10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Urinary Calculus

Herbal decoctions for urinary calculus are concentrated liquid extracts made from a combination of herbs, which have been traditionally used to treat kidney stones and other urinary tract issues.

These decoctions help to dissolve and flush out stones by increasing urine flow, reducing inflammation, and breaking down mineral deposits. For example, the decoction of stone root (Collinsonia canadensis) and goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) has been found to be effective in treating kidney stones, as it helps to increase urine output and reduce pain and discomfort.

This improves lives by allowing individuals to manage their symptoms more effectively, reducing the risk of complications, and improving overall quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for urinary calculus, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with urinary calculus because of its natural diuretic properties, which stimulate the kidneys to increase urine production and flush out small stones.

The decoction's high water content also helps to dilute the concentration of minerals in the urine, making it more difficult for them to precipitate and form stones. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds may help reduce inflammation and prevent further stone formation.

By promoting healthy kidney function and reducing stone formation, dandelion decoctions can provide relief from urinary calculus symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin that helps break down urinary stones by inhibiting the crystallization of calcium oxalate, a common component of kidney stones.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract, making it easier to pass stones.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria in the urinary tract, which can contribute to the formation of stones, as well as have antioxidant properties that help protect the kidneys from damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Roots: They contain saponins, which help dissolve kidney stones.
• Leaves: They have diuretic properties that increase urine production, helping to flush out stones.
• Flowers: They possess anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and discomfort associated with kidney stones.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for urinary calculus.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 bunches of fresh plant material in the early morning when it is dry.
2. Cut the harvested plant material into small pieces and weigh out 20 grams for every 500 milliliters of solvent.
3. Combine the plant material with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh.
5. Allow the liquid to cool before storing it in a dark glass container for up to 3 days.

2. Berberis aristata

Tree turmeric decoctions helps with urinary calculus because it has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract.

The curcuminoids present in turmeric have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can contribute to kidney stone formation, while also helping to break down and eliminate calcium oxalate stones.

Additionally, turmeric's natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce the risk of UTIs, which can increase the likelihood of developing urinary calculi.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Berberis aristata decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Berberine: It helps with urinary calculus by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that contribute to the formation of kidney stones, as well as by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract.
• Oxyresveratrol: It helps with urinary calculus by preventing the formation of calcium oxalate stones, one of the most common types of kidney stones, through its ability to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes involved in stone formation.
• Vasaka alkaloids: They help with urinary calculus by increasing urine output, reducing the concentration of minerals that can contribute to stone formation, and inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes involved in stone formation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tree turmeric used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Roots: They are most commonly used due to their high concentration of alkaloids, particularly berberine, which is effective in dissolving kidney stones.
• Barks: The barks are also used to treat urinary calculus as they contain berberine and other alkaloids that help in breaking down and eliminating kidney stones from the body.
• Leaves: Berberine-rich leaves are used in decoctions to treat urinary calculus as they help in reducing inflammation, pain, and swelling associated with kidney stones.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tree turmeric for urinary calculus.

1. Gather 1-2 grams of dried roots of berberis aristata and store them in an airtight container.
2. Boil 1 liter of water for 10-15 minutes to ensure it reaches a rolling boil state.
3. Add the dried roots to the boiling water and simmer for 10-15 minutes at medium heat.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool down to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator.

3. Arctium lappa

Burdock decoctions helps with urinary calculus because its diuretic properties increase urine production, which helps to flush out small stones and gravel from the urinary tract.

The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in burdock also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the kidneys and ureters, making it an effective remedy for preventing stone formation.

Additionally, burdock's mucilaginous properties soothe and protect the urinary tract lining, reducing irritation and promoting healthy kidney function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Lappaol a: A triterpenoid saponin that helps break down and dissolve kidney stones by inhibiting the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, which are a common component of urinary calculi.
• Arctiin: A phenolic glycoside that exhibits diuretic properties, increasing urine production and helping to flush out the kidneys, thereby preventing the formation of stones.
• Arctigenin: A lignan that has been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in the formation of kidney stones, specifically those responsible for converting oxalate into calcium oxalate crystals.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Roots: They contain high levels of inulin, a natural diuretic that helps to flush out kidney stones and relieve urinary tract issues.
• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, the leaves help to reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of kidney stones.
• Seeds: The seeds have been traditionally used to treat urinary problems, including kidney stones, due to their high content of mucilages that help to soothe and protect the urinary tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for urinary calculus.

1. Harvest 20 grams of fresh arctium lappa roots or 10 grams of dried roots.
2. Crush the roots into small pieces using a mortar and pestle to increase surface area.
3. Combine the crushed roots with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

4. Juniperus communis

Juniper decoctions helps with urinary calculus because of its potent diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb has been traditionally used to treat kidney stones by increasing urine production, reducing inflammation, and relaxing the muscles in the ureters, allowing for smooth passage of stones. Additionally, juniper's antiseptic and antibacterial actions help prevent infections that can accompany urinary tract stone formation.

By promoting healthy urination and reducing discomfort, juniper decoctions provide a natural solution for alleviating symptoms associated with urinary calculus.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Juniperus communis decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Terpenes: Terpenes in Juniperus communis decoctions help with urinary calculus by reducing inflammation and pain associated with kidney stones due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds in Juniperus communis decoctions help with urinary calculus by acting as diuretics, increasing urine production to help flush out kidney stones and reduce their size.
• Terpenic phenol: Terpenic phenol in Juniperus communis decoctions help with urinary calculus by stimulating the kidneys to produce more urine, which can help in dissolving and eliminating kidney stones, and also by reducing spasms in the urinary tract.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of juniper used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Roots: They are used due to their diuretic properties, which help to increase urine production and flush out kidney stones.
• Fruits: The berries of Juniperus communis contain essential oils that have antiseptic and diuretic properties, helping to prevent infection and promote urine flow.
• Leaves: They are used for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in relieving pain and reducing inflammation associated with urinary calculi.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic juniper for urinary calculus.

1. Gather 25 grams of dried juniperus communis berries and place them in a clean glass container.
2. Combine the berries with 250 milliliters of cold water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a separate container to remove the solids.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with urinary calculi because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic properties.

The flavonoids and triterpenoids present in licorice root have been shown to inhibit the formation of kidney stones by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidneys. Additionally, licorice decoctions can help increase urine flow and dilute stone-forming substances, making it easier for small stones to pass through the urinary tract without causing complications.

This natural remedy has been used effectively in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various kidney problems, including urinary calculus.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Licorice glycosides: These compounds, particularly glycyrrhizin, help by inhibiting the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), which is involved in the formation of urinary stones by increasing the levels of mineralocorticoids.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra, such as glabrene, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the inflammation associated with urinary calculus, making it easier to pass the stones.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids, including 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the urinary tract, making it more conducive to the passage of urinary stones.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Roots: They are rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to break down kidney stones and reduce inflammation.
• Barks: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that may help to prevent the formation of kidney stones.
• Leaves: They are also a good source of glycyrrhizin and other compounds that may help to relieve symptoms associated with urinary calculus.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for urinary calculus.

1. Harvest fresh or dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from a reputable source in late summer.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop 1-2 teaspoons of the roots into small pieces to release their active compounds.
4. Combine the chopped roots with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
5. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes then strain and discard the solids.

6. Tilia platyphyllos

Broad-leaved lime decoctions helps with urinary calculus because of its natural diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The decoction's flavonoids and terpenes help to reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, alleviating discomfort and pain associated with kidney stones. Additionally, the decoction's increased fluid intake stimulates urine production, which aids in the passage of stone fragments, reducing the risk of further complications.

By promoting healthy kidney function and dissolving existing stones, broad-leaved lime decoctions provide a natural remedy for managing urinary calculus.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Flavonoids: They help with urinary calculus by reducing inflammation and preventing the formation of kidney stones through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Phenolic acids: They aid in the prevention and dissolution of kidney stones by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that contribute to stone formation and by reducing oxidative stress.
• Triterpenes: They help with urinary calculus by inhibiting the crystallization of minerals that form kidney stones, thereby preventing stone formation and promoting their dissolution.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Leaves: Used due to their diuretic properties which help in increasing urine production and flushing out kidney stones.
• Roots: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which aid in soothing kidney inflammation and preventing infection.
• Barks: Employed for their diuretic and astringent properties, which help in reducing the size of kidney stones and preventing further growth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for urinary calculus.

1. Gather 2-3 handfuls of dried tilia platyphyllos flowers from a trusted source or dry fresh flowers yourself.
2. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan for 5-7 minutes over medium heat.
3. Add the dried flowers to the boiling water and reduce heat to low.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes allowing the flavors and properties to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.

7. Crataegus monogyna

Hawthorn decoctions helps with urinary calculus because of its potent diuretic properties, which increase urine production and flow to effectively flush out small stones or gravel from the kidneys.

The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory compounds in hawthorn also help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by kidney stones, making it an effective natural remedy for managing this condition.

Additionally, hawthorn's ability to reduce inflammation may prevent further stone growth and formation, promoting overall urinary tract health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to have diuretic properties, which can help increase urine production and potentially flush out stones.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract, potentially alleviating symptoms of urinary calculus.
• Tannins: Tannins have astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of new stones by binding to stone-forming substances and preventing their aggregation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Barks: The barks are used to make decoctions for urinary calculus due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make decoctions for urinary calculus due to their diuretic and antiseptic properties.
• Fruits: The fruits are used to make decoctions for urinary calculus due to their diuretic and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for urinary calculus.

1. Gather 30g of dried leaves and 20g of dried fruits of crataegus monogyna.
2. Combine the ingredients in a saucepan with 1 liter of cold water.
3. Boil the mixture for 5 minutes then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Continue to simmer for 10 minutes then remove from heat and let steep.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store in airtight container.

8. Solanum dulcamara

Bittersweet decoctions helps with urinary calculus because they stimulate the kidneys to release small stones and gravel, promoting their passage out of the body through urine.

The bitter compounds in these decoctions also help to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) that can lead to stone formation.

Additionally, herbal bittersweet decoctions may help to dissolve and break down existing stones over time, making them easier to pass naturally.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solanum dulcamara decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Alkaloids: These compounds, specifically solasodine and solasonine, help break down kidney stones by inhibiting the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, a common component of urinary calculi.
• Glycosides: Solanum dulcamara glycosides, including soladulcine, have been found to possess diuretic properties, which help increase urine production and flush out kidney stones.
• Phenolic acids: The phenolic acids present in Solanum dulcamara, such as caffeic acid, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with kidney stone formation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bittersweet used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Roots: The roots of Solanum dulcamara are used to make decoctions for urinary calculus due to their diuretic properties that help to increase urine production and alleviate symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Solanum dulcamara are used to make decoctions for urinary calculus due to their ability to help dissolve and flush out kidney stones with their alkaloid content.
• Stems: The stems of Solanum dulcamara are used to make decoctions for urinary calculus due to their anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with kidney stones.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bittersweet for urinary calculus.

1. Harvest 2-3 stems of the climbing vine with purple flowers that bloom in mid to late summer.
2. Chop the harvested stems into small pieces and dry them in a cool dark place for 1-2 weeks.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried stem pieces with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes and strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
5. Drink 1/2 cup of the decoction 1-3 times a day as needed for its medicinal properties.

9. Vaccinium myrtillus

Blueberry decoctions helps with urinary calculus because they possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress within the kidneys.

The anthocyanins present in blueberries also exhibit powerful antimicrobial actions, which can help combat bacterial infections that may contribute to kidney stone formation.

Additionally, the flavonoids and phenolic acids in blueberry decoctions may help improve urine flow and reduce calculus growth by inhibiting calcium oxalate crystal formation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the urinary tract, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
• Tannins: Tannins have astringent properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of kidney stones by binding to minerals and preventing their crystallization.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce the risk of kidney stone formation by preventing the growth of bacteria that can cause urinary tract infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of blueberry used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Leaves: Used for urinary calculus due to their astringent and diuretic properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote urine flow.
• Fruits: Used for urinary calculus due to their diuretic and antiseptic properties, which help prevent the formation of kidney stones and promote overall urinary health.
• Barks: Used for urinary calculus due to their diuretic and antispasmodic properties, which help relieve pain and promote urine flow in individuals with kidney stones.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blueberry for urinary calculus.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of fresh vaccinium myrtillus leaves and flowers in the summer months.
2. Chop the harvested vaccinium myrtillus leaves and flowers into small pieces.
3. Combine the chopped vaccinium myrtillus with 200-250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes then strain it using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Store the prepared decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

10. Aesculus hippocastanum

Horse chestnut decoctions helps with urinary calculus because of its natural anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.

The decoction contains aesculin, a compound that reduces inflammation in the urinary tract and helps to break down kidney stones by increasing urine production. Additionally, horse chestnut's flavonoids work to stabilize cell membranes and improve blood flow to the kidneys, further supporting the elimination of stone fragments from the body.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms associated with urinary calculus, making it a popular treatment option for many equine and human practitioners.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aesculus hippocastanum decoctions that help with urinary calculus.

• Saponins: Saponins in Aesculus hippocastanum decoctions help with urinary calculus by reducing inflammation and soothing the urinary tract, making it easier to pass kidney stones.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ellagic acid and ferulic acid, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent the formation of kidney stones by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the urinary tract.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Aesculus hippocastanum decoctions, including quercetin and kaempferol, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of urinary calculus, such as pain and inflammation, by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the urinary tract.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of horse chestnut used to make decoctions for urinary calculus.

• Barks: Rich in tannins and flavonoids, barks are used to treat urinary problems and reduce inflammation.
• Roots: Roots are used due to their high concentration of saponins and other compounds that help dissolve kidney stones.
• Seeds: Seeds of Aesculus hippocastanum contain aesculin, a saponin that has been traditionally used to treat urinary calculus and dissolve kidney stones.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic horse chestnut for urinary calculus.

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of the dried aesculus hippocastanum bark and roots from a trusted supplier.
2. Grind the dried aesculus hippocastanum bark and roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
3. Combine 10-20 grams of the powdered aesculus hippocastanum with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes and then strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Allow the decoction to cool and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for urinary calculus?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with urinary calculus is a blend of Uva Ursi, Juniper berries, and Corn Silk.

Uva Ursi, rich in arbutin, helps to reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of new stones. Juniper berries, with their diuretic properties, aid in flushing out toxins and increasing urine production to help break down and pass existing stones.

Corn Silk, high in mucilage, soothes and calms the urinary tract, promoting a smooth passage of the stones out of the body.

What ailments similar to urinary calculus are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to urinary calculus that are treated with herbal decoctions are various kidney and bladder problems.

These include conditions such as nephrolithiasis, urolithiasis, and cystitis, which are characterized by the formation of stones or crystals in the kidneys, ureters, or bladder.

Herbal decoctions made from herbs like uva ursi, stinging nettle, and dandelion root have been used traditionally to help dissolve and remove these stone formations, promoting urinary tract health and reducing symptoms such as pain and discomfort.