|
Essential Oils |
Bella Mira Essential Oil Supplements
Essential Oil Information and Use
|
Chemical Free |
Chemical Free Body Care Products
|
Gluten Free |
Gluten Free Living and Recipes
|
Important Information |
Detoxification and Digestion Products
Save Your Computer Free Protection
|
Great Products |
|
FREE Wellness Tests |
Hormone Balance Test New Improved
|
Contact Us |
Our Shopping Cart Is:
Free Samples w/$150 Order (when available)
More Kids Getting Kidney Stones/ Kidney Stone 101 11-12-08
by Jon Barron
The times, they are a 'changing. Until recently, the diseases of childhood
meant chicken pox, measles, mumps and the like; but lately, large numbers of
kids are getting such "adult diseases" as diabetes, hypertension, and now,
kidney stones. In fact, enough children get kidney stones these days that
hospitals such as Johns Hopkins are establishing dedicated pediatric kidney
stone clinics. That's not a joke! Really, pediatric kidney stone clinics.
Dr. Caleb P. Nelson, who directs such a pediatric clinic at Children's Hospital
in Boston, comments: "The older doctors would say in the '70s and '80s, they'd
see a kid with a stone once every few months. Now we see kids once a week or
less." (In southern states, the rate is two to three times higher. Hmm! I wonder
if diet plays a role?) Also, until recently those few children who did present
with kidney stones usually had hereditary disorders such as Lesch-Nyhan
Syndrome, but now 50 percent of new cases have no hereditary disorder causing
the problem.
What's provoking the spike in the painful condition? Most likely the same old
culprits I usually harp on -- poor diet and bad lifestyle choices. According to
Dr. Nelson, "Proposed reasons [for the increased incidence of pediatric kidney
stones] include sedentary lifestyle, obesity increase, and processed high-salt
diets."
When the kidneys function properly, they process blood as it flows into them,
removing waste and potential toxins, balancing key hormones and biochemicals,
and maintaining the proper level of acidity in the body -- creating urine as a
byproduct. Healthy kidneys cleanse and balance the blood, maintain blood
pressure, regulate fluids in the body, sustain the body's pH, and produce
hormones needed for bone and blood formation. But for the kidneys to work
correctly, they can't be overtaxed by poor diet and toxic exposure, and they
need a sufficient amount of water (not soda pop) to help in flushing out waste.
When the kidneys don't function optimally, sludge builds up and eventually it
can cause stones to form.
Sodium overload presents one of the worst dietary issues from the point of view
of kidney function, as Dr. Nelson points out. That's because salt increases the
amount of oxalate (a food byproduct) and calcium in the urine, and when oxalate
and calcium bind, they create a sludge that resides in the kidneys. Eventually,
calcium stones can form. These constitute about 75 percent of all stones. Other
types of stones, such as uric acid stones, also form from poor dietary
practices.
Kids take in sodium from myriad sources, more now than ever. They get sodium not
just from junk foods like chips and fries, but also from mainstay processed
foods such as canned soups and luncheon meats, and from popular sports drinks
like Gatorade, which contains between 450 and 800 milligrams of sodium per
liter, depending on the product. (Seriously, check the label.) The high sugar
content -- 56 grams per liter -- doesn't do the kidneys any good, either. (Note:
the salt issue, although important, isn't quite as simple as Dr. Nelson would
have you believe.)
There's also the fact that many children are chronically dehydrated (in spite of
the popularity of the problematic sports drinks), so they aren't supplying
enough water to the kidneys for the necessary flushing. When they do drink, if
they're not guzzling Gatorade, is dehydrating liquids such as caffeine-based
sodas.
Beyond sodium and chronic dehydration, there's the extraordinary burden placed
on the kidneys by dietary and chemical excesses. Too much meat, sugar and
processed food give the kidneys a workout. Protein and chemicals from
medications and toxic exposure can build up, slowing kidney function, increasing
acidity and raising blood pressure.
Of course, the same provisos that apply to children also apply to adults, who
doctors claim commonly get kidney stones at younger ages than in years past.
Studies confirm that diet and excess weight are to blame. One study found that
men who gained 35 pounds since early adulthood increased their risk of
developing stones by 40 percent, and women who gained that much weight increased
their risk by a whopping 80 percent! Although no pediatric studies have been
completed connecting weight gain to kidney stones, it makes sense that the same
conditions would apply in the case of children.
Although stones cause plenty of pain, pain is not the ultimate problem: it's the
fact that stones indicate the kidneys aren't working correctly. Kidneys that
aren't working properly cause high blood pressure and damage to other organs.
And stones in the kidney's cause inflammation to kidney tissue, which ultimately
leads to the destruction of that tissue and of the kidney itself. To avoid
kidney problems so early in life (and this applies to you):
* Make sure to stay hydrated with water. If drinking enough, the urine will be
pale yellow. (it will be more yellow with potent B vitamins)
* Eat a balanced diet heavy on vegetables and fruits. Try to eat completely
vegetarian at least a few days a week; avoid processed and fatty foods; cut back
on salt; and reduce toxic exposure. Note: don't overdo foods that contain large
amounts of oxalate, which in some cases can promote the development of kidney
stones. Eight foods have been identified as being most likely to raise urine
oxalate levels. They are rhubarb, spinach, strawberries, chocolate, wheat bran,
nuts, beets, and tea.
* And you might want to ask your pediatrician about trying an herbal formula
that breaks up kidney stones and sludge and flushes it out of the body. See
Below: This can be remarkably effective.
Comments:
Taking care of your kidneys
Paramount to good care of the kidneys is reducing the toxic load they have to
deal with, especially proteins and chemical contaminants which can build up in
the kidneys, slowing their function, increasing acidity and raising blood
pressure. So, consider lightening the diet--instead of eating meat every day,
try going vegetarian for a day or so a week. A vegetable/fruit-based diet allows
the body system to alkalinize via the kidneys, lowering blood pressure, and
contributing to a sense of well-being. Also, drinking enough water so that the
urine is a light color of yellow. A whole lot of water is not necessarily good
for the kidneys, and it is always better to drink small amounts of water
throughout the day, rather than gulping down a quart or two because you're
thirsty. This just creates kidney stress.
The regular use of a kidney cleansing and rebuilding formula is now mandatory
considering the stresses we put our kidneys under thanks to our “modern”
lifestyles. A good kidney formula/s will include most of the following
properties and ingredients.
What the formula needs to do
1. Anti-lithic (stone breaking)
2. Diuretic (water removing)
3. Antiseptic (infection killing)
4. Anti-nephrotoxic and anti-hepatotoxic
5. Soothing to urinary tract tissue
6. Anti-inflammatory
7. Stimulating to renal tissue
A note on stones
Different stones in the body have different chemical make-ups.
For example, gallstones are primarily formed from cholesterol, bile salts, and
proteins. The more protein, the harder the stones. Think of it like the protein
used to make fingernails. Incidentally, this protein primarily comes from the
lining of the gallbladder. In other words, although stones get their start in
the liver, they turn problematic in the gallbladder – which is why removing the
gallbladder gets rid of symptoms, but not necessarily the underlying problem,
which starts in the liver.
Pancreatic stones are formed from fatty acids, calcium, and proteins.
And kidney stones themselves vary significantly. There are four types.
* Calcium stones are composed of calcium that is chemically bound to oxalate
(calcium oxalate) or phosphate (calcium phosphate).
* Uric acid stones. If the acid level in the urine is high or too much acid is
excreted, the uric acid may not dissolve and uric acid stones may form.
Struvite or infection stones develop when a urinary tract infection alters the
chemical balance of the urine causing stones to form from ammonium, magnesium,
phosphate (aka struvite).
* Cysteine stones. Some people inherit a rare condition that results in large
amounts of Cystine in the urine, which causes the formation of Cystine stones
that are difficult to treat.
The important thing to understand is that although all of the above types of
stones have different chemical compositions, most of them can be dissolved by
the right combination of herbs in a single formula.
What to look for in a formula for Kidney Stones only:
NOTE: The chronic sufferer will have to change their formula around as it becomes less effective. Use the fewest herbs and supplements to get the job done. If that formula stops working add more suggested items in these lists.
For Immediate Kidney Stone Pain
Relief: In a 16 oz glass or
gelatin capsule: mix 5 drops wintergreen essential oil and 5 drops lemon
essential oil or 2 TBSP lemon juice and drink. You may take this up to once an
hour for one 24 hour period. You cannot consume that much wintergreen after that
as it can be toxic. The lemon juice often works by itself. Drink at least a
quart of distilled water every 2 hours. The more you drink the less it will hurt
and the faster it will move. If the pain becomes unbearable or you get worse;
call your doctor and go to the local ER. You need to make sure your Kidney stone
is passable before you try so hard to pass it!
(Most important if you have existing stones) Chanca piedra (Phyllanthus
niruri)
For a number of years now, I have recommended using chanca piedra before liver
detoxing to soften gallstones before trying to pass them during the detox.
Chanca piedra works equally well on gallstones, kidney stones, and kidney
sludge. In fact, the name chanca piedra, as it is known in Peru, comes from its
effect on kidney stones and gallstones. The literal translation is “stone
breaker.” It effectively softens both kidney stones and gallstones for easy
passage out of the body. It is also renowned for its diuretic qualities and has
been shown effective at helping relieve edema and urine retention. It also works
as an anti-inflammatory agent in the kidneys and as an antihepatotoxic in the
liver. That is to say, it counters the effects of toxins in the liver.
Hydrangea root (Hydrangea Arborescens)
The most common use for hydrangea is for the kidneys and bladder because of its
effective diuretic property which helps increase the flow of urine. This removes
impurities from the system and lessens the likelihood of infection along the
entire urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, bladder, prostate (in men) and
urethra. Hydrangea, like chanca piedra, is also considered an anti-lithic herb,
which prevents stones or gravel from forming in the kidneys and bladder. As an
anti-lithic herb, it can also assist the body in removing stones and gravel from
these organs. This was a primary use of hydrangea by Native Americans.
Like most diuretic herbs, hydrangea is an excellent choice for treating inflamed
or enlarged prostate glands. It is commonly combined with horsetail for this
purpose. Maintaining healthy urine flow keeps the prostate less likely to
constrict around the urethra, which prevents stagnant urine from causing more
infection. This can also reduce inflammation by eliminating impurities from the
prostate.
A scientific study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry in
2003 noted that hydrangea root extracts have greater antioxidant power in liver
tissue than milk thistle and turmeric combined. The findings of Japanese
researchers amplify observations of nineteenth-century American physicians who
used hydrangea primarily as a treatment for "kidney gravel," small stones in the
kidneys that could be passed with a minimum of pain after treatment with the
herb. Physicians of the time also used hydrangea as a treatment for chronic
chest pain caused by bronchitis. Hydrangea root powder has a greater diuretic
effect than other preparations of the herb , but it has less of an effect on
pain.
Gravel root (Eupatorium purpureum)
Like chanca piedra and hydrangea, gravel root also exhibits both diuretic and
anti-lithic properties. Used primarily for kidney stones or gravel (which
accounts for its name), it also helps with cystitis, dysuria, urethritis, and
pelvic inflammatory disease. It can also play a role in the systemic treatment
of rheumatism and gout as it encourages excretion of excess uric acid. And
finally, it tones the reproductive tract and is used to treat inflammation of
the prostate.
Marshmallow root (Althaea Officinalis)
Marshmallow's highest medicinal acclaim is as a demulcent. Internally it has a
soothing effect on inflamed and irritated tissues of the alimentary canal, and
urinary and respiratory organs. It aids in the passage of kidney stones and is
used in combination with other diuretic herbs for kidney treatments which assist
in the release of gravel and stones. It works very well for urinary problems.
Marshmallow has factors which combine with and eliminate toxins, helping the
body to cleanse. This makes marshmallow an excellent herb to add to other
formulas to help neutralize toxins that are the causative factors of arthritis.
Marshmallow is also very soothing to any sore or inflamed part(s) of the body.
As well as the urinary tract, this herb will soothe an irritated digestive tract
and help with diarrhea or dysentery.
Juniper berry (Juniperus communis)
Juniper Berries are used to treat infections, especially within the urinary
tract, bladder, kidneys, and prostate. Their antiseptic properties help remove
waste and acidic toxins from the body, stimulating a fighting action against
bacterial and yeast infections. Juniper Berries also help increase the flow of
digestive fluids, improving digestion and eliminating gas and stomach cramping.
As a diuretic, Juniper Berries eliminate excess water retention contributing to
weight loss. Juniper Berries' anti-inflammatory properties are ideal for
relieving pain and inflammation related to rheumatism and arthritis. In
addition, Juniper Berries are beneficial in reducing congestion, as well as
treating asthma and colds. Juniper Berries make an excellent antiseptic in
conditions such as cystitis. But the essential oil present in this herb is quite
stimulating to the kidney nephrons. Some texts warn that juniper oil may be a
kidney irritant at higher doses, but there is no real evidence that this is the
case, and the dosage in this formula is quite low. Nonetheless, people with
serious kidney disease probably shouldn't take juniper.
Contemporary herbalists primarily use juniper as a diuretic ("water pill")
component of herbal formulas designed to treat bladder infections . The volatile
oils of juniper reportedly increase the rate of kidney filtration, thereby
increasing urine flow and perhaps helping to "wash out" offending bacteria. The
volatile oils, particularly terpinen-4-ol, may cause an increase in urine
volume. According to some sources, juniper increases urine volume without a loss
of electrolytes such as potassium. It is recommended by the German Commission E
for kidney ailments.
Corn silk (Zea mays)
Corn silk is a soothing diuretic and works as an excellent remedy for urinary
conditions such as retained urine, burning urine, kidney stones, bladder
infections, gonorrhea, and as a lymphatic system cleanser. Corn Silk is used to
treat bladder infections, kidney stones, infections of the prostate gland, and
urinary infections.
Uva ursi (Arctosyaphylos uva ursi)
The chief constituent of Uva Ursi is a glycoside called arbutin. This is what is
responsible for its diuretic action. During its excretion arbutin produces an
antiseptic effect on the urinary mucous membrane and can therefore help
eliminate urinary tract infections. Tannic acid is also contained in the leaves.
This herb also helps to keep the pH balance of urine from being too acid. It
actually strengthens the lining of the urinary tract and helps to relieve any
inflammation in the system. It has a direct sedative effect on the bladder
walls. Allantoin, also found in Uva Ursi spurs the healing of wounds. For
chronic inflammation of the bladder or kidneys Uva Ursi has no equal. Two
studies report that urine from individuals given uva ursi is active against the
most commonly involved bacteria in bladder and urinary tract infection.
This study supports the results of a double blind study of 57 women with
recurrent cystitis. After one year, the placebo group had 20% incidence of
recurring cystitis, whereas the uva ursi group had no recurring infection.
In addition it has anti-lithic properties that help in dissolving crystals not
just in the kidneys, but throughout the body as well. It has, therefore, been
used for arthritis and other painful joint problems.
Parsley root (Petroselinum crispum)
An important diuretic, parsley root also helps clear uric acid from the urinary
tract and helps dissolve and expel gallstones and gravel – and prevent their
future formation. It also inhibits the secretion of histamine and is therefore
useful in treating hives and relieving other allergy symptoms. A decoction of
parsley root can help eliminate bloating and reduce weight by eliminating excess
water gain. Note: the German Commission E, an advisory panel on herbal
medicines, has approved parsley for use in the prevention and treatment of
kidney stones.
Carrot tops (Daucus carota)
Carrot tops are an under-appreciated source of relief for all sorts of urinary
tract problems and symptoms. The Amish swear by it, dedicating significant
acreage to carrots just for this reason. Carrot Top Tea can clear up skin
blemishes, flush the kidneys and bladder, and clean the blood of toxins.
Carrot tops are also helpful in clearing the kidneys and urinary tract (as well
as the prostate). They are also highly alkalizing to the blood, taking stress
off the kidneys.
Dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for centuries to treat liver, gall
bladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some countries, Dandelion is considered
a blood purifier and is used for ailments such as eczema and cancer. It has also
been used to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver
such as hepatitis.
Dandelion leaf is also a good natural source of potassium, and will replenish
any potassium that may be lost due to the diuretic action of the other herbs in
this formula.
Studies show beneficial effects of dandelion on reducing urinary tract gravel,
attributed to disinfectant action and possibly the presence of saponins.
Dandelion has also been used traditionally to treat respiratory disorders. Dr.
James Duke notes in his book, The Green Pharmacy, that numerous clinical trials
have demonstrated the efficacy of dandelion leaves and root for treating
pneumonia, bronchitis and upper respiratory infections. Dr. Duke recommends
drinking the juice that remains after the greens have been cooked. The German
Pharmacopoeia lists dandelion leaf and root for treating gastrointestinal
complaints stemming from bile deficiency, as well as to stimulate appetite and
diuresis. Dandelion was also used in folk medicine to ease painful joint and
bone conditions. The tea reduces water retention and is considered a traditional
blood purifier. The diuretic effect is also useful for reducing swelling.
Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
Horsetail has not been extensively studied in people, but professional
herbalists recognize that the herb has diuretic (promotes the excretion of
urine) properties that may be useful for the following health problems:
* Urinary tract infections
* Kidney stones
Orange Essential Oil:
Limonene and flavonoids found in orange peel seem to have anti-carcinogenic
properties. They can block the carcinogenesis by acting as a blocking agent.
Studies have shown that limonin and limonene can induce the enzyme activity of
glutathione S-transferase, which is an important detoxifying enzyme.
In addition, orange peel has antiseptic, bactericidal, and fungicidal
properties.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Peppermint has a relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive and urinary
system. It is useful for treating spasm problems in the urinary tract. It also
has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties which help rid the kidneys
of bacteria.
Three double-blind trials found that enteric-coated peppermint oil reduced the
pain associated with intestinal spasms, commonly experienced in IBS.
Goldenrod (Solidago virguarea)
Goldenrod is used as an aquaretic agent, meaning that it promotes the loss of
water from the body (as compared to a diuretic, which promotes the loss of both
water and electrolytes such as salt). It is used frequently in Europe to treat
urinary tract inflammation and to prevent or treat kidney stones. In fact,
goldenrod has received official recognition in Germany for its effectiveness in
getting rid of kidney stones, and it is commonly found in teas to help "flush
out" kidney stones and stop inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract.
Goldenrod is said to wash out bacteria and kidney stones by increasing the flow
of urine, and also, soothe inflamed tissues and calm muscle spasms in the
urinary tract. It isn't used as a cure in itself, but rather as an adjunct to
other, more definitive treatments such as (in the case of bladder infections)
antibiotics.
Several studies have found that goldenrod does in fact increase urine flow.
What to look for in a formula for Kidney Stones and Infection:
D-mannose: D-Mannose is a natural occurring simple sugar that appears
to be a safe, practical alternative for the treatment of urinary tract
infections (UTI’s). D-Mannose is absorbed eight times slower than glucose, and
when ingested, is not converted to glycogen or stored in the liver, but rather
goes directly to the blood stream from the upper GI tract. Hence, D-Mannose is
mostly filtered through the kidneys and routed to the bladder.
The bladder lining is comprised of polysaccharide molecules. Finger-like
projections on the cell surface of E. coli bacteria adhere to these molecules,
initiating an infection. In the presence of D-Mannose, E. coli preferentially
attach to D-Mannose molecules forming a complex which is expelled with the next
voiding.
D-Mannose probably works 80-90% of the time because the bacteria disabled by
Mannose causes 80-90% of UTI’s. Whereas antibiotic treatment radically changes
GI bacterial populations required for good health, potentially causing fungal or
gastrointestinal infections, D-Mannose removes “bad” bacteria by attachment and
voiding.
Cranberry Extract ( Preferably Cran-Max Brand):
What is Cran-Max®?™
Cran-Max® is made from 100% pure cranberries. It is produced from pure
cranberry fiber, infused with cranberry juice concentrate through a proprietary
process. This process enhances and intensifies the natural beneficial
constituents of the whole cranberry without the addition of sugars,
preservatives, flavorings, or coatings. Cran-Max®, therefore, contains all of
the nutritional factors present in whole cranberry without the sugar found in
cranberry juice beverages.
Researchers believe that the combination of fructose and substances called proanthocyanidins found in cranberries prevents bacteria (particularly E. coli) from sticking to the uroepithelial cells that line the bladder walls and infecting the surface of the urinary tract. "The cranberry juice phytochemicals bind to the bacteria, and then they're just excreted,"
Blueberry / Bilberry Extract: Works in the same way cranberry capsules do.
Silver Biotics: Ionic Colloidal Silver is one of the strongest
Antibiotics known to man and can be combined with any other antibacterial
regimen. Ionic Colloidal Silver can be taken daily and will not harm friendly
bacteria or cause antibiotic resistance. Silver Biotics action is physical not
microbial and microbes cannot become immune!
Who should use this formula and when
Since everyone accumulates sludge in their kidneys and livers, everyone is a
candidate for regular use of this formula. Even people who have had their
gallbladders removed will benefit. Regular softening and flushing of stones and
gravel will keep your kidneys, liver, and gallbladder functioning at optimum
levels and, more importantly, keep areas of those organs from choking to death
and becoming non-functional. The sooner you start in life the better, but
certainly the older you get, the more mandatory regular use becomes.
And as for anyone already suffering from painful kidney stones or gallstones,
this formula can be a godsend. Whereas medical doctors can offer only surgery or
expensive lithotripsy procedures (which are also not without risk), this formula
offers a safe, highly effective alternative – that can work with remarkable
speed. Painful kidney stones and gallstones can usually soften enough for easy
passage in as little as 2-8 days. And regular use of the formula can prevent any
recurrence.
If you need to do a painless 3 day gallbladder flush click here for directions:
You also need to follow an alkalizing diet found here:
How to use
Simple
Use 4-8 droppers in diluted juice three times a day until bottle is gone. With
capsules follow directions on the bottle.
Better
Take 4 ounces of this formula and mix with a quart of fresh squeezed apple juice
(not bottled) and a quart of water. Drink a pint each day over 4 days.
For most people, doing this program twice a year should be enough to keep the
kidneys functioning properly. An ideal time to do this program is shortly before
doing a
liver detox. Again, the same herbs that soften kidney stones for easy
passage will also soften gallbladder stones. Using this formula shortly before
doing the
liver detox will greatly reduce the likelihood of discomfort when doing the
liver detox.
For those who have a predilection to getting kidney stones or gallstones, this
program can be done once a month to minimize the chances of any future
occurrence.
If you have currently existing painful kidney or gallstones, you probably will
want to mix up two batches and drink it for 8 straight days.
Do not do more than once a month on a regular basis as the diuretic effect may
deplete the body of essential water soluble vitamins and minerals over time.
Note: If using in preparation for the
liver detox, make sure you use within 30 days of starting the detox so the
gallstones don't get a chance to reharden before flushing.
Warning: The diuretic effects of this formula may enhance the toxic
effects of certain medications, such as digoxin (used to treat congestive heart
failure), phenytoin (for seizures), anticoagulants, and others. For this reason,
people taking prescription medications should not use this formula without first
consulting a health care provider. Also, anyone with severe kidney problems
should not use this formula without first consulting their physician.
Search Kidney:
Search Gall Bladder:
Search Kidney Stones:
Search Alkalizing:
Search Acid:
Search Alkaline:
Search Liver:
