Kidney stones are one of the most common health conditions of urinary tract affecting both men and women. This is also known as urinary tract stone disease. It is a mass of tiny crystals that forms inside your kidney. Various terms such as nephrolithiasis, renal calculi, kidney stone, etc. are used to address the same condition. There are various factors that could lead to this condition, and genetics play an important role. The condition could be present in the family lineage and pass on to different generations.

In Ayurveda, kidney stones are given the name ‘Ashmari. This Sanskrit term is a combination of two words: ‘Ashma ‘(stone) and ‘Ari’ (enemy). This term was adopted because this disease gives severe pain, as described by the enemy.

Causative Factors

Here are some general causative factors of Kidney stones:-

• Genetic Factors
• Metabolism
• Lifestyle
• Intake of incompatible foods (Viruddhahara)
• Body toxicity
• Crystallisation of the chemicals and mineral deposit
• Urinary tract infection
• Blockage in the urinary tract
• Over dosage of vitamin D
• Mineral imbalance
• Dehydration or Diarrhoea
• Overconsumption of animal protein
• Insufficient intake of fibre and fluids
• Anxiety and stress
• High blood pressure
• People with gout

Symptoms

Patient suffering from Kidney stones may experience the following symptoms:

• Uncontrollable urge to urinate
• Urine turns brown or red due to the presence of blood
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Severe pain in the urethra
• Bleeding in the urinary tract
• Fever with chills
• Burning sensation during urination
• Pain while doing physically engaging tasks
• Discontinuity of the urinary stream

Ayurveda’s Take on Kidney Stones

According to Ayurveda, when there’s an imbalance in the Vata Dosha levels, the body’s Kapha composition may dry out. This may lead to kidney stones.

Ayurveda takes a holistic approach in managing and treating kidney stones. Here are some of the most effective kidney stone management treatments we provide that mainly work on the root cause of the disease.

Body Purification Methods

Different ayurvedic methods like Detox Panchakarma therapies are adopted to purify the body. Some of the common used techniques are:

• Swedana – is the process of herbal steaming that makes the patient sweat a lot. This helps in expelling body toxins through sweat.
• Snehana (Mild Oleation) – This is a medicated oil treatment where certain medicines are administered internally to break down and flushing out the kidney stones.
• Vasti or Ayurvedic enema. This is divided into three types:
• Anuvsana Vasti: It is a type of anal administration of herbal oils. This provides nourishment to the system and helps in cleansing.
• Niruha Vasti is an enema that is basically a non-oil-based herbal formulation. This helps in the expulsion of toxins.
• Uttar Vasti, where herbal formulations are administered through the urethra
• Virechana is a form of medicated purgation. This eliminates any blocks in the urinary pathways. This further helps in alleviating Pitta symptoms.

Diet

By limiting the intake of certain foods, the risk of kidney stones can be reduced.

• Food containing high amounts of oxalate, such as Spinach, almonds, peanuts, tree nuts, hazelnuts, okra, potato fries, soybeans, and tofu, sweet potatoes, beets, cereals, beetroot, and bran flakes are rich in oxalate.
• Chocolates and products containing cocoa
• Berries: strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry
• Animal proteins such as beef, eggs, pork, mutton, fish, cheese,
• Processed foods that are high in salt and added sugars as they can cause dehydration.
• Junk food that has lots of salt or sodium
• Vitamin C-containing foods like kiwi, broccoli, tomatoes, red pepper, papaya, and kale
• Caffeinated and carbonated beverages like tea, especially black tea, coffee, cola drinks, etc.
• Calcium supplements

Now let us have a look at some of the beneficial foods that help in effectively managing kidney stones.

• Coconut water is rich in potassium, which prevents kidney stone formation.
• Fresh pomegranate juice detoxifies the entire urinary system.
• Barley water is an excellent option as it facilitates the expulsion of kidney stones.
• Lemon juice contains citrate, which helps break down kidney stones and passes it through the urine.
• Banana stem is another miracle food loaded with potassium, magnesium, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Yoga and pranayama 

By practicing certain Yoga and pranayama techniques are seen very beneficial in managing kidney stone

Takeaway

• Ensure maximum hydration. Drink up to 14 cups a day.
• Drink lemonade, as it decreases stone formation.
• Follow a low sodium diet.
• Watch out for the oxalate and protein levels in your diet.
• Get physically active.

Kidney stones are a common problem, and they can be tough if not treated on time. With Ayurveda, you can effectively manage kidney stones. If you’re looking for the best ayurveda doctor in Melbourne that can help you treat kidney stones, then reach us.  At Ayurclinic, our dedicated team of ayurvedic practitioners will give you valuable insights on treating kidney stones and alleviating the root cause of any chronic problem.

Book your consultation with us and take your wellness journey to the next level.