Ayurveda treatment of Kidney stones (renal calculi) by prescribing illness specific medicinal herbs and dietary recommendations

Causes of Kidney stones (renal calculi) as per principles of ayurveda:

In Ayurveda, kidney stones, known as Vrikka Ashmari, are attributed to imbalances in the doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The causes of kidney stones in Ayurveda are multifaceted and often involve dietary, lifestyle, and constitutional factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for devising effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. Here are the detailed causes of kidney stones in Ayurveda along with their relevance:

1. Vata Imbalance:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Vata dosha governs the movements and flow in the body, including the circulation of fluids. Imbalanced Vata can lead to erratic movements of urine and disrupt the smooth flow in the urinary tract, creating an environment conducive to the formation of stones.
   • Causes:
     • Irregular eating habits and lifestyle.
     • Excessive physical exertion leading to Vata aggravation.
     • Suppression of natural urges, particularly the urge to urinate.

2. Pitta Imbalance:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Pitta dosha, representing fire and transformation, can contribute to the inflammatory processes leading to stone formation. Excessive heat in the urinary tract can cause irritation and the crystallization of minerals.
   • Causes:
     • Consuming excessively spicy, salty, and acidic foods.
     • Dehydration, leading to concentrated urine and increased acidity.
     • Suppression of emotions leading to heightened Pitta.

3. Kapha Imbalance:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Kapha dosha is associated with heaviness, congestion, and the accumulation of fluids. Imbalanced Kapha can lead to the stagnation of urine and the formation of stones due to the accumulation of minerals and toxins.
   • Causes:
     • Excessive consumption of heavy, sweet, and dairy-rich foods.
     • Lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle.
     • Insufficient hydration leading to poor fluid dynamics in the body.

4. Ama (Toxins) Accumulation:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: The presence of ama, undigested substances, in the body is a significant contributor to various disorders, including kidney stones. Ama combines with doshic imbalances and minerals, creating a fertile ground for stone formation.
   • Causes:
     • Poor digestion and assimilation of food.
     • Irregular eating habits and incompatible food combinations.
     • Sedentary lifestyle hindering the proper elimination of toxins.

5. Dehydration and Insufficient Fluid Intake:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Inadequate fluid intake leads to concentrated urine, promoting the crystallization of minerals and the formation of stones. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining the balance of fluids in the body.
   • Causes:
     • Insufficient water intake.
     • Consumption of dehydrating substances like caffeine and alcohol.
     • Ignoring thirst signals and suppressing the urge to drink water.

6. Genetic Predisposition:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Ayurveda recognizes the influence of familial tendencies and genetic factors in the susceptibility to certain health conditions, including kidney stones.
   • Causes:
     • Inherited doshic imbalances.
     • Genetic predisposition to mineral metabolism issues.
     • Family history of kidney stones.

7. Incompatible Diet and Lifestyle:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Consuming foods and engaging in activities that are incompatible with one’s constitution (Prakriti) can disturb the doshic equilibrium, contributing to stone formation.
   • Causes:
     • Ingesting foods that aggravate the specific dosha imbalance.
     • Engaging in activities contrary to one’s Prakriti.
     • Ignoring individual dietary and lifestyle recommendations.

8. Occupational Hazards:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Certain occupations or environmental exposures can contribute to doshic imbalances and the accumulation of toxins, increasing the risk of kidney stones.
   • Causes:
     • Exposure to environmental pollutants and toxins.
     • Sedentary occupations leading to Vata imbalance.
     • Imbalance in the work-rest routine.

Understanding these causes in the Ayurvedic context allows for a holistic approach to prevent and manage kidney stones. Personalized interventions, including dietary modifications, lifestyle adjustments, and herbal remedies, are recommended based on an individual’s constitution and specific imbalances. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes to achieve long-term well-being and prevent the recurrence of kidney stones.

Illness specific medicinal herbs used in preparing ayurveda medications for treatment of Kidney stones (renal calculi):

Ayurveda incorporates various medicinal plants renowned for their efficacy in managing kidney stones (Vrikka Ashmari). These plants are chosen for their diuretic, lithotriptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, addressing the underlying doshic imbalances and promoting overall urinary system health. Here are some names of medicinal plants used in Ayurveda for kidney stones, along with their relevance and detailed usage:

1. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Gokshura is a well-known diuretic herb that helps in promoting urine flow and preventing the formation of kidney stones. It is particularly beneficial in balancing Vata and preventing urinary disturbances.
   • Usage: Gokshura can be consumed in the form of powder or as a decoction. The powdered form can be taken with honey, while the decoction is prepared by boiling Gokshura in water and consumed regularly.

2. Varuna (Crataeva nurvala):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Varuna is a key lithotriptic herb known for its ability to break down kidney stones. It helps in preventing stone formation and contributes to the overall health of the urinary system.
   • Usage: Varuna can be used in various forms, including powder, decoction, or as part of Ayurvedic formulations. Consuming Varuna decoction or powder regularly is recommended for its stone-dissolving properties.

3. Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Punarnava is valued for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in reducing swelling in the urinary tract, promoting urine flow, and preventing the recurrence of kidney stones.
   • Usage: Punarnava can be consumed as a fresh juice or in powdered form. Drinking Punarnava juice or infusing the powder in warm water is a common method of consumption.

4. Pashanabheda (Bergenia ligulata):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Pashanabheda is a lithotriptic herb known for its ability to dissolve kidney stones. It aids in preventing the formation of calculi and supports the healthy functioning of the urinary system.
   • Usage: Pashanabheda is often consumed in the form of a decoction or as part of Ayurvedic formulations. Boiling Pashanabheda in water and consuming the decoction regularly is a recommended practice.

5. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Shatavari is known for its cooling and nourishing properties. It helps in soothing the mucous membranes of the urinary tract and reducing inflammation associated with kidney stones.
   • Usage: Shatavari is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, or as a part of herbal formulations. It can be consumed with warm milk or water to support kidney health.

6. Trikatu (Combination of Ginger, Black Pepper, and Long Pepper):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Trikatu is a combination of warming spices with digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It aids in improving digestion, reducing ama (toxins), and preventing the accumulation of minerals that contribute to stone formation.
   • Usage: Trikatu can be consumed as a powder with honey or warm water. It is often included in formulations to enhance digestive and metabolic functions.

7. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Guduchi is a potent immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory properties. It supports the immune system and helps in preventing infections in the urinary tract.
   • Usage: Guduchi is available in various forms, including tablets, powder, or as part of herbal formulations. Regular consumption of Guduchi helps strengthen the immune system.

8. Daruharidra (Berberis aristata):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Daruharidra is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It aids in preventing and managing infections in the urinary tract, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall kidney health.
   • Usage: Daruharidra is often consumed in the form of capsules or as a powder. It can be taken with honey or warm water to enhance its efficacy.

9. Musta (Cyperus rotundus):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Musta is a cooling herb with diuretic properties. It helps in promoting urine flow, reducing inflammation, and balancing Pitta dosha in the urinary system.
   • Usage: Musta can be consumed in the form of powder or as a decoction. Drinking Musta decoction regularly is beneficial for its diuretic and cooling effects.

10. Punarnavadi Kwath:

    • Relevance in Ayurveda: Punarnavadi Kwath is an Ayurvedic herbal decoction prepared from Punarnava and other herbs. It is known for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and stone-dissolving properties.
    • Usage: Punarnavadi Kwath is typically consumed as a decoction. Boiling the kwath in water and drinking it regularly is recommended for its effectiveness in managing kidney stones.

These medicinal plants, when used appropriately and as part of a holistic approach to kidney stone management, can contribute to the prevention of stone formation, promote urinary health, and address the underlying doshic imbalances in the body. It is advisable to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized recommendations based on individual constitution and specific imbalances.

Over the counter ayurveda medications prescribed for Kidney stones (renal calculi):

Ayurvedic medications for kidney stones (Vrikka Ashmari) are carefully formulated to address the doshic imbalances, dissolve stones, and promote the overall health of the urinary system. Here are some Ayurvedic medications along with their relevance and detailed usage:

1. Chandraprabha Vati:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Chandraprabha Vati is a classical Ayurvedic formulation known for its effectiveness in managing urinary disorders, including kidney stones. It contains herbs with diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and stone-dissolving properties.
   • Usage: Chandraprabha Vati is typically taken in tablet form. The recommended dosage varies, and it is usually taken with warm water or honey after meals. It helps in balancing Vata and Pitta doshas and supports the elimination of stones.

2. Gokshuradi Guggulu:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Gokshuradi Guggulu is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation that combines Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) with other herbs. It is widely used for its diuretic properties, helping in promoting urine flow and preventing the formation of kidney stones.
   • Usage: Gokshuradi Guggulu is available in tablet or powder form. It is commonly taken with warm water or milk. The dosage may vary based on individual conditions, and it is often prescribed by Ayurvedic practitioners.

3. Punarnavadi Mandur:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Punarnavadi Mandur is a classical Ayurvedic formulation that contains Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) and Mandur (Iron Oxide). It is known for its diuretic and detoxifying properties, supporting the dissolution of kidney stones and preventing their recurrence.
   • Usage: Punarnavadi Mandur is usually taken in tablet form. The recommended dosage depends on the individual’s condition and is often prescribed by Ayurvedic practitioners. It is commonly taken with honey or warm water after meals.

4. Pashanabheda (Bergenia ligulata) Ghan Vati:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Pashanabheda Ghan Vati is specifically formulated for its lithotriptic properties, aiding in the dissolution of kidney stones. It helps in preventing stone formation and promotes the healthy functioning of the urinary system.
   • Usage: Pashanabheda Ghan Vati is taken in tablet form. The dosage may vary based on the severity of the condition and individual factors. It is commonly consumed with warm water or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.

5. Varunadi Kwath:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Varunadi Kwath is an Ayurvedic herbal decoction prepared from Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) and other herbs. It is known for its lithotriptic and diuretic properties, contributing to the dissolution of kidney stones and supporting urinary health.
   • Usage: Varunadi Kwath is typically consumed as a decoction. Boiling the kwath in water and drinking it regularly is recommended. The dosage is often prescribed by Ayurvedic practitioners based on the individual’s condition.

6. Chandanadi Vati:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Chandanadi Vati is an Ayurvedic formulation that contains Chandana (Sandalwood) and other herbs. It is valued for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, helping in reducing inflammation in the urinary tract.
   • Usage: Chandanadi Vati is usually taken in tablet form. It is commonly consumed with honey or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner. The dosage may vary based on individual conditions.

7. Yavakshara Churna:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Yavakshara is alkaline in nature and is used for its diuretic and stone-dissolving properties. It helps in balancing acidity in the urine and supports the elimination of kidney stones.
   • Usage: Yavakshara Churna is taken in powder form. It is commonly mixed with honey or warm water and consumed. The dosage is determined based on individual conditions and is often recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners.

8. Punarvasu Mandur:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Punarvasu Mandur is an Ayurvedic formulation containing Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) and Mandur (Iron Oxide). It is known for its diuretic and detoxifying properties, aiding in the dissolution of kidney stones.
   • Usage: Punarvasu Mandur is typically taken in tablet form. The dosage may vary based on individual conditions and is often prescribed by Ayurvedic practitioners. It is commonly consumed with honey or warm water.

It is important to note that the usage and dosage of these medications should be determined by qualified Ayurvedic practitioners based on an individual’s constitution, doshic imbalances, and the severity of the condition. Ayurvedic medications are often part of a holistic treatment approach that includes dietary and lifestyle modifications to address the root causes of kidney stones.

Ayurveda treatment of Kidney stones (renal calculi) at Nakra Ayurveda Hospitals and Herbals Pvt Ltd

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to the treatment of kidney stones (Vrikka Ashmari), emphasizing the correction of doshic imbalances, dissolution of stones, and prevention of recurrence. The treatment protocols are individualized based on the specific dosha involvement, constitution (Prakriti), and the nature of the stones. Here are various types of Ayurvedic treatments for kidney stones along with their relevance, usage, and details:

1. Dietary Modifications (Ahara Chikitsa):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Dietary adjustments play a crucial role in preventing and managing kidney stones. Ayurveda recommends a diet that balances the doshas and avoids foods that contribute to stone formation.
   • Usage: Individuals with kidney stones are advised to follow a diet that is low in oxalates, sodium, and animal proteins. Hydration through the consumption of water, herbal teas, and fresh fruit juices is encouraged. Ayurvedic practitioners provide personalized dietary guidance based on the doshic imbalances.

2. Herbal Medications (Aushadhi Chikitsa):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Herbal medications are formulated to address doshic imbalances, dissolve stones, and promote the overall health of the urinary system. They often include diuretic, lithotriptic, and anti-inflammatory herbs.
   • Usage: Ayurvedic formulations such as Chandraprabha Vati, Gokshuradi Guggulu, and Punarnavadi Mandur are commonly used. The dosage and duration of these medications are determined based on individual conditions and are often prescribed by qualified Ayurvedic practitioners.

3. Panchakarma (Detoxification Therapies):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Panchakarma therapies are essential for eliminating toxins (ama) and correcting doshic imbalances. Specific therapies are selected based on the predominant doshas involved in kidney stone formation.
   • Usage:
     • Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): Virechana is employed to eliminate excess Pitta dosha and toxins. Ayurvedic purgatives like Trivrit (Operculina turpethum) are administered after proper preparation.
     • Basti (Medicated Enema): Basti, particularly Niruha Basti, is used to balance Vata dosha. Medicated decoctions or oils are administered rectally to cleanse and nourish the colon.
     • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Abhyanga helps pacify aggravated Vata, promoting relaxation and improving circulation.
   • Panchakarma should be conducted under the guidance of experienced Ayurvedic practitioners after a thorough assessment of the individual’s condition.

4. Lifestyle Modifications (Vihara Chikitsa):

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Ayurveda emphasizes lifestyle adjustments to prevent doshic imbalances and promote overall well-being. This includes recommendations for sleep, exercise, and stress management.
   • Usage: Regular exercise, especially yoga and specific asanas beneficial for kidney health, is encouraged. Adequate rest, stress reduction techniques, and the establishment of a balanced daily routine contribute to overall health and help prevent doshic imbalances.

5. Yoga and Pranayama:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Yoga and pranayama practices help balance the doshas, enhance circulation, and promote overall vitality. Specific asanas are recommended to improve kidney function and prevent stone formation.
   • Usage: Poses like Pawanmuktasana (wind-relieving pose), Ardha Matsyendrasana (half spinal twist), and Bhujangasana (cobra pose) are beneficial. Pranayama techniques, such as Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), can help balance the doshas.

6. Specific Stone-Dissolving Measures:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Certain Ayurvedic interventions are targeted at dissolving kidney stones and preventing their recurrence.
   • Usage:
     • Yavakshara (Alkaline Preparations): Yavakshara is alkaline and helps balance acidity in the urine. It is taken in the form of Yavakshara Churna with honey or warm water.
     • Lemon Juice: Despite its acidic nature, lemon juice is believed to have an alkalizing effect in the body, potentially aiding in the dissolution of stones. It can be consumed with water.

7. Follow-up and Preventive Measures:

   • Relevance in Ayurveda: Regular follow-up consultations are crucial to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Preventive measures are emphasized to reduce the likelihood of stone recurrence.
   • Usage: Ayurvedic practitioners may recommend ongoing herbal maintenance, dietary guidelines, and lifestyle modifications to maintain doshic balance and support kidney health.

It is imperative to consult with qualified Ayurvedic practitioners for personalized treatment plans based on individual constitution and the nature of kidney stones. Ayurvedic treatments aim not only to alleviate symptoms but also to address the root causes, promoting overall well-being and preventing the recurrence of kidney stones