Usually, gallstones do not cause pain or show symptoms; hence, they are sometimes called ‘silent.’ But, if they start blocking the bile duct, the patient undergoes severe pain. Gallstones occur in many sizes, from the size of a grain to a golf ball.
Large gallstones can only be removed by surgery or shockwave therapy. You can use several natural remedies for smaller ones if you don’t want to go for medication or surgery. First, let’s understand what gallstones are and how they are formed.
What Are Gallstones?
Your digestive system uses bile to digest and absorb fats and vitamins. This bile is made by the liver and stored in the gallbladder- a pear-shaped organ below the liver. The gallbladder then contracts and releases bile in the small intestine.
Bile contains several components, including cholesterol and bilirubin, which may crystallize and form gallstones. There are two types of gallstones: Cholesterol gallstones and pigment gallstones.
- Cholesterol gallstones – can be formed when the cholesterol level surpasses what can be dissolved by bile salts. Cholesterol gallstones are the most commonly occurring gallstones. They also occur if the gallbladder does not contract properly to release the bile.
- Pigment gallstones – These are composed of calcium salts and excess bilirubin (a pigment formed due to RBCs breakdown). These account for 15% of total gallstone cases and are usually caused by an underlying condition, such as liver disease, anemia, or bile duct infection.
When gallstones block the bile duct, they can cause sharp pain in the upper abdomen, which may radiate to your back and shoulder blades. They also cause nausea, vomiting, gray stool, and diarrhea.
5 Natural Remedies To Dissolve Gallstones On Their Own
Here are a few remedies you can do at home to get rid of gallstones.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a well-known health staple. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in ample amounts, offering many health benefits. Sources say turmeric increases the solubility of bile; hence cholesterol is readily dissolved by bile salts. It prevents the crystallization of excess cholesterol into gallstones.
How To Use?
Take half a teaspoon of turmeric and honey and mix them. Eat the mixture daily to ensure a healthy gallbladder.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
There is a long list of ACV benefits; it improves digestion, supports weight loss, controls blood sugar, and lowers cholesterol levels.
But does apple cider vinegar help get rid of gallstones? Yes, it helps. While there is no concrete scientific research on the matter, an anecdotal account from 1999 supports the claim. A lady, who used apple cider vinegar for seven days, passed her gallstones on the 8th.
Moreover, apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps subside the pain and inflammation caused by gallstones.
How To Use?
Dilute 1-2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it daily. Never use ACV without diluting first, as it may damage your teeth’ enamel due to its acidity.
- Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice contains a high amount of dietary fiber that keeps cholesterol levels low and prevents the formation of cholesterol gallstones. It also contains antioxidants that protect the liver and gallbladder from oxidative damage. Moreover, cranberry juice is acidic; thus, it prompts more bile to flow through the system, preventing its accumulation and crystallization.
How To Use?
Drink a glass of cranberry juice daily for maximum benefit. You can dilute it a bit if it feels too acidic.
- Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is an ancient remedy used to stimulate the liver and gallbladder. It contains the compound’ silymarin,’ which treats gallbladder disorders. However, there is no extensive research on the effects of milk thistle on gallstones.
How to Use?
Milk thistle is available as a supplement in capsule or tablet form. You can also use tonic or milk thistle tea. For this, you need the following:
- Milk thistle fruit – 1 teaspoon crushed
- Water – 1 cup
Boil water and add crushed milk thistle fruit into it. Stir the mixture for 15 minutes, strain, and cool down. Have this tea three to four times a day.
Safety Note!
Milk thistle reduces blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. You can be allergic to milk thistle as well. So, consult your doctor before using.
- Castor oil
Castor oil contains anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It can reduce swelling and pain caused by stones. However, there is no scientific evidence of castor oil treating gallstones.
How To Use?
Castor oil packs are a well-known remedy for gallstone pain. To make the pack, soak a cloth in warm castor oil and place it on the right abdomen where your gallbladder and liver are. Hold the pack with a towel or plastic wrap and leave it for 40-60 minutes. You can also place a heat compress over the pack.
Remember!
While quite a few natural remedies are present for treating gallstones, they are not scientifically backed. Be cautious in using any treatment yourself, and consult your doctor first.
