Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys, often due to dehydration, poor diet, or certain medical conditions. Passing them can be incredibly painful, but many people find relief and support through natural remedies that may help break down or flush out the stones. While severe cases require medical treatment, mild to moderate kidney stones can often be managed at home with dietary changes and natural remedies that support kidney function and reduce inflammation.
Image Credit: Nanavati Max Hospital
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones can develop due to several factors, including:
- Dehydration (not drinking enough water)
- High sodium diets (increased calcium in urine)
- Oxalate-rich foods (like spinach or beets)
- Too much animal protein
- Obesity
- Genetics
- Certain medications or supplements (like excess vitamin D or calcium)
Understanding the root causes can help you take preventive steps and choose the right home remedies.
Top 10 Home Remedies for Kidney Stones
1. Lemon Juice and Olive Oil
Why it works: Lemon contains citrate, which may help break down calcium-based stones, and olive oil acts as a lubricant to ease the stone’s passage.
How to use: Mix 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Drink it followed by a full glass of water. Do this up to twice a day.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Why it works: ACV contains acetic acid, which may help dissolve stones and ease kidney pain.
How to use: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of raw, organic apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water. Drink once daily.
3. Basil Juice
Why it works: Basil has acetic acid and antioxidants that support kidney health and reduce uric acid levels.
How to use: Boil fresh basil leaves in water for 10 minutes and drink it as a tea. You can also add fresh basil to smoothies or chew the leaves raw.
4. Watermelon
Why it works: High water content and potassium help flush out stones and regulate acidity in the urine.
How to use: Eat fresh watermelon daily or blend it into juice. Drinking watermelon juice throughout the day supports hydration and detox.
5. Celery Juice
Why it works: Celery increases urine output and helps expel toxins and waste that can lead to stone formation.
How to use: Blend celery stalks with water and drink fresh juice once daily.
6. Pomegranate Juice
Why it works: Pomegranate’s antioxidants support kidney health and improve urine concentration, lowering the risk of stone formation.
How to use: Drink 1–2 glasses of fresh pomegranate juice per day. You can also eat the seeds directly.
7. Dandelion Root Tea
Why it works: A natural diuretic that increases urine production and improves digestion, helping flush the kidneys.
How to use: Steep dried dandelion root in hot water for 10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily.
8. Kidney Bean Broth
Why it works: Rich in magnesium, kidney beans help reduce symptoms and break down stones.
How to use: Boil kidney beans until soft, then strain and drink the broth throughout the day.
9. Nettle Leaf Tea
Why it works: Nettle acts as a natural diuretic, supporting urine flow and helping prevent stone formation.
How to use: Steep dried nettle leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Drink 1–2 cups daily.
10. Hydration with Citrus Water
Why it works: Staying hydrated dilutes substances in urine that lead to stones. Citrus fruits like orange, lemon, or lime offer extra benefits due to citrate.
How to use: Infuse your water with lemon, orange, or lime slices and drink throughout the day.
Wellness Tips for Kidney Stone Relief and Prevention
- Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily to help flush out your kidneys.
- Reduce sodium intake, especially from processed foods.
- Limit animal protein (like red meat, poultry, and eggs).
- Avoid high-oxalate foods like spinach, rhubarb, and beets if you’re prone to calcium oxalate stones.
- Include more calcium-rich plant foods like broccoli or almonds to bind oxalates in the gut.
- Exercise regularly to improve metabolism and digestion.
- Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body.
- Do not delay urination, as this can cause mineral buildup in the kidneys.