Kidney stones are a common -- and often painful -- health problem that can affect people of all ages. The composition of kidney stones may vary. The Kidney Foundation of Canada states that 70 to 80 percent of kidney stones are comprised of calcium oxalate and that the remainder are made of uric acid or cystine. Before using gravel root to help treat kidney stones, speak with your doctor about the immediate and long-term health effects of herbal remedies.
Kidney Stones
Most kidney stones pass through your body undetected, notes the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, although certain signs and symptoms may indicate the need to visit a doctor as soon as possible, including severe back or flank pain, vomiting, a burning sensation during urination and blood in your urine. Factors that may contribute to kidney stone formation include dehydration, urinary tract blockage, urinary tract infections, certain prescription drugs and bed rest that lasts for several weeks or more.
Gravel Root
Gravel root, or Eupatorium purpureum and also called joe-pye weed, is a perennial plant that can grow to a maximum height of about five feet. This plant possesses pointed leaves and pink or purple florets. The flowers and root of the plant are used medicinally and contain several important phytochemicals, including resin, euparin and eupatorin. Gravel root may be consumed as a decoction or as a liquid extract. This herbal remedy has a moderately bitter and starchy taste.
Herb Actions
Gravel root has long been used as a natural remedy in treating kidney stones. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, herbal medicine expert and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," gravel root is a diuretic, increases the excretion of solid materials in your urine and has historically been used in treating kidney stones, chronic kidney and bladder problems, gout and other conditions that cause painful urination. The root of this plant is used in herbal preparations.
Warning
Kidney stones can cause serious health problems. Possible complications associated with kidney stones include kidney scarring, kidney dysfunction and obstruction of your ureter. A healthcare professional who has extensive training in botanical medicine can assess your condition and offer you the most accurate and relevant information about the benefits, risks, limitations and role of herbs in treating your health complaint. Certain herbs may cause undesired health effects. Herbs should always be used judiciously.
References
- Kidney Foundation of Canada: Kidney Stones
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I Need to Know About Kidney Stones
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
