Gallstones are small “stones” or solid pieces of matter, that are found in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ with the shape of a “sac”, that has the main role of storing bile made by the liver.

What are Gallstones?

Gallstones also known as cholelithiasis, are made up of calcium deposits, cholesterol particles and other substances that are found in bile. These can vary in terms of shape, size, density, composition and severity of symptoms. But, for the most part, they are all caused by the same things and treated very similarly.

Gallstones are formed when calcium, cholesterol and other particles bind to each other and become lodged in the gallbladder. These can cause pain and other problems, including back pain and indigestion. Normally, the gallbladder only stores liquid material, therefore, when solid stones accumulate it can become noticeable and serious in terms of symptoms.

natural remedy for gallstone
natural remedy for gallstone / photo credit: alternativeresourcesdirectory

Also, gallstones can vary in terms of size, some softer, small, big and denser gallstones that expand to almost the whole size of the gallbladder. When compared to kidney stones, gallstones are usually softer. This is because they are made of mostly cholesterol, which is not solid.

Home Remedies for Gallstones:

1. Artichoke

Artichoke has been reported to be beneficial for gallbladder function. It helps in stimulating bile and is also beneficial for the liver. However, no studies have been conducted on the effect of artichoke on the treatment of gallstones.

Artichoke can be pickled, steamed, or grilled. There is no problem or issue in consuming artichoke, if you are able to tolerate it. Artichoke in supplement or pill form should only be taken after you consult your doctor.

2. Apple Juice

Some individuals use apple juice in treating gallstones. This is because they believe apple juice may help soften gallstones and can help you pass the stones.

This claim was published in a letter in 1999, which detailed an account of a woman successfully passing her gallstones with the use of apple juice. But, there are no scientific studies that support this claim.

Drinking plenty of fruit juice may not be healthy for you if you have hypoglycemia, diabetes, stomach ulcers, and other conditions.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar can prevent the liver from making cholesterol that is responsible for forming the most common type of gallstones. Also, it plays an important role in dissolving gallstones and easing pain.

How to:
1. Combine 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of apple juice.
2. Drink it when you have a gallstone attack. This will help ease the pain in 15 minutes.
3. You can add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, to a glass of warm water. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.

Doing this regularly for weeks can help dissolve gallstones and prevent pain.

4. Castor Oil

Castor oil contains many healing and medicinal properties that can help reduce and minimize the number of gallstones. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in neutralizing inflammation and reducing pain. Also, castor oil have a positive effect on your lymphatic and immune systems.

How to:
1. Warm 1 cup of pure, cold-pressed castor oil using a pan.
2. Using the warm oil, soak a piece of cheesecloth.
3. Squeeze out the excess oil.
4. Place the wet cheesecloth over the right side of your stomach where your gallbladder is located.
5. Cover the cheesecloth using a plastic sheet.
6. Place a hot water bag on the plastic sheet for about 30-60 minutes.

Do this treatment at least 3x a week, or until you recover completely.

5. Yoga

One study found yoga to help in improving lipid profile in individuals with diabetes. In another study, researchers studied people with cholesterol gallstones and reported that individuals with these types of gallstones were much more likely to have abnormal lipid profiles. The researchers were unable to find a link between the presence of gallstones and these abnormal levels, however.

While yoga may help in relieving some of the symptoms linked with gallstones, there is no scientific evidence to support the use of yoga for gallstones treatment.

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