Kidney stones are hard, stone-like formations that develop in the kidneys due to the accumulation of calcium oxalate, uric acid, or other cellular waste materials. These stones may form in the cortex or medulla of the kidney.
Types of Kidney Stones
Calcium Stones - Composed mainly of calcium oxalate.
Uric Acid Stones - Formed from hardened uric acid crystals.
Struvite Stones - Often develop after a urinary tract or kidney infection.
Cystine Stones - Hereditary in nature and made of amino acids.
Causes of Kidney Stones
Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Dehydration or low fluid intake, leads to concentrated urine.
Diets high in minerals or calcium, especially when kidney function is impaired.
Habitual urine retention.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
Pain in the abdomen, back, or side.
Urinary issues such as infection, blood, or pus in the urine.
Burning or painful urination.
Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin.
Nausea and vomiting.
Fever and chills.
Cloudy, discoloured, or foul-smelling urine.
Home Remedies for Kidney Stones
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out stones.
Mix 2 tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar with 1 teaspoon of honey in warm water. Consume a few times daily.
Add 2 teaspoons of dried nettle leaf to hot water, steep for 10 minutes, strain, and drink 2-3 cups daily.
Mix 1 teaspoon of basil (tulsi) juice with honey and take it every morning for 5-6 months.
Eat 2-3 slices of whole wheat bread daily to help reduce the risk of stone formation.
Boil 60g of kidney beans in 4 litres of water for 4-5 hours. Strain and cool. Drink 1 glass every 2 hours throughout the day for one week.
Boil 1 cup of horse gram in ½ litre of water until reduced to ⅕th. Strain and add 2 teaspoons of crushed pomegranate seeds. Consume once daily.
Mix 4 tablespoons each of lemon juice and olive oil. Drink it and follow with plenty of water. Repeat 2-3 times a day.
When to See a Doctor
Presence of blood in the urine.
Continuous or severe pain lasting for hours.
Pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting.
High fever with chills.
Diet and Lifestyle Guidelines for Kidney Stones
Avoid contaminated or unhygienic food and water.
Drink filtered or alkaline ionized water.
Limit intake of foods high in oxalates and purines such as red meat, poultry, fish, spinach, cabbage, chocolate, soy products, and cucumber.
Stay well-hydrated.
Don't hold in urine for extended periods.
For acute pain, take a sitz bath using hot water, and apply a hot compress above the navel area.
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