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1000+ verified doctorsKidney stone 12mm size - #3432
I just found out from an ultrasound that I have a kidney stone 12mm in size, and it’s been so painful I can barely stand it some days. The doctor suggested surgery, but I’m really scared of going under the knife. I want to know if there’s an Ayurvedic way to dissolve or shrink a kidney stone of 12mm size naturally. I’ve heard that some herbs like gokshura and punarnava are helpful for kidney stones, but is it realistic to expect results with a stone this big? Also, how should I take these herbs – as a tea, powder, or some other form? I’m drinking a lot of water already, but I don’t see much improvement yet. The pain comes and goes, but it’s mostly on my lower back and sometimes spreads to my abdomen. Is there any Ayurvedic oil or massage that can help with the pain while trying to treat the stone? Lastly, how long does it usually take for an Ayurvedic remedy to work on a kidney stone of 12mm size? Should I combine it with something like yoga, or are there specific exercises to avoid? If anyone has had success treating a stone this size without surgery, I’d love to hear your story.
Doctors' responses
I completely understand your concerns, and it’s great that you’re exploring Ayurvedic options to support your kidney health. While surgery is sometimes necessary for larger stones like a 12mm kidney stone, Ayurvedic medicine offers natural therapies that can help in certain cases, especially if the stone isn’t causing severe obstruction or complications. That said, the size of the stone does matter, and it’s important to manage expectations and combine Ayurvedic remedies with other approaches as needed.
Herbs like gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) and punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) are indeed commonly used in Ayurveda to support kidney function and promote the dissolution of kidney stones. Gokshura is known for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help flush out small stones or gravel, while punarnava helps reduce swelling and supports the renal system. These herbs can be taken in various forms, but the most common and effective ways are in powder form or as decoctions (herbal teas). For gokshura and punarnava, you can start with 1–2 grams of each herb (depending on your body’s tolerance) mixed in warm water or milk, 1–2 times daily. You can also find these herbs in tablet or capsule form if you prefer, though powders are often more potent.
As for the large 12mm stone, while it is quite challenging to dissolve a stone that size without intervention, herbs like chanca piedra (Phyllanthus niruri), pashanbheda (Bergenia ligulata), and tribulus may help soften and reduce stones over time, potentially helping them break into smaller pieces or aiding in smoother passage. However, significant results may take weeks to months, and it’s crucial to remain consistent with the herbal regimen.
Hydration is essential, which you’re already doing, but you may also want to consider adding lemon juice to your water, as it helps alkalize the urine and prevent stone formation. Make sure you’re drinking at least 2–3 liters of water a day to support the flushing process.
In terms of pain relief, Ayurvedic oils and massage techniques can be extremely helpful. Kshirabala oil or mahanarayan oil are great options for massage, as they have anti-inflammatory properties and help with pain management. You can gently massage these oils on your lower back and abdomen to relieve the discomfort caused by the stone. Additionally, a warm compress or castor oil pack on the back or abdomen can help relax the muscles and reduce pain.
Yoga can also be beneficial in promoting kidney health and supporting the movement of the stone, but caution is needed with specific postures. Gentle movements like Supta Baddha Konasana, Savasana, and Viparita Karani (legs up the wall) can help increase circulation and promote relaxation without putting too much strain on the body. Avoid intense or inverted postures, as they may cause unnecessary pressure on the kidneys. Breathing exercises, especially deep diaphragmatic breathing, can also help manage pain and reduce stress, which can exacerbate the discomfort.
As for how long it takes for Ayurvedic treatments to show results, it can vary widely depending on the size of the stone, its location, and your overall health. For a 12mm stone, it’s realistic to expect a few weeks to a few months for noticeable improvements, especially if you incorporate other holistic practices like diet adjustments, herbal treatments, hydration, and stress management. However, if the pain becomes unbearable or if the stone doesn’t pass after a reasonable period, surgical intervention might still be necessary.
Finally, while Ayurveda offers many supportive remedies, it’s essential to stay in close communication with your doctor. If the stone causes persistent pain or any symptoms like hematuria (blood in the urine), fever, or obstruction, seeking medical attention is crucial. Ayurvedic remedies can complement conventional treatments, but it’s important to know when to seek professional care.
In conclusion, treating a 12mm kidney stone naturally is challenging, but Ayurvedic remedies can support kidney function, ease pain, and potentially help reduce the size of the stone over time. Stay consistent, be patient, and if necessary, combine Ayurvedic approaches with conventional care.
Oh wow, dealing with a 12mm kidney stone sounds incredibly painful. I totally get your hesistation about surgery; it’s a big deal and not something anyone wants to rush into. But at the same time, we gotta prioritize your safety. Stones that size are tricky, and while Ayurveda has some cool remedies, it’s true that for stones bigger than 10mm, medical intervention is often recommended for safety.
About the herbs like gokshura and punarnava, they are indeed known in Ayurveda for their renoprotective properties. But, they work better for smaller stones or as a preventative measure. For big stones, it might not be realistic to rely solely on herbs to dissolve it. If you want to give it a try though, taking them as a decoction or powder is usually preferred - mix about 1-2 tsp of each in water and have it twice a day after meals. But, remember, in your case, this should be more of a supportive step rather than a main solution.
Drinking lots of water is great, but it may not provide instant relief from a stone that size. As for the pain, you might try massaging warm castor oil on your lower back and abdomen. It might bring some temporary relief.
About timing, ayurvedic remedies can take a while since they’re all about balance over time. But for a 12mm stone, it’ll likely require patience and persistence, and keep in mind, it might may not shrink adequately without intervention.
You could give gentle, restorative yoga a go. It can help manage stress and improve overall well-being. Avoid any poses that strain your abdomen or lower back, though.
While I am no telling you not to try Ayurveda, please continue to speak with your healthcare provider about your concerns. Especially if you notice any severe pain or other changes, seeking emergency care is crucial.
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