Kidney Stones

Kidney Stones

Most kidney stones are composed of calcium and some consist of uric acid or struvite. Stones form in the kidneys when an imbalance of water, calcium oxylate, uric acid and phosphate that is normally present in the urine. Kidney stones can also form when the PH balance of the urine is abnormal or when the kidneys normal protective mechanisms are over whelmed.
Kidney stones may also form for these reasons:
• Dehydration
• Sluggish or obstructed urine flow.
• Gout, Cushing’s disease and hyper-parathyroidism
• Metabolism problems
• Chemotherapy
• Specific drugs such as thyroid medication or aluminum salts
In some cases kidney stones can completely block the urine from the kidney. This can lead to infection and possible permanent kidney damage if not treated. Kidney stones require prompt medical attention. Herbal approaches to kidney stones can help relieve mild pain when there is no obstruction or infection present. If the pain from a kidney stone is mild and manageable you can try antispasmodic herbs to help relax the ureter.
Herbal remedies for kidney stones:
Yellow Dock: blood purifier that also contains anthraquinones. Use up to 5oo milligram capsules per day, or 20-40 drops of tincture two times a day. Do not use during pregnancy.
Aloe- contains anthraquinones which is the compound that helps prevent kidney stones. 1 teaspoon after meals.
Corn silk- relaxes the urinary tubes and reduces stone formation. 4-6cups of tea per day or 1 teaspoon of tincture four to five times a day.
Slippery Elm- contains high amounts of mucilage which eases irritation and helps body tissue heal. Up to 12 370 milligram capsules per day, or 2-3 cups of tea per day, or 10-30 drops of tincture per day
Marshmallow-helps sooth irritated urinary tissues. Up to six 400-500- milligram capsules per day or 1 cup of tea per day or 20-40 drops of tincture up to five times per day.
Khella-helps relax the muscles of the ureter and urinary tubules. 250-300milligrams of extract in divided doses.
Wild Yam- an antispasmodic but not sedative. Up to 400 milligram capsules per day or 1 teaspoon tincture up to five times a day.
Skullcap- antispasmotic. 1 cup of tea 4 times a day or1 teaspoon tincture four times a day.
Valerian- antispasmotic and strongly sedative herb that helps the ureter relax enough to allow a small stone to pass. 1 cup of tea every hour or 1 teaspoon tincture every hour. Do not use if regnant.
Kidney friendly foods rich in magnesium
• Dark green vegetables
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Leguemes
• Soy products
• Whole grains
• Avocados
• Dried apricots
Foods rich in Vitamin B6
• Egg yolks
• Fish
• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Sweet potatoes
• Cauliflower
• Avocados
Magnesium and vitamin B6 help reduce stone formation.

Http://www.sunshineandherb.com
http://www.facebook.com/sunshineandherb

http://www.twitter.com/sunshineandherb