Holistic Treatment for Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are usually not a genetic disorder, but rather one based on dietary choices. Eating the right foods may encourage optimal kidney function as well as prevent stones from forming. For those who do suffer from kidney stones, there are natural holistic treatments to encourage the stones to pass through the body.

Diet

• Diet is an important factor in the prevention of kidney stones. Avoid eating processed or refined foods such as white bread and pasta, drinking alcohol or beverages that are carbonated, and eating more than the recommended amount of protein each day, which is 15 to 20 percent of your total consumed calories for the day. Limit the consumption of antacids such as Tums, since the calcium buildup may increase stone formation.

  Eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fish, grains and legumes. Eat foods high in fiber such as oat bran and flaxseed to keep the body digesting at optimal levels. Water is important to prevent kidney stones. The key to getting enough is to drink half the number of your total body weight in ounces of water, which helps dilute your urine in order to prevent stone buildup. When urine is highly concentrated, it becomes filled with crystals, which lead to the formation of stones.

Herbs

• Herbal remedies have long been used for a variety of medical ailments, including kidney stones. Some herbs help to relax the body in order to pass a formed stone with less pain, as well as acting as a diuretic to help with passing the stone. Crampbark is used to relax the muscles and work as an antispasmodic remedy for the kidney. Kava kava is a well-known herb used to relax individuals in many instances, including passing a stone. Khella is a popular remedy for kidney stones, since it also works as an antispasmodic and relaxes the ureter tissues, allowing for quicker passing of a painful stone.

Vitamins & Minerals

• Taking supplements regularly may help with the formation of kidney stones. Vitamins B6 and C are helpful in reducing urinary oxalate, which is one of the major components of kidney stone formations. Take 60 mg per day of Vitamin C to prevent stones, or choose 25 mg of Vitamin B6 each day.

  If you are lacking magnesium, the risk for kidney stones increases. Take a 500 mg supplement each day to prevent stone formations, or decrease the size of already formed stones for easier passage.