How to Help Pass Kidney Stones
Most kidney stones form as a result of chemicals that are deposited in the kidneys and not passed from the body through urination. Crystals form and attach themselves to the wall of the kidney especially when urine is highly acidic and concentrated, according to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh Renal Unit.
Most kidney stones form as a result of chemicals that are deposited in the kidneys and not passed from the body through urination. Crystals form and attach themselves to the wall of the kidney especially when urine is highly acidic and concentrated, according to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh Renal Unit. Kidney stones may be made from several different chemicals such as calcium oxalate, uric acid and struvite crystals. A variety of natural products may be helpful in dissolving and passing kidney stones; however, contact your health practitioner before using any new treatments.
Step 1
Use apple cider vinegar to help urine become more alkaline, which may help kidney stones to dissolve, suggests "The pH Miracle." Reducing the acidity of the urine may help prevent stones from forming.
Step 2
Mix 1 to 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar with 8 oz. water and drink twice a day during an attack to help the stones pass. Drink one glass of this mixture daily thereafter to prevent additional kidney stones from forming.
Step 3
Drink adequate water regularly, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center. The average adult weighing 150 lbs. needs six to eight glasses of water daily, or 1/2 oz. water per pound of body weight. Staying well hydrated keeps the urine dilute and may prevent the formation of kidney stones. In addition, when the urine is dilute it helps dissolve certain stones more easily.
Step 4
Drink cranberry juice to help kidney stones pass. According to the British Journal of Urology, consuming cranberries and cranberry juice is an effective method of protecting the kidneys from the formation of oxalate kidney stones and helping existing stones to dissolve.
Step 5
Mix one cup whole, unsweetened cranberry juice with three cups fresh water and drink throughout the day. Continue to drink cranberry juice daily to maintain healthy kidneys.
Step 6
Take the homeopathic remedy, Berberis vulgaris to help pass kidney stones. According to the "Materia Medica and Repertory," Berberis may be aid the body in passing kidney stones and preventing the formation of new ones. This remedy is indicated for sharp pains in the back in the region of the kidneys that radiate into the groin and up to the shoulders. Berberis may also be extremely helpful in dissolving urate stones, which are made from uric acid crystals. This remedy is available over-the-counter at health food stores and from online homeopathic pharmacies. Consult with a health practitioner or a homeopath before using Berberis to ensure it is the properly indicated remedy for your condition.
Tip
The above treatments can all be used concurrently; however, do not use them all at the same time, spacing treatments throughout the day.
Only use Berberis under the supervision of your health practitioner.
warning
If you are in the midst of a severe acute attack from kidney stones, apple cider vinegar may aggravate your condition. If pains increase after drinking the vinegar, call your health practitioner.