Causes & Treatments Of Gall Stones According To Ayurveda

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Gall stone formation is the most common disorder of the biliary tract. In modern medicine, the process of formation of gall stone is referred to as Cholelithiasis. Though the formation of gall stones is common in both men and women but its prevalence is most commonly seen in middle aged women. It is formed due to congestion as well as obstruction in the flow of bile. There are many factors such as food habits, body weight, genetic predisposition that play a role in the formation of gall stones. Their formation generally causes inflammation of the wall of the gall bladder which is known as cholecystitis.

Gall Stones in Ayurveda:

Ayurveda refers gallstones as Pittashmari. According to Ayurveda, gall bladder stores Pitta (bile) and hence this organ is known as Pittashaya in Ayurveda.

Causes of Gall Stones according to Ayurveda:

According to Ayurveda, the vitiation of all the three doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha are responsible for their formation. Excessive intake of spicy, hot and sour food items aggravates Pitta dosha in the body. When kapha dosha is vitiated, it mixes with Pitta dosha and produces picchila (sticky like) substance. Due to ruksha (dry) quality of Vata dosha, the sticky substance becomes stone like.

The Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita, Ashtang Hridya and Sushrut Samhita not only elucidate the pathology of gall stones but also offer the use of innumerable herbs and herbal remedies to resolve cholelithiasis.

What is the treatment of Gall Stones?

As a matter of fact, surgery to remove gall bladder is the most common form of treatment but removal of an entire organ has led to a growing interest in non-surgical treatment for gall stones.

In modern medicine, gall stones are dissolved by certain medications as well but there are high chances of recurrence of gall stones if the medications are stopped.

What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Gall Stones?

The Ayurvedic treatment of Gall Stones eliminates the need for surgery as the treatment assists the body in expelling the stones naturally.

The Ayurvedic herbal formulations manufactured by Yamuna Pharmacy have lekhan (scraping), chedhan (excision), bhedan (excision), mootrala (diuretic), bastishodhan (cleanses the bladder), deepana (stimulating digestive fire), pachana (digestive), vednaasthana (pain reducing), tridoshshamaka (balances all the three doshas) properties which ultimately help in reducing the size of stones and inhibit further stone formation as well.

These vitiated doshas are lodged in pittashaya (gall bladder), thereby causes many different shapes and sizes of gall stones.

There are two types of potent herbs referred as cholagogues and choleretics. cholagogues are plantbased substances that possess the potential to activate the gall bladder whereas choleretics are among the herbs that stimulates the liver to secrete bile and avert the accumulation of cholesterol.

Yamuna Pharmacy is one of the leading Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals serving a large number of population by manufacturing pure Ayurvedic herbs and herbal formulations in the form of tablets, powders, syrups etc. at reasonable prices.

For Gall Stones, Yamuna Pharmacy has manufactured various herbal formulations. These are:

  1. Zapp Syrup
  2. Zapp Tablet
  3. Zapp Syrup: Yamuna Pharmacy’s Zapp Syrup is the best remedy for naturally dissolving the gall stones without any side effects. This syrup acts as a stone dissolver as well as crusher, prevents accumulation, deposition and supersaturation of stone forming chemicals like oxalic acid and calcium hydroxyproline and soothes the irritated bladder.
  • Zapp syrup comprises natural herbs, herbal alkalis and salts such as Pashanbhed, Punarnava, Mustak, Kulattha, Ushir, Apamarg, Gokhru, Varun, Makoya, Karchoora, Yavkshar, Shwet Parpati, Suvarchika, Saindhava etc.

Dose: 1 teaspoonful thrice a day.

  1. Zapp Tablet: Zapp Tablet prepared by Yamuna Pharmacy contains herbs that work synergistically to crush the stone and provide relief in the pain associated with the formation of gall stones.
  • This tablet works by eliminating the toxins within the system and balances the vitiated doshas as well.
  • Regular use of Zapp tablet also prevents the recurrence of gall stones.
  • Zapp Tablet comprises natural concentrated extracts and herbal alkalies such as Pashanbheda, Punarnava, Apamarg, Gokhru, Varun, Makoy, Yavkshar, Shilajit etc.

Dose: Take 2 tablets twice or thrice a day with water.

In addition to proprietary medicines manufactured by Yamuna Pharmacy, there are some classical Ayurvedic formulations as well. These are:

  1. Arogyavardhini Vati
  2. Kapard Bhasam
  3. Punarnava Mandoor
  4. Usheerasava

Diet and Lifestyle:

  • Intake of spices such as black pepper, turmeric is recommended.
  • Fresh aloe vera juice is also effective.
  • Intake of spicy, hot and fried food must be avoided.
  • Regular exercises, yoga and pranayama are recommended.

Hence, it can be concluded that Ayurveda has the potential to treat gall stones effectively and the patients must be encouraged to get benefitted from Ayurvedic system of medicine and lead a happy and healthy life.

Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms, and Ayurvedic Treatments

Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver that stores bile. Bile is essential for digestion, particularly in the emulsification and breakdown of fats. Gallstones can range from being small, pebble-like formations to larger, more complex stones. These stones can cause blockages in the bile ducts, leading to intense pain, infections, and digestive issues.

While conventional treatments for gallstones often involve medications or even surgical removal (cholecystectomy), Ayurveda offers a more holistic approach, aiming to treat the root causes, relieve symptoms, and restore balance to the body.

Causes of Gallstones According to Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, gallstones are seen as a manifestation of an imbalance in the three doshas — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The Pitta dosha, in particular, is closely associated with the liver, bile production, and digestion. Here are the key Ayurvedic causes of gallstones:

  1. Pitta Imbalance (Excess Heat and Bile):

    • Pitta governs metabolism, digestion, and bile production. When Pitta becomes imbalanced due to factors like a spicy diet, alcohol consumption, emotional stress, or excessive heat, it can lead to the formation of too much bile or thickened bile, which forms gallstones.

    • Excessive Pitta causes the liver to produce bile that is too concentrated, leading to improper digestion and the formation of stones.

  2. Accumulation of Ama (Toxins):

    • Ama, or toxins, accumulate in the body when digestion is weak or when the body is exposed to harmful foods, environmental factors, or stress. Ama can clog the bile ducts, leading to impaired bile flow and the development of gallstones.

    • Ama often results from poor digestion (Agni imbalance), overeating, or eating heavy, fatty foods that are difficult to digest.

  3. Kapha Imbalance (Slow Digestion and Congestion):

    • An imbalance in Kapha dosha, associated with sluggish digestion, congestion, and heaviness, can also contribute to gallstones. Kapha can cause stagnation of bile, leading to the accumulation of substances that form stones.

  4. Dietary and Lifestyle Factors:

    • A high-fat diet, low-fiber foods, and excessive consumption of processed and fried foods can contribute to the formation of gallstones.

    • Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and fasting or extreme dieting can also increase the risk of gallstone formation.

  5. Genetic Predisposition:

    • Ayurveda recognizes that some people may be more prone to gallstones due to their genetic makeup or family history of digestive disorders.

  6. Stress and Emotional Factors:

    • Chronic emotional stress can lead to the accumulation of Pitta in the liver and bile, exacerbating the formation of gallstones. Ayurveda sees emotional imbalance as a key factor in physical health, particularly in digestive disorders.

Symptoms of Gallstones

Gallstones may be asymptomatic in some cases, but when they block the bile ducts, they can lead to a range of symptoms, including:

  • Severe abdominal pain (often in the upper right side)

  • Indigestion or bloating after meals

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

  • Dark urine and light-colored stool

  • Fever and chills if an infection is present

  • Pain after consuming fatty or greasy foods

When symptoms are present, immediate medical attention is necessary, especially if an infection (cholangitis or cholecystitis) is suspected.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Gallstones

Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to treat gallstones, focusing on balancing the doshas, strengthening digestion (Agni), and promoting detoxification (Ama elimination). The treatment involves a combination of herbal remedies, dietary recommendations, detoxification therapies, and lifestyle changes.

1. Herbal Remedies for Gallstones

Several herbs are used in Ayurveda to dissolve gallstones, improve bile flow, and promote digestion:

  • Phyllanthus Niruri (Bhumyamalaki):

    • Benefits: Bhumyamalaki is renowned for its liver detoxification and bile-regulating properties. It helps in dissolving gallstones and improving liver function.

    • How to Use: Take Bhumyamalaki powder (1 teaspoon) with warm water or in tablet form.

  • Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris):

    • Benefits: Gokshura has diuretic and detoxifying properties, which can help in removing toxins (Ama) from the body and improving kidney and liver function.

    • How to Use: Gokshura powder (1 teaspoon) can be taken with water or mixed with honey for its health benefits.

  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

    • Benefits: Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and detoxifying herb that supports liver health, digestive function, and improves bile production.

    • How to Use: Take turmeric powder with warm milk or water. Turmeric capsules are also available.

  • Kalonji (Nigella sativa):

    • Benefits: Kalonji, also known as black seed, helps in reducing the formation of gallstones and promoting healthy bile flow.

    • How to Use: Consume Kalonji oil (half a teaspoon) or use Kalonji seeds in food.

  • Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

    • Benefits: Guduchi is a powerful detoxifier that helps in flushing out toxins (Ama) and improving liver function. It aids in the digestion of fats, preventing the formation of stones.

    • How to Use: Take Guduchi powder (1 teaspoon) with warm water.

  • Coriander Seeds (Coriandrum sativum):

    • Benefits: Coriander is known for its ability to stimulate bile secretion, relieve indigestion, and improve liver function, which can prevent the formation of gallstones.

    • How to Use: Boil coriander seeds in water, strain, and drink the water regularly to support digestion.

2. Ayurvedic Detoxification (Panchakarma)

Panchakarma, the Ayurvedic detoxification therapy, is highly effective in cleansing the liver, kidneys, and gallbladder, as well as removing Ama (toxins) that may be contributing to the formation of gallstones. Panchakarma therapies include:

  • Virechana (purgation): This therapy helps eliminate toxins from the digestive tract and supports the removal of excess Pitta.

  • Basti (medicated enema): This therapy cleanses the colon and removes toxins from the body, which helps in balancing the doshas.

  • Abhyanga (oil massage): Massaging the body with medicated oils helps reduce stress and promote circulation, encouraging the body to release toxins.

  • Shirodhara: Pouring warm oil over the forehead helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve digestion.

Consultation with an Ayurvedic practitioner is essential to determine the most suitable Panchakarma therapy.

3. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

A healthy diet and lifestyle are crucial in both preventing and managing gallstones.

  • Follow a Pitta-balancing diet: To reduce the formation of gallstones, it’s essential to avoid excess spicy, fried, and greasy foods. Focus on cooling and easy-to-digest foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.

  • Avoid high-fat and processed foods: Eating a diet rich in fiber, and low in saturated fats, helps prevent the formation of gallstones. Include green leafy vegetables, sprouts, and fruits like apples, pears, and berries to aid digestion.

  • Eat small, frequent meals: This helps maintain bile flow and prevent the accumulation of bile in the gallbladder, reducing the risk of stone formation.

  • Hydrate well: Drink plenty of water and herbal teas throughout the day to promote healthy digestion and detoxification.

  • Exercise regularly: Moderate physical activity helps with digestion, promotes bile flow, and reduces the risk of obesity, which is a risk factor for gallstones.

4. Stress Management

Since stress is a significant contributor to Pitta imbalance and poor digestion, incorporating stress-reducing practices such as meditation, yoga, and pranayama can greatly benefit individuals with gallstones.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive, natural approach to treating gallstones by focusing on balancing the doshas, improving digestion, **det

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