Guide to Exploring Ayurvedic Remedies for Gallstones

"It all started a few months ago. I started experiencing unbearable pain in my upper abdomen. At first, I ignored it, thinking it was just stress from my demanding job. But the pain persisted, and I knew I needed help. After a series of tests, my doctor diagnosed me with gallbladder stones. I was told surgery was the conventional treatment, but the thought of going under the knife terrified me. 

I wanted to explore other options, and that's when I discovered Nirva Ayurveda. I met with their Ayurvedic practitioner, who took the time to understand my medical history and lifestyle. They created a personalised treatment plan for me, which included dietary changes, herbal supplements, and therapeutic yoga. I followed their guidance diligently. I adopted a diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and Ayurvedic spices. 

The herbal remedies they prescribed helped dissolve my gallstones, and the yoga sessions brought me peace and strength. Over time, I began to feel relief from the constant pain. I had more energy and could enjoy life again. 

Follow-up tests showed that my gallstones were shrinking, and my gallbladder was functioning better. Nirva gave me a new lease on life without surgery. It was a holistic and gentle approach to healing. I want to share my story to let others know that there are alternatives to surgery, even in a busy world like ours. Ayurveda worked for me, and I cured my gallstones naturally. I'm grateful for the second chance at health and happiness it gave me."  

• Nirva Client, UK                                                                

Did you know? 

Gallstone risk is higher in females, especially before menopause, and individuals aged 40 and above. The prevalence of this condition is higher among individuals of European or American Indigenous descent than other ethnicities.

Let us learn more about gallbladder stones, look into home remedies for them, and discuss their effectiveness.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Gallstones

Over time, gallstones can take a toll on your daily life. You might find yourself avoiding certain foods, fearing the pain they could trigger. And it's not just about food; it can affect your overall well-being, making you feel tired and drained. 

But here's the thing – you don't have to let gallstones be the director of your life's movie. Holistic approaches, like Ayurvedic and home remedies for gallbladder pain, can help you regain control and find relief. Read on to find out more about it. 

How can Ayurveda help to manage gallstones? Ayurveda also advises surgical treatment for big, old and extensive gallstones. However, the newly formed and small-sized gallstones can be cured with ayurvedic medicines. The age-old science also provides dietary and lifestyle advice for surgically curing gallstones. It will help to ease the symptoms. 

The science of Ayurveda considers gallstone as pittashmari ( the stone formation due to the accumulation of pitta) and has mentioned very effective treatment protocols to cure it. 

After examining your gallstone's size and medical history, your Ayurvedic practitioner can curate an individual treatment plan just for you. The general treatment protocols include:

• Induced purgation therapy 
• Fasting
• Strict and light diet
• Therapeutic yoga

In addition to these treatment procedures, Ayurveda has some immensely effective medicinal formulations specifically mentioned for gallstones or pittashmari. These medications are proven to dissolve gallstones naturally.

Why Should You Include Ayurvedic Herbs for Gallstones?

Cholagogues and choleretics - two very unfamiliar words, right? The herbs with these properties are the key players in curing gallstones naturally. What exactly are these properties? Let's have a look. 

Cholagogues are the substances that stimulate the gallbladder contraction. This property helps the gallbladder empty the bile by contracting; thus, no residual bile is left to solidify and form gallstones. Meanwhile, Choleretics helps the liver to produce healthy bile and thus promotes fat digestion. 

Herbs with these two properties and herbs with anti-pitta action (as gallstones are caused by excessive pitta energy) are employed to manage gallstones. The following are the most commonly used herbs or drugs to treat gallstones:

• Tumeric
• Aloe vera
• Black pepper
• Dandelion
• Milk Thistle
• Artichoke
• Rock salt

How to Use Ayurvedic Herbs?

Turmeric

The herb is the easiest and most effective way to manage gallstones. Dissolving a pinch of turmeric in warm milk after dinner is highly recommended to aid digestion and expel gallstones effectively.

Black Pepper

When consumed with warm water before food, black pepper powder helps reduce gallstones and lowers cholesterol levels.

Dandelion

This plant's leaves can increase the bile flow. You can prepare the dandelion tea by steeping the dandelion plant's leaves in boiling water. Consuming this three times a day can ease the gallstone treatment.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle consists of a compound called silymarin that helps to cure gallstones. Drinking tea made using milk thistle extract and water can be used regularly.

Aloe Vera

This magical herb can dissolve gallstones. Drink Aloe vera juice regularly to manage gallstone issues.

Artichoke

Artichoke extract shows promising effects on treating gallstones. Consume water mixed with artichoke extract three times daily to overcome gallstones naturally.

Rock Salt

Ayurveda says rocksalt is a potent medicine that boosts bile flow and improves digestion. To benefit from this natural remedy:

1. Mix a tablespoon of rock salt into a glass of warm water and have it before breakfast on an empty stomach.
    
2. After drinking, lie down on your right side for about 45 minutes.
    
3. Repeat this process once or twice a week for the best results.

How to Plan Your Diet?

Whether you choose conventional surgical treatment or alternate treatment options, following the appropriate diet matters the most. A good and healthy diet can do wonders for a person with gallstones.

Foods to Include

A diet plan for someone with gallstones should focus on reducing the risk of triggering painful gallbladder symptoms while maintaining good overall nutrition. 

However, it's crucial to consult your healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for a personalised plan tailored to your specific needs. Here's a general guideline: 

High-Fibre Foods

Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fibre can help with digestion and may reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Healthy Fats

Opt for sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish like salmon. Limit saturated and trans fats in fried foods and processed snacks. 

Lean Proteins

Choose lean protein sources, such as poultry, fish, lean cuts of meat, and plant-based proteins like tofu and beans. Avoid fried or fatty meats.

Low-Fat Dairy

Select low-fat or fat-free dairy products like yoghurt and milk for those who are tolerant of milk products.

Water

Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration can contribute to gallstone formation. 

Foods to Limit or Avoid

High-Fat Foods

Minimise or avoid fried foods, fatty cuts of meat, butter, cream, and high-fat dairy products.

Processed Foods

Reduce your intake of processed foods, which often contain unhealthy fats and additives. 

Refined Sugars

Limit sugar-sweetened beverages, candies, and sugary snacks.

Rapid Weight Loss Diets

Avoid crash diets or diets that promote rapid weight loss, as they can increase the risk of gallstone formation. 

Large Meals

Instead of three large meals, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the workload on your gallbladder. 

These are general guidelines, and individual dietary needs may vary. Always consult a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to curate a diet plan that suits your specific situation and preferences. At Nirva, we provide you with a diet plan made for you. We can provide tailored advice and monitor your progress.

To Conclude

Surgery for gallstones removal does not have to be an option. But as discussed, if your gallstones are extensive and significant, Ayurveda advises surgery. In most cases, gallstones can be managed effectively by Ayurveda medications and treatment. Never hesitate to consult an Ayurveda practitioner. Avoid taking treatment into your own hands; Always treat it with the help of an expert opinion. Combining Ayurveda and Therapeutic Yoga's powers, you can always win this battle over gallstones.