Herbal Action: Lithotripic & Antilithic

Also called: Stone-Dissolving Herbs

Lithotriptic and antilithic herbs work together to dissolve and discharge gall and bladder stones and gravel. Antilithics work to prevent stones from forming in the first place, while some herbs can be taken to actively help discharge existing stones and gravel.

Use with demulcents for comfort when discharging stones and with an antispasmodic to ease spasms while flushing. These herbs are only meant for small stones, continue to take 1–2 months after passing stones.

What they do:

• Dissolve and discharge gall and bladder stones and gravel

• Prevent stones from forming (antilithic action)

• Break down existing stones/gravel for easier passing (lithotriptic action)

How they're used: 

Typically taken as teas or extracts, often combined with a demulcent (like marshmallow) for comfort during discharge, and an antispasmodic to ease cramping while stones or gravel pass.

When to consider them:

For kidney stones, gall stones, gallbladder infection, bone spurs, and calcium deposits.

Herbs

• Black currants

• Blackberry fruit

• Buchu

• Corn silk (kidney)

• Dandelion

• Devil's claw

• Hyssop

• Marshmallow

• Sarsaparilla

• Sorrel

• Tormentil

Specific or gallstones:

• Butcher's broom

• Chaparral

• Cascara sagrada

Specific for kidney stones:

• Goldenrod

• Gravel root

• Horsetail

• Hydrangea root

• Juniper berries

• Stone root

• Uva ursi

• Celery seed

• Cleavers

• Parsley