Remedy for the Pain of Passing Sharp Edge Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can range from the size of a small speck of sand to the size of a dime or marble. Generally speaking, as long as the stone is smaller than the size of a pea, it can be passed on its own at home. Herbal treatments and other alternative remedies can help with the process of passing a kidney stone, while alleviating some of the associated pain.

Alternative Remedies

Encourage a kidney stone to pass by consuming large quantities of water. Drink eight to 10 glasses of water a day to dilute your urine and keep it clear. Consult your physician if you have heart or liver disease before increasing levels of fluids.

In addition to drinking plenty of water, try using hot compresses to ease the pain. Boil about two cups of water and add 2 tsps. of ground ginger. Saturate a soft flannel or cotton cloth in the water, wring out and place over the lower back. This action will help to counteract the pain you experience with kidney stone passage.

Hyssop and juniper essential oils can help relieve pain and discomfort associated with passing kidney stones. Simply add a few drops to a handkerchief and inhale deeply. Repeat as often as needed.

Herbal Options

There are several herbs that can be useful when passing a kidney stone. Dandelion and goldenrod both contain diuretic properties, and help to ease inflammation in the urinary tract. During an acute attack, drink tea made from either of these herbs until the stone has passed. These herbs work by increasing urine output resulting from improved blood circulation in the kidneys. This action will help to flush the stone out of your system faster. Make the tea by adding two teaspoons of the dried herb to one cup of boiling water and steeping for 15 minutes. Strain and drink.

Marshmallow and corn silk both contain a component called mucilage, which forms a gel-like substance in the urinary tract, adhering to the walls and repairing urinary tract tissue. When made into teas, the slimy texture of these herbs aids the mucous membranes.

Make your own corn silk tea by using organically grown corn. Remove the silk, and steep about one ounce of corn silk in one pint of water. Let stand and cool off until it thickens. Strain and drink one cup three times a day before meals.

Marshmallow root tea is more widely available than corn silk. Look for it in health food stores and follow dosing instructions carefully.

Both marshmallow and corn silk teas can be consumed on an ongoing basis to protect and soothe the urinary tract.

Gravel root is another herbal option that can help with passing a kidney stone. Available in tincture form, it can help dissolve existing stones, and relaxes the ureter, allowing for easier passage. Long-term use may be needed; it is best to consult with a trained herbalist or holistic physician prior to using this treatment.

Saw palmetto is commonly used to treat prostate problems, but can also be helpful in dealing with kidney stones. Saw palmetto relaxes the ureter, making it easier to pass kidney stones. It has a general tonic effect on the whole urinary tract. Take two 160 mg capsules of extract daily for as long as necessary.

If you are experiencing severe pain due to a kidney stone, see your physician immediately. You may require hospitalization.