Kidney stones are one of the diseases that sometimes a person can encounter randomly, and what was a normal day for him can suddenly become a day of pain. If you or someone you know has had the misfortune of experiencing a kidney stone in the past then you know how unbearable the pain is.
They are generally uncomfortable for the patients and therefore they should be treated, or their treatments prioritised, effectively. Although there have been diverse treatments, many are using natural remedies and one of the latest remedies that is making headlines is Berberis vulgaris or what is also known as barberry.
Now, let’s discover how this wonderful plant could help you deal with kidney stones without using any medications.
What is Berberis Vulgaris?
Barberry or Berberis vulgaris is a shrub that grows in the European, Asian, and the Middle Eastern regions. For several millennia, it has been considered as an effective treatment for many diseases owing to its high content of useful elements, especially berberine. Berberine is an active compound with a microbial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effect, so barberry is one of the most effective herbs that can be found in folk pharmacies.
In What Way Does Berberis Vulgaris Work in Treatment of Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones develop when there is excess of one or more minerals in urine which include calcium, oxalate and uric acids. Such minerals can solidify and make parts of the stone, which, if they are to pass through the urinary system, can cause severe pain.
Here’s how Berberis vulgaris comes into play:
- Diuretic Properties: The primary ability of Berberis vulgaris to help with the management of kidney stones is its diuretic abilities. Diuretics increase urine output, and therefore, the amount of stone forming substances in the urine is minimised. This may help to reduce the development of new stones and also address the issue of facilitating the passing of small stones.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Kidney stones are known to cause a lot of inflammation and friction within the urinary system. It has been discovered that berberine possesses anti-inflammatory effects, which will assist in the decrease of this inflammation, thereby minimising the pain and facilitating easy passage of the stones.
- Antioxidant Benefits: It pointed out that oxidative stress can harm the organs that are involved in filtration of blood and the urinary tract due to the presence of kidney stones. By acting as an antioxidant compound the actions of Berberine are able to guard the cells against this damage and thus regular kidney function.
- Alkalizing the Urine: There are some papers pointing to the fact that the Berberis vulgaris is carrying the ability to reduce the level of acidity of the urine. An increase in the pH of the urinary tract can also prevent certain forms of stones from forming, especially the uric acid types.
How to Use Berberis Vulgaris for Kidney Stone?
Barberry can be ingested in a number of ways, for example in capsule form, as tinctures, in the form of tea or extracts. Kidney stones treatment may imply the use of a tincture or an extract most beneficial because these forms are usually considered to be more potent. Here’s a general guide on how to use it:
- Tincture: The most utilised form is that of tincture with an approximate dose of 15 to 30 drops diluted in a little water and taken in several doses, two to three, throughout the day. Different products and medications may have different applications so it is advisable to check the label or consult a doctor.
- Capsules or Tablets: These are normally administered once or twice daily depending on the concentration of berberine.
- Tea: Even though not as powerful, consumption of barberry tea could also have some positives and is beneficial as it’s a means of keeping abreast of water intake, which is very important for the kidneys.
Precautions and Considerations
Although Berberis vulgaris is considered to be relatively safe for short-term use, some care should be taken to use it under the recommendation of a heath care provider especially if pregnant, breast feeding, or if taking other medications. Intake of high doses may cause stomach irritation or may interfere with some drugs like the anti-hypertensive or the anti-diabetic drugs.
Scientific Evidence
There are only a limited number of studies that have assessed the efficacy of Berberis vulgaris in the management of kidney stones, however, there is proof that it could facilitate the reduction of stone size of those already formed. In a study on the effects of Berberis vulgaris extract published in Urology, patients who were given the extract saw their kidney stones reduced in size after one month of treatment.
It is essential to emphasise that further investigation is required to comprehensively understand the mechanism of action and the long-term safety profile of Berberis vulgaris in the context of kidney stones. Prior to considering this or any other herbal treatment, it is prudent to seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
A Natural Approach to Relief
Integrating Berberis vulgaris into your daily regimen may serve as a natural and effective method for managing kidney stones. Its unique blend of diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant characteristics positions it as a viable option for individuals seeking alleviation from the discomfort associated with kidney stones. It is essential to approach any natural remedy with careful consideration and informed understanding. Always seek guidance from a healthcare professional prior to initiating any new treatment, particularly if you have pre-existing health issues or are currently taking other medications.
While kidney stones are a prevalent concern, adopting the appropriate strategies can enable you to manage them effectively and naturally. Berberis vulgaris may prove to be a valuable companion in your pursuit of comfort and relief, providing a gentle, plant-based alternative to address this distressing condition.
Conclusion
Berberis vulgaris has a long history of use as a treatment for various health issues, including kidney stones. Although the scientific data is limited, it may assist in reducing the size of existing kidney stones. Nevertheless, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before initiating any herbal supplement or treatment, particularly if one has pre-existing health conditions or is currently on medication.
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Refernce Link:-
https://www.pristyncare.com/blog/berberis-vulgaris-for-kidney_stones-pc0441/
https://www.hexahealth.com/blog/berberis-vulgaris-dosage-for-kidney-stone