Can Ayurveda help treat gallbladder and polyps without surgery? - #18708
recently got an ultrasound coz of stomach pain, turns out I have gallbladder and polyps issue. It started few months ago as just mild discomfort after eating oily foods, but now the pain comes more often, even after normal meals. My doctor said polyps are small now but suggested surgery if they grow. Really don’t wanna go down that route unless no other choice. I tried changing diet like reducing fried foods, and taking herbal teas that are supposed to help digestion. Even tried drinking warm water with lemon every morning. It seemed slightly better at first, but lately, it’s like symptoms getting worse again. I never tried specific Ayurvedic treatments or herbs yet coz I’m not sure where to start. My main worry is, can Ayurveda effectively shrink or completely get rid of gallbladder and polyps? Also, what kind of foods or Ayurvedic medicines would you recommend to manage the pain and maybe prevent the polyps from getting bigger? Any specific home remedies you think can actually help with this? Really hoping for an alternative to surgery, so please advise.
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Hi Arjun, Thanks for sharing your concern here. I would want to know a bit more about your condition to help you better! How big are the gallbladder polyps, and have they grown since your last scan? Do you experience other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, burning sensation or bloating along with the pain? Is the pain sharp and radiating, or more of a dull discomfort? Does it worsen at night or after certain types of food, even beyond oily meals? Do you have a history of gallstones or digestive issues like acidity, constipation, or irregular bowel movements? Is there a family history of gall bladder disease in your family?
In terms of diet, do you consume dairy, spicy foods, or processed foods frequently? Have you noticed any intolerance to certain foods, such as dairy or gluten? Do you experience burping, excessive gas, or a bitter taste in the mouth? Have you had any history of high cholesterol or fatty liver, as these can contribute to gallbladder issues? Also, do you follow a regular eating schedule, or do you tend to skip meals?
Lifestyle and stress levels also play a role—do you have a high-stress lifestyle, anxiety, or irregular sleep patterns? Do you engage in regular physical activity, or is your routine mostly sedentary?
Lastly, have you taken any long-term medications (such as hormonal pills, painkillers, or antibiotics) that might have affected your liver and gallbladder function?
These details are important as they will help determine the Dosha imbalance (Pitta predominance most likely ) and guide an Ayurvedic approach for shrinking polyps, relieving pain, and preventing further complications naturally. Let me also make you aware that if the polyps are growing rapidly then surgery could be the prime option along with histopathological testing of the polyp. Ayurvedic treatment can help support recovery in this case as well.
Any recent blood work done like CBC, ESR, CRP, LFT , urine etc? Also any history of jaundice or liver infection? How are your bowel movements?
Any recent blood work done like CBC, ESR, CRP, LFT , urine etc? Also any history of jaundice or liver infection? How are your bowel movements?
the doctor didn’t say that I have any problems with the tests, no other problems, I go to the toilet every day, there were no infections or jaundice
The last scan on February 12 showed gallbladder polyps measuring about 6mm. Six months ago they were about 4mm, so they have grown a bit. I mostly feel a dull discomfort in the upper right side of my abdomen, but sometimes it becomes more acute, especially after fatty foods or dairy products. I also often experience bloating, mild nausea and sometimes a burning sensation, but have never vomited. I have a family history of gallbladder problems on my father’s side, he had problems but I don’t know exactly what kind. My diet includes daily dairy products such as curd, paneer and cheese, and sometimes I eat spicy food. Dairy products, especially cheese and milk, usually trigger my symptoms. My eating patterns are irregular due to work pressure; I often skip breakfast or delay meals. The stress is quite high due to long working hours. I don’t take any medications, sometimes a painkiller for headaches when I am tired from work.
In Ayurveda, gallbladder polyps are primarily understood as a manifestation of aggravated Pitta dosha and impaired digestion. According to Ayurvedic principles, Pitta dosha governs metabolism, digestion, and the transformation of substances within the body. When Pitta dosha becomes imbalanced due to dietary indiscretions, sedentary lifestyle, or emotional stress, it can lead to the accumulation of toxins (ama) and the formation of various pathological conditions, including gallbladder polyps. Treatment - Avoiding spicy, oily, and fried foods and adopting a Pitta-pacifying diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation and support digestion.Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce the risk of gallbladder polyps by promoting overall well-being.Detoxification therapies such as Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) help eliminate toxins (ama) from the body, balance Pitta dosha, and promote healing of the gallbladder. Home remedies - Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce inflammation in the gallbladder and prevent the growth of polyps.Add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bedtime. Apple cider vinegar helps improve digestion, balance pH levels in the body, and dissolve gallstones, which can reduce the risk of developing gallbladder polyps.Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water and drink it before meals
Thank you for your reply, I’ll study the information.
Avoid oily , spicy and packed food Regular exercise. Tab.Arogyavardhini 2-0-2 Tab.Kanchnar guggul 2-0-2 after meal Follow up after 4week
Hi Arjun, Thanks for reaching out. To better understand your condition and suggest an effective Ayurvedic plan, I’d need some details: 1. How large are the polyps, and have they grown since your last scan? 2. Are you experiencing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, burning sensation, or bloating? 3. Is the pain sharp and radiating or more of a dull discomfort? Does it worsen at night or after certain foods? 4. Do you have a history of gallstones, acidity, or irregular bowel movements? 5. Is there a family history of gallbladder issues? 6. How’s your diet—do you consume dairy, spicy, or processed foods often? Any food intolerances like dairy or gluten? 7. Do you experience burping, gas, or a bitter taste in your mouth? 8. Have you had high cholesterol or fatty liver before? 9. How regular are your meal timings, and do you tend to skip meals? 10. What’s your lifestyle like—stress levels, sleep quality, and physical activity? 11. Have you been on any long-term medications that may have impacted your liver or gallbladder health?
These details will help assess any Pitta imbalance and guide the right Ayurvedic approach to manage polyps, ease discomfort, and support recovery. If the polyps are growing rapidly, surgery may be advised, with Ayurveda aiding post-recovery care.
So first thing, you’re not alone worrying about surgeries – totally get that. With Ayurveda, while it can’t promise magic shrinking of polyps outright, it focuses more on managing your symptoms and preventing any worsening through balancing your doshas. Gallbladder issues are mostly related to imbalanced Pitta and Kapha doshas. Think of it as like your body’s own equilibrium going slightly whacky!
Diet is crucial from an Ayurvedic perspective. You’ve done well cutting the fried stuff. Keep that up! Also, sticking to warm, easily digestible foods is key. Try eating more vegetables like bitter gourd (great for Pitta dosha), or steamed and lightly spiced zucchini. Avoid too much dairy and sugar, which can aggravate Kapha.
Triphala is your friend here – it supports digestion and is great for balancing both Pitta and Kapha. A teaspoon of Triphala powder with warm water at bedtime might be well worth trying. Besides that, Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) is known for enhancing liver function and boosting digestive fire (agni).
Simple home remedies? You might wanna try a teaspoon of aloe vera juice in the morning on an empty stomach – it helps soothe the system, and it’s absurdly hydrating too. Tulsi tea could also be a mild aid, as it’s known to help pacify Pitta.
On the topic of herbs, consider Punarnava and Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) for promoting liver and gallbladder health; but connect with a seasoned practitioner to know which ones suit your specific constitution. Don’t rush any new herbs all at once, give each some time and see how your body reacts.
Keeping your stress levels down is… surprisingly beneficial for digestion. Regular yoga or meditation might help curb symptoms by calming your whole system. If pain or symtoms start escalating quickly though, don’t hesitate to get it checked pronto. Keep in touch with your doc too, they can keep tabs on any growth or changes. Stay strong, you’re on the right track – even if it feels like babysteps sometimes!

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