Kidney stones: Doctor-approved evidence-backed remedies to get rid of this kidney issue

If you’ve ever had a kidney stone, you know it’s no joke—people say it’s right up there with childbirth when it comes to pain. Kidney stones are actually pretty common in the US, with millions dealing with them every year. In fact, about 1 in 10 Americans will have a stone at some point in their life (as per American Medical Association). They’re more likely if your diet’s heavy on salt, sugar, or animal protein—things most of us enjoy a little too often.

Recently, Dr Sudhanshu Rai took to Instagram to share few evidence-backed remedies for kidney stones. Sharing a list of 8 remedies, the doctor posted, "I write them because someone out there might be silently struggling and this could be the reminder they needed today. If it helped you, imagine who else it could reach if you shared it." Here are the 8 remedies:

Proper hydration is the most important natural remedy for kidney stones. Drinking enough water dilutes minerals and salts in urine, reducing the chance of crystal formation. It also increases urine flow, which helps flush out small stones before they grow larger. Drinking 2–3 liters of water daily is often recommended. Adding herbal teas or infused water can make it easier to stay consistent with hydration.

Lemon juice is rich in citric acid, which helps prevent kidney stone formation. Citric acid binds with calcium in urine, lowering the risk of calcium oxalate stones—the most common type in North America and Europe. Regularly drinking diluted lemon juice can make urine less favorable for crystal growth. Many people add fresh lemon to water as a simple, natural way to support kidney health while also enhancing hydration.

Potassium helps balance electrolytes and reduces calcium levels in urine, lowering the risk of stone formation. Potassium-rich foods—like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens—can improve mineral balance in the body. Adequate potassium intake also prevents high sodium levels from concentrating the urine, a common dietary issue in the US. By maintaining proper potassium levels, the body’s pH balance and kidney function are better regulated, creating an environment less prone to stone development.
The doctor recommends coconut water so that the potassium in it supports urinary tract relaxation.

Holy basil juice (Tulsi) is a traditional remedy valued for kidney health. It contains acetic acid and antioxidants that help dissolve stones and reduce pain during their passage. Regular intake supports uric acid balance, a factor in certain types of stones. While not as common in North American diets, holy basil supplements and juices are becoming more available in the US as natural kidney support remedies. It also strengthens overall urinary health naturally.

Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which may worsen kidney stone risk. Free radicals can damage kidney tissues, making the urinary tract more prone to crystal deposits. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, nuts, and green tea are widely available in the US. These not only support kidney function but also boost immunity and general health. Incorporating antioxidants into the diet helps minimize kidney inflammation and provides protection against recurring stone formation.

An alkaliser helps balance urine pH, reducing acidity that often leads to uric acid or cystine stones. Foods and drinks like lemon water, cucumber, and certain vegetables act as natural alkalizers. In the US, diets often lean acidic due to processed foods and high animal protein intake. Introducing alkaline-promoting foods helps neutralize excess acid, making urine less favorable for stone formation. A balanced urine pH also improves kidney filtration and overall urinary tract health.
"Apple cider vinegar can make urine less acidic, slowing certain stone growth," the doctor recommends.

Natural diuretics, such as dandelion tea, cucumber, and celery, increase urine production, helping flush out small stones and mineral buildup. Unlike chemical diuretics, they work gently and provide added nutritional benefits. In the US many people use herbal teas and water-rich fruits as natural diuretics to support kidney health. By encouraging frequent urination, these remedies reduce urinary stagnation, minimizing the risk of new stone formation while aiding the elimination of existing crystals.
The doctor recommends consuming nettle leaf tea and barley water.

The doctor recommends using wheatgrass as it includes magnesium and potassium to reduce crystal aggregation.

Maintaining mineral balance is key for preventing kidney stones. Too much calcium, oxalate, or uric acid in the urine can trigger stone formation. Conversely, low levels of protective minerals like magnesium or potassium increase risk. Diets often contain excess sodium, which disturbs this balance. By managing intake of calcium, magnesium, and potassium through whole foods, while reducing salt and processed foods, individuals can support healthy mineral balance and reduce stone recurrence.