consumed as a vegetable and its seeds roasted as a coffee substitute. Milk thistle, among many other medicinal uses, increases the production of bile and stimulates movement of bile from the gallbladder to the intestines. Some people report side effects of diarrhea and stomach upset, but according to a report released in 2000 by the Longwood Herbal Task Force, numerous clinical trials have shown the side effects of milk thistle to match those of a placebo.

Peppermint, Menthol, Pine and Eucalyptus Oils

Preliminary research with a small control group published by the "Postgraduate Medical Journal" in 1985 found that 42 percent of patients with gallstones located in the common bile duct achieved complete gallstone dissolution within four years of treatment after consistently taking a liquid capsule called Rowachol, which consists of pine, camphor, peppermint, eucalyptus and a few other lesser-known oils and mixed with olive oil. Talk to your doctor before taking Rowachol, as some of the ingredients might interfere with other medications.

Globe Artichoke

Globe artichokes are part of the thistle family and were used as far back as the Roman Empire to assist with multiple digestive problems, including gallstones. Artichokes provide numerous antioxidants, including rutin and vitamins B and C; eating them increases bile production, which might reduce gallstone symptoms. People with obstructed bile ducts should avoid eating artichokes for this same reason.

Brickellia

Brickellia, often mistaken for catnip in the wild, is a tall bushy plant native to the Southwestern United States. According to the website "Medicinal Plants of the Southwest," Brickellia grandifloria ramps up the production and flow of bile, forcing it to evacuate the gallbladder in a more timely manner. Collect Brickellia before it starts to bloom, and dry the leaves to make a tea. Use 1 tsp. of dried herb per cup of hot water. If you already suffer from bile duct blockages or large gallstone formations, do not use Brickellia, as it might further complicate gallstone removal.