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What to drink to shrink gallstones?

Apple cider vinegar with apple juice Some people believe that apple juice softens gallstones, allowing them to be excreted from the body with ease. One cleanse involves mixing apple cider vinegar into the apple juice before drinking it.

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We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. While medication and surgery are often used to resolve gallstone complaints, many people turn to natural remedies instead.

Not all gallstones cause symptoms. When symptoms are present, they include:

There are two types of gallstones:

Gallstones vary in shape and size, with some growing to the size of a golf ball. Although there is no reliable evidence that these remedies work, the following treatments are popular natural alternatives to medical interventions.

1. Gallbladder cleanse

One of the most common treatments for gallstones is a gallbladder cleanse. Proponents of this method claim it breaks down the gallstones and flushes them from the body. A 2009 paper states that although scientific evidence to support a gallbladder cleanse is minimal, anecdotal reports indicate it may be helpful for some people. A gallbladder flush involves consuming a blend of apple juice, herbs, and olive oil for 2 to 5 days. Recipes vary, and some procedures allow a person to eat food while others do not. This diet may be unsafe people with diabetes or blood sugar problems, who do not consume solid food during the cleanse.

2. Apple cider vinegar with apple juice

Some people believe that apple juice softens gallstones, allowing them to be excreted from the body with ease. One cleanse involves mixing apple cider vinegar into the apple juice before drinking it. Although there is limited evidence to suggest that apple cider vinegar does have some health benefits, no studies support its use as a treatment for gallstones. Furthermore, people with diabetes, stomach ulcers, and hypoglycemia should be wary of consuming large amounts of fruit juice.

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Apple cider vinegar is available to buy in health stores and online.

3. Dandelion

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health , dandelion has been used historically to treat gallbladder, liver, and bile duct problems. Supporters believe that the bitter roots may stimulate bile production in the gallbladder. People usually drink dandelion teas or coffees to remove their gallstones. However, there is no evidence to suggest this is beneficial. Furthermore, people with gallstones, gallbladder problems, or kidney problems should speak with a doctor before consuming dandelion. A range of dandelion teas and supplements are available to purchase in health stores and online.

4. Milk thistle

Milk thistle has been used medicinally to detoxify the liver for centuries . While it may support the liver and gallbladder, there are no studies evaluating its effects on gallstones. A person can take milk thistle as a tonic or in a capsule or tablet form. People with diabetes, ragweed allergies, or a history of hormone-sensitive cancers should discuss the use of milk thistle with their doctor.

Milk thistle is available to buy in health stores and online.

5. Lysimachiae herba

Lysimachiae herba or gold coin grass is a popular traditional Chinese remedy for gallstones. Research suggests it may be beneficial for treating or preventing cholesterol gallstones.

The supplement is available as a powder or liquid.

6. Artichoke

Extracts of artichoke have been shown to stimulate bile production and aid both gallbladder and liver function. However, there is no research specifically focusing on the effects of artichoke on gallstones. Globe artichokes can be cooked and prepared in various ways. But the research is based on artichoke extract supplements, which are probably more potent than the vegetables. It is essential to speak with a doctor before taking artichoke extract because it may cause a gallbladder attack if a bile duct is obstructed.

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7. Psyllium husk

Psyllium is a soluble fiber derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. Research has shown it to benefit the heart, pancreas, and other areas of the body. A very old study found that psyllium husks protected hamsters from the formation of cholesterol gallstones. A more recent study , from 1999, supports these findings.

8. Castor oil pack

Castor oil packs are a popular remedy among naturopaths and natural living enthusiasts for a wide variety of complaints. To apply a castor oil pack, soak a cloth in warm castor oil and place on the abdomen. Cover with a towel. Some people choose to place a heat source, such as a hot water bottle or heating pad, on top. Leave the pack on the abdomen for up to an hour. There are no scientific studies to support the use of this treatment for gallstones.

9. Acupuncture

Acupuncture may relieve gallstone symptoms, although the research is very limited.

In one study on 60 people with cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation), acupuncture was found to alleviate back pain, stomachache, and nausea, while also regulating the volume of the gallbladder. It should be noted that this research does not look specifically at gallstones, and it may only relieve symptoms, rather than helping people to pass the stones.

10. Yoga

Some yoga poses are said to cure gallstones, although no studies support this claim. The following poses are believed by some to be beneficial for people with gallstones:

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