A kidney stone is a hard mass that develops when crystals separate from the urine and build up on the inner surface of the kidney. Normally urine contains chemicals in it which prevents crystals from forming. It has been found that this mechanism doesn't work properly in individuals who form kidney stones. If these crystals remain small enough, they pass through the urinary tract without being noticed. At times, however, these stones grown in size, making them difficult if not impossible to pass. The first symptom of a kidney stone is extreme pain. The pain often begins suddenly when a stone enters the urinary tract causing irritation or blockage. Typically, a person feels a sharp cramping pain in the back and side in the area of the kidney or in the lower abdomen. Sometimes nausea and vomiting occur. Later, pain may spread to the groin. If the stone is large, this pain will continue as the muscles of the ureter squeeze the stone along to the bladder. This movement may cause some blood to appear in the urine, or there may be a need to urinate more often.

If fever or chills accompany any of these symptoms, an infection may be present, and it is important to contact your primary care physician immediately. Kidney stones occur more frequently in men with the first stone affected them between the ages of 20 and 40. If a person develops more than 1 stone, others are likely to develop. Personas with a family history of kidney stones, kidney disorders and metabolic disorders such as hyperprathyroidism are more likely to develop stones. Other causes can include:

• Gout,
• Excessive intake of vitamin D and
• Blockages of the urinary tract.

Certain diuretics and calcium-based antacids may increase the risk of forming kidney stones.

Recommendations for Wellness If you have kidney stones

A combination of 'Lobelia' (Muscle relaxing respiratory & lymphatic stimulant) and 'Wild Yam' (Useful in glandular balance formulas for women as well as occasional nausea during pregnancy)  in a glass of warm water can help relax the ureters, relieve pain and hasten the passing of stones.

'Marshmallow' (Healing, Soothing soft tissue repair herb. For stomach, bowel, lungs, urinary tract, joints) can help soothe inflamed tissues in the urinary tract.

'Vitamin A' (Vitamin A is an antioxidant that protects the body and maintains balance. Vitamin A helps control the activity of free radicals, and is beneficial for maintaining good vision and promoting health) promotes the healing of the urinary tract lining.

'Chinese Kidney Activator' (Eliminate Moisture/Qu Shi. Kidney support for too much water. Supports urinary and lymphatic systems)  can be used to sooth inflamed tissues, alleviate pain and provide a natural diuretic action, thus increasing the flow of urine through the urinary tract.

A simple yet important recommendation to help prevent kidney stones is to drink more water - enough water to produce at least 2 quarts of urine daily. Water dilutes the urine.

Drinking a glass of fresh lemon juice in a glass of warm water has been reported to help prevent stones from forming.

'Hydrangea' (Kidney & prostate power. It's solvent properties support the urinary system, especially the kidneys) is best known for its solvent properties. The solvent properties found in hydrangea help break-down and prevent further formation of stones and deposits in the urinary system.

'Aloe vera juice' (Used externally for many skin issues. Internally for digestive and eliminative concerns) can be useful in preventing stone formation and reducing the size of a stone during an attack.

'Zinc' (Trace mineral critical to health. Tissue growth, repair & maintenance) is also known to inhibit crystallization, which leads to stone formation.

NOTE: Always obtain medical advice from a qualified physician.