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| - Last Updated on October 28, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a herbal concoction can remove gallbladder and kidney stones naturally. We did the fact check to term this as false.
The Claim
An Instagram post suggests drinking a herbal concoction made from sweet oranges, carrots, and bay leaves. The video instructs viewers to boil these ingredients together, then strain the mixture and drink the juice every day. It claims to cure gallbladder and kidney stones. Additionally, it suggests that the concoction can benefit overall health, as well as skin and eye health.
Fact Check
Can a herbal concoction dissolve gallbladder stones?
No, there is no scientific evidence that drinking a concoction of sweet oranges, carrots, and bay leaves can dissolve gallbladder stones. Gallstones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder due to imbalances in substances like cholesterol. They are not easily dissolved, and treatment often requires medical intervention. Here’s what you need to know:
- Medication is sometimes used: Certain medicines with bile acids can help dissolve small stones, but they are prescribed by healthcare professionals. Even then, these treatments take time and may not work for everyone. Most commonly, surgery is recommended for gallstones removal.
- Unproven remedies can be risky: Relying on a homemade drink might delay essential medical care. This is likely to lead to severe complications.
The herbal mixture described in the post lacks the specific compounds needed to break down gallstones. It’s critical to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
We checked with Dr Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant & HOD Gastroenterology Hepatology & Therapeutic Endoscopy, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, for his expert views on gallstone removal. He says, “Gallstones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder and won’t dissolve just by changing your diet. Their presence often signals that the gallbladder isn’t working as it should, and for many people, surgery is the most effective way to treat the issue. It’s important to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and advice on the best treatment options.”
There’s a very popular home remedy that lacks evidence, with people suggesting that Kulthi lentils can cure gallstones in just 15 days. However, this is exaggerated and false.
Can this concoction help remove kidney stones?
No, there is no evidence suggesting that this concoction can dissolve or remove kidney stones. Kidney stones are solid deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. Their treatment depends on the size, type, and cause of the stones. Here’s why this herbal concoction doesn’t work:
- Small stones might pass naturally: Drinking plenty of fluids can sometimes help pass small kidney stones. However, larger stones need proper medical attention, such as medication or surgical intervention.
- No therapeutic properties in the ingredients: Sweet oranges, carrots, and bay leaves do not have any scientifically proven ability to dissolve or break down kidney stones.
Staying hydrated is essential to prevent kidney stones, but there’s no evidence that this mixture has any special benefits in treating or eliminating existing stones. Similarly, people also suggest having cucumber to treat kidney stones, but this is unsubstantiated.
Is there any benefit of drinking this herbal concoction for general health?
Drinking juice made from sweet oranges and carrots can offer some general health benefits, but the claims made in the post are exaggerated.
- Oranges and Carrots: These are full of vitamins and antioxidants. Vitamin C from oranges boosts the immune system, and vitamin A from carrots supports eye health.
- Bay Leaves: While great for flavouring food, there’s no solid evidence they have medicinal properties that address conditions like gallstones or kidney stones.
Sure, this drink could be a refreshing way to get some extra vitamins, but it’s essential not to mistake nutritional benefits for medical cures. Consuming a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables is always a plus, but it should not serve as a replacement for proper medical treatment.
We got valuable insights from Shruti K Bhardwaj, Chief Clinical Nutritionist at Zydus Hospital, Ahmedabad. She says, “Drinking a mix of sweet oranges, carrots, and bay leaves can offer some general health benefits, mainly because it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Sweet oranges are a great source of vitamin C, which supports immunity, while carrots are known for their high vitamin A content, which is good for eye health. However, it’s crucial to understand that these benefits don’t extend to treating medical conditions like gallstones or kidney stones. While this drink can be a healthy addition to your diet, it shouldn’t be relied on as a remedy for specific health issues.”
Can this remedy prevent surgery for gallbladder or kidney stones?
No, there is no basis to claim that drinking this mixture can prevent the need for surgery.
- Surgery is often necessary: For gallstones causing pain, doctors might recommend a procedure called cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder. Similarly, large kidney stones might require procedures like lithotripsy (breaking stones with shock waves) or surgery to remove them.
- Delaying proper treatment can be dangerous: Depending on unproven remedies can lead to worsening symptoms and more serious health complications. Seeking timely medical help ensures that you get the correct treatment when needed.
Ms. Bhardwaj adds, “To lower the risk of gallstones, avoid extremely low-calorie diets and focus on eating a balanced diet that includes healthy fats. Maintaining a healthy weight is also key. Make sure to get advice from qualified experts who share evidence-based information, as this ensures you’re following reliable health practices.”
THIP Media Take
The claim that a herbal concoction of sweet oranges, carrots, and bay leaves can remove gallbladder or kidney stones naturally is false. There’s no scientific proof that these ingredients can break down or eliminate stones. Effective treatment should be guided by a healthcare professional. While the drink may offer some vitamins, it is not a substitute for proper medical care. Relying on unproven remedies can delay essential treatment.
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