It is a fact that kidneys have a vital function to perform. They remove waste and toxins from the body and need to keep functioning normally for our body to remain healthy. Anything that disrupts kidney’s function and their health could lead to other problems.

While kidneys need to work continuously, some residue minerals build up inside it. Most of the times, the body flushes out these deposits. However, there are occasions when these deposits crystallize. The crystals are made up of calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. The crystallized waste can be small or large stones. Smaller stones are passed out easily out of the body when the urine is passed.

Symptoms of kidney stones
Large kidney stones that get stuck in the ureters can lead to many complications. Some of the common problems have been listed below.

• Painful urination
• Nausea and vomiting
• Back pain
• Spasms
• Blood in urine

When you come across these situations, it is time to see your doctor and a urologist. However, before you opt for a surgery, if the problem is still in the early stages, you can try some useful home remedies to dissolve and pass the stones.

Increase your water intake
Drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated is an essential step in dealing with many problems in a simple and highly effective way. Drinking lots of fluids can help clear out toxins from the body. Water can also help in flushing out the wastes accumulated in your kidneys.

Apple cider vinegar makes your life easier
Apple cider vinegar has numerous health benefits. The citric acid content in it can help dissolve kidney stones. Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with around 200 ml of drinking water.

Nettle leaf tea
Nettle leaf tea plant provides many health benefits. It is used to treat joint pains and seasonal allergies. It is also a good diuretic, that is, it promotes the production of urine which clears toxins from the body. Nettle leaf tea can help clear the urinary tract of mineral deposits. It prevents further growth of existing kidney stones, helps dissolve kidney stones, and inhibits the formation of new ones.

Eat a lot of fibrous foods
Soluble and insoluble fiber aids digestion and helps in the removal of wastes from the body. Consume legumes, fruits, and whole grains. The insoluble fiber in these foods bind the calcium in the intestine and prevents it from moving to the kidneys. The process helps reduce the buildup of kidney stones.

Vegetable proteins
Animal proteins increase the chances of the formation of kidney stones. To avoid this, get as much protein as possible from vegetable sources. Include almonds, beans, soybeans, green peas, spirulina, quinoa, and chia seeds in your diet.

Lemon juice
Citric acid can dissolve kidney stones, and what better source of citric acid than a lemon. The chemical called citrate found in lemons prevents the formation of new kidney stones. Mix freshly squeezed lemon juice with water and drink it often.

Kidney beans
Coincidentally, the beans named after the organ can also help in breaking up and flushing out kidney stones. Kidney beans contain a lot of nutrients and fiber that help keep the kidneys healthy. These also effectively help dissolve kidney stones. Cook beans in water until they are soft. Strain the liquid twice, and drink this bean broth.

Basil leaves juice
Basil is a remedy for many problems. Make a herbal drink with fresh or dried basil leaves. Drink this herbal tea to break kidney stones. The acetic acid in basil dissolves existing kidney stones and stops the formation of new stones. Basil also prevents the buildup of uric acid and keeps its level under control.

Pomegranate juice
Who doesn’t love the delicious pomegranate juice? Quite like basil, pomegranate breaks up existing kidney stones. It prevents the formation of new stones and also helps flush out toxins from the body.

Other measures
Besides trying out the remedies mentioned above, you must also exercise and cut your consumption of sugar. Calcium can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. But, inadequate levels of calcium in the body leads to an increase in oxalate levels which can cause kidney stones. Add natural sources of calcium and magnesium to your diet.

Home remedies are simple and effective. However, consult with your doctor before trying any of these remedies. Some of these food items may be contraindicated when you are taking certain medications, or if you suffer from certain diseases. Pregnant women also need to be careful about any medicine, natural or otherwise, as it might affect the fetus.

Kidney stones can cause pain and discomfort. Before deciding to remove the stone via surgery, consider non-invasive, natural remedies. The remedies help dissolve the stones and flush them out from your system. The solutions are simple, the ingredients accessible. Try them first in consultation with your doctor. You can avoid surgery if one of these remedies work for you.