What are Gall Stones?
Gall stones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid (bile) that form in the gallbladder. These stones can range from small grains to large stones and may block bile flow, leading to pain and digestive issues. In Ayurveda, gall stones are linked to an imbalance in Pitta and Kapha doshas, causing bile stagnation and crystallization.
Causes of Gall Stones
- Excess cholesterol in bile: Forms solid crystals.
- Poor bile movement: Leads to accumulation of deposits.
- Obesity & high-fat diet: Increases cholesterol levels in bile.
- Liver dysfunction: Alters bile composition.
- Rapid weight loss or fasting: Increases stone formation.
- Hormonal imbalances: Estrogen dominance can raise cholesterol in bile.
Symptoms of Gall Stones
- ✅ Severe pain in the upper right abdomen
- ✅ Nausea and vomiting after meals
- ✅ Bloating and indigestion
- ✅ Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) in severe cases
- ✅ Dark urine and pale stools
Ayurvedic Approach to Gall Stones Treatment
Ayurveda treats gall stones by dissolving stones naturally, improving digestion, and detoxifying the liver and gallbladder using herbs, Panchakarma therapies, and lifestyle modifications.
Kerala Ayurvedic Treatment for Gall Stones
1. Panchakarma Detox for Gall Bladder Cleansing
- • Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Flushes out toxins and excess bile.
- • Basti (Medicated Enema): Improves bile flow and reduces stone formation.
- • Abhyanga (Herbal Oil Massage): Stimulates gallbladder function.
- • Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): Enhances metabolism and bile circulation.
2. Ayurvedic Herbs for Gall Stones
- • Punarnava (Boerhavia Diffusa): Reduces inflammation and improves digestion.
- • Triphala (Amalaki, Bibhitaki, Haritaki): Detoxifies the liver and gallbladder.
- • Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris): Helps break down gall stones naturally.
- • Kalmegh (Andrographis Paniculata): Supports liver detoxification.
- • Turmeric (Haldi): Reduces bile stagnation and prevents stone formation.
- • Karela (Bitter Gourd): Helps regulate bile secretion.
3. Ayurvedic Diet & Lifestyle for Gall Stones
- ✅ Eat a fiber-rich diet – Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- ✅ Include healthy fats – Coconut oil, olive oil, and ghee for smooth bile flow.
- ✅ Drink plenty of water – Helps flush out toxins.
- ✅ Avoid fried, oily, and processed foods – Prevents stone formation.
- ✅ Consume lemon water or apple cider vinegar – Helps dissolve gall stones.
- ✅ Maintain a healthy weight and avoid rapid weight loss.
4. Yoga & Breathing Exercises for Gallbladder Health
- • Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Stimulates the gallbladder.
- • Dhanurasana (Bow Pose): Aids digestion and bile flow.
- • Pawanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose): Prevents bloating and indigestion.
- • Kapalbhati Pranayama: Detoxifies the liver and gallbladder.