Does Apple Cider Vinegar Really Work On Kidney Stones?

Despite the fact that apple cider vinegar is recommended as a home remedy for many health conditions, there isn't medical evidence to verify many of these claims. For instance, drinking vinegar won't get rid of kidney stones. If you think you may have kidney stones, it's best to see a doctor right away for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan.

What Are Kidney Stones?

According to MayoClinic.com, kidney stones are hard objects made of crystals that form from minerals in the urine. Typically, dehydration or having concentrated urine contributes to the development of kidney stones. The most common symptoms include severe pain in the back and sides, bloody urine, nausea and vomiting.

Role of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic. However, once it enters your body, it turns alkaline. According to the book, "Alkalinize or Die" by Thomas Baroody, having slightly less acidic urine can prevent the development of kidney stones, since it creates an environment where the crystals that comprise the stones won't clump together.

Prevention Not Treatment

Apple cider vinegar may work as a preventative for kidney stones, but it won't treat or dissolve them if you already have them. One suggested preventative remedy for kidney stones is to drink a mixture of two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and one cup of water before meals, according to "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies" by Joe Graedon, M.S., et al. If you exhibit the symptoms of kidney stones, drinking vinegar won't help. Instead, you should see a doctor. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, signs that you should see a doctor immediately include vomiting, blood in the urine, fever, difficulty urinating and painful urination.

Caution

Since apple cider vinegar breaks up crystals in the urine, it may aggravate gout symptoms in those that have the condition. According to Baroody, drinking vinegar may cause a flare of gout symptoms as the uric acid crystals dissolve in the joints. See a doctor before adding apple cider vinegar to your diet as a supplement, even for preventative reasons.