Renal stones
Kidney stones (Ashmari) are hard deposits in the urinary tract; Ayurveda treats with herbs & lifestyle.
About Renal stones
Introduction
Definition:
Renal stones, also known as kidney stones or nephrolithiasis, are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. These stones can vary in size and shape and may affect any part of the urinary tract, from the kidneys to the bladder.
Statistics:
Kidney stones are a common urological condition, affecting approximately 1 in 11 people in the United States. The prevalence has been rising, likely due to changes in diet and lifestyle. Men are more frequently affected than women, and the incidence peaks between ages 30 and 60.
Classification:
Kidney stones can be classified based on their composition:
- Calcium Stones: The most common type, primarily composed of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate.
- Struvite Stones: Often formed in response to an infection, these stones can grow quickly and become quite large.
- Uric Acid Stones: More common in people who do not drink enough fluids, have high-protein diets, or have gout.
- Cystine Stones: Rare and usually occur in people with a genetic disorder called cystinuria.
Ayurveda Approach
In Ayurveda, kidney stones are referred to as "Ashmari," which translates to "stone formation." According to Ayurvedic principles, the imbalance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) leads to the formation of kidney stones. Ayurvedic treatment focuses on balancing these doshas through dietary changes, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications.
Common Causes
Kidney stones form when the balance of water, salts, minerals, and other substances in the urine is disrupted. Key causes include:
- Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can concentrate minerals in the urine.
- Diet: High intake of protein, sodium, and sugar can increase the risk.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like hyperparathyroidism, gout, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
- Family History: Genetics can play a significant role.
- Certain Medications: Some drugs, such as diuretics and calcium-based antacids, can contribute to stone formation.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Home Remedies
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help flush out the urinary system.
- Lemon Juice and Olive Oil: A mixture of lemon juice and olive oil is believed to help pass stones.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: May help dissolve kidney stones.
- Dietary Changes: Reducing intake of salt, animal protein, and foods high in oxalate.
Therapies
Ayurvedic Therapy:
- Herbal Remedies: Herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, Pashanabheda, and Varuna are used to manage kidney stones.
- Diet: A diet that avoids foods high in oxalates and includes plenty of hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and coconut water.
- Lifestyle: Staying well-hydrated and avoiding foods that can contribute to stone formation.
Naturopathy:
- Hydrotherapy: Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas to flush the kidneys.
- Dietary Management: Emphasizing a plant-based diet with limited intake of oxalate-rich foods.
- Herbal Supplements: Natural diuretics like dandelion and horsetail can support kidney function.
Yoga:
- Asanas: Yoga poses like Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Dhanurasana (Bow Pose), and Uttanpadasana (Raised Leg Pose) can help improve kidney function and reduce the risk of stone formation.
- Pranayama: Breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Kapalbhati (Skull Shining Breath) to improve overall health and reduce stress.
- Meditation: Regular meditation to manage stress, which can contribute to the recurrence of kidney stones.
Common Symptoms
- Severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs
- Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin
- Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
- Pain during urination
- Pink, red, or brown urine
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Persistent need to urinate
- Fever and chills if an infection is present
Recommended Treatments
Ayurveda
Root‑cause, constitution‑based care guided by classical Ayurvedic principles, delivered safely by qualified doctors. At Atmabodh, Ayurveda is practised as a comprehensive health system that supports your body’s natural intelligence. We combine physician‑led assessment with personalised diet, lifestyle, and therapies, always gentle, realistic, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when needed. Why choose Ayurveda at Atmabodh? Doctor‑led: Assessment and plan curated by our Ayurvedic physicians. Personalised: Tailored to your prakriti (constitution) and current vikriti (imbalance). Integrative: Safe alongside conventional treatment; we collaborate where appropriate. Structured programs: From simple lifestyle resets to full Panchakarma, with clear milestones. Quality & safety: Hygienic therapy suites, standardised oils and decoctions, trained therapists. Ayurveda at Atmabodh is designed to support well‑being. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment from your medical doctor. Who can benefit? Metabolic & lifestyle support: Energy balance, healthy digestion, routine building. Root‑cause, constitution‑based care guided by classical Ayurvedic principles, delivered safely by qualified doctors. At Atmabodh, Ayurveda is practised as a comprehensive health system that supports your body’s natural intelligence. We combine physician‑led assessment with personalised diet, lifestyle, and therapies, always gentle, realistic, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when needed. Why choose Ayurveda at Atmabodh? Who can benefit? (system‑targeted bullets) Doctor‑led: Assessment and plan curated by our Ayurvedic physicians. Personalised: Tailored to your prakriti (constitution) and current vikriti (imbalance). Integrative: Safe alongside conventional treatment; we collaborate where appropriate. Structured programs: From simple lifestyle resets to full Panchakarma, with clear milestones. Quality & safety: Hygienic therapy suites, standardised oils and decoctions, trained therapists. Ayurveda at Atmabodh is designed to support well‑being. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment from your medical doctor. Metabolic & lifestyle support: Energy balance, healthy digestion, routine building. Musculoskeletal comfort: Joint stiffness, muscular tension, posture‑related strain. Stress & sleep: Nervous system down‑shift, rest quality, mental clarity. Skin & hair care: Scalp and skin nourishment routines. Women’s life stages: Menstrual comfort, perimenopause support, postnatal care. Respiratory ease: Seasonal sensitivity support and nasal hygiene. Timelines vary by individual and adherence; your doctor will set expectations transparently. What happens in an Ayurvedic consult? Case‑taking: Health history, digestion, sleep, stress, menstrual history (if applicable), medications. Examination: Pulse, tongue, skin, eyes, posture, and functional movement as relevant. Assessment: Constitutional mapping (prakriti) and current imbalance (vikriti). Plan: Diet guidance, daily routine (dinacharya), herbs/formulations if suitable, and therapy recommendations. Follow‑up: Review responses, titrate plan, and plan maintenance. Therapies you may receive Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga – warm medicated oil massage for nourishment and circulation. Pizhichil (Taila Dhara) – gentle pouring of warm oil with synchronized strokes. Swedana – steam/sudation post‑oleation for tissue softening and comfort. Head, neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara – steady stream over the forehead for deep relaxation. Shiroabhyanga – head, neck, and shoulder oiling. Karna Pūrana – warm oil ear therapy (as indicated). Localized therapeutic bastis Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti – warm medicated oil pooling on low back/neck/knee/chest. Pichu – medicated oil‑soaked pad application. Cleansing & nasal care Nasya – nasal administration of medicated oils/decoctions, preceded by gentle face/neck prep. Skin & myofascial care Udvartana – herbal powder rub for lymphatic stimulation and skin vitality. Kizhi (Potli) – warm herbal bolus compress (dry/wet) for targeted areas. Lepam – herbal paste packs for local application. Netra Tarpana – eye‑area ghee pooling (specialist‑led only). Therapies are chosen and adapted by the physician based on safety, goals, and season. Panchakarma – the classical cleansing sequence Performed only after adequate preparation and medical clearance; not everyone requires all five. Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – indicated in select kapha conditions. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enemas) – kashaya, anuvasana, or matra varieties per case. Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head‑neck pathway care. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; offered only where clinically justified and compliant. Phases: Purva‑karma (preparation/oleation), Pradhana‑karma (main procedure), Paschat‑karma (recovery, diet progression, lifestyle consolidation). Diet & lifestyle pillars (Dinacharya + Ahara) Meal rhythm: Regular timing; warm, freshly cooked, seasonal foods. Digestive care: Simple spices (as advised), mindful eating, adequate hydration. Sleep hygiene: Wind‑down routine, screen limits, consistent lights‑out. Movement: Gentle yoga/walking; avoid overexertion during intensive therapies. Self‑care: Oil application (abhyanga), nasal hygiene, tongue scraping—only as prescribed. Seasonal living (Ritucharya): Adjust routines, foods, and therapies to the climate. Safety & quality standards Physician review of contraindications: pregnancy, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections, recent surgery, severe anemia, active ulcers, etc. Informed consent; sterile/clean protocols; monitored vitals when needed. Herbal formulations are classical and doctor‑prescribed; we do not self‑dispense without assessment. We communicate with your treating physician upon request.
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Naturopathy
Drug‑sparing, lifestyle‑centered care that helps your body’s innate healing—gentle, practical, and doctor‑supervised. Naturopathy at Atmabodh focuses on restoring balance through non‑invasive methods: therapeutic diet, water and heat applications, mud therapy, movement, rest, and routine. Plans are personalised to your constitution, goals, and current health status, and coordinated with your medical care when required. Naturopathy supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illnesses. Why choose Naturopathy at Atmabodh? Doctor‑informed, therapist‑delivered protocols with clear goals and safety checks. Personalised sequencing of diet, hydrotherapy, mud, rest, and gentle activity. Integrative options with Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Acupuncture as needed. Measured & gentle—we prioritise comfort, pacing, and sustainable habits. Clear take‑home guidance so your results continue beyond the center. Who can benefit? Digestive balance: bloating, sluggish bowels, acidity tendency (non‑acute). Metabolic support: sustainable weight management habits and energy stability. Stress & sleep: overdrive, poor sleep quality, fatigue. Skin comfort: dryness/irritation support with routine, hydration, and diet simplicity. Musculoskeletal ease: stiffness, posture‑related aches (alongside physio/yoga as indicated). Cardio‑metabolic lifestyle care: BP/sugar rhythm support (doctor‑coordinated). Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause routines (timing‑aware). Suitability is individual; certain conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion/sleep/stress, appetite/bowels, work routine, medical history and labs. Assessment: hydration, temperature tolerance, skin and tissue feel, posture/movement basics. Plan design: diet framework, hydro/mud applications, rest schedule, gentle movement, breathwork. Education: why each element matters, pacing, and what to expect. Follow‑ups: refine frequency/intensity based on response. Therapies you may receive Hydrotherapy (water & temperature applications) Sitz bath (cool/warm/contrast) for pelvic/abdominal circulation. Spinal bath / spinal spray to soothe back and nervous system. Foot/arm baths for local circulation and calming. Jet/whirlpool (as available) for myofascial relaxation. Fomentation (hot packs/steam) and contrast applications for tissue ease. Packs & compresses Abdominal/chest/throat packs (warm or cool) for comfort and rhythm. Wet sheet/partial wraps for systemic calming (used selectively). Mud therapy Local mud packs (abdomen/eyes/joints) to cool, soothe, and draw heat. Full/partial mud application (as indicated) followed by gentle wash. Dietary & routine care Sattvik diet templates, hydration rhythms, meal timing, mindful eating. Rest & sleep hygiene, sunlight exposure (heliotherapy as suited). Movement & mind‑body Yoga Therapy (gentle mobility, breathwork), walking, relaxation practices. All therapies are customised to comfort, season, and safety. Not every modality suits every person. Daily flow (typical) Morning check‑in → vitals & plan review. Light movement/breath‑led warm‑up. Scheduled hydro/mud applications. Simple, warm meals at fixed times. Afternoon rest; short walk; relaxation. Early, light dinner; evening wind‑down. Diet & lifestyle pillars Regular meals: warm, fresh, minimally processed foods. Hydration: warm water/herbal infusions; avoid extremes. Gentle movement daily; avoid overexertion during intensive days. Screen & stimulant limits in the evening. Sunlight & fresh air exposure as suited. Safety & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy (certain applications), uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections/fever, severe anemia, recent surgery, active ulcers, frailty, significant cardiac/renal/hepatic disease. Temperature extremes and long fasting are not used without medical clearance. Medications are not changed by therapists; coordinate with your doctor. Hygiene, consent, and comfort checks are standard; vitals monitored when indicated. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion and steadier appetite cues. Improved sleep onset and morning freshness. Reduced soft‑tissue tension and easier movement. Calmer mood and better stress tolerance. A practical routine you can continue at home. Timelines vary. Many guests observe change within 3–7 days when plans are followed.
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Sattvik Diet Treatment
Calm, nourishing, and digestible food patterns that support clarity, steady energy, and gentle healing are designed by doctors and nutrition leads at Atmabodh. Sattvik (sāttvika) nutrition emphasises fresh, seasonal, minimally processed vegetarian foods prepared with care. We personalise this framework to your constitution (prakriti), current imbalance (vikriti), schedule, and cultural preferences. So it’s realistic, enjoyable, and sustainable. The Sattvik Diet Treatment at Atmabodh supports lifestyle change and well‑being. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illness management. Why choose Sattvik Diet at Atmabodh? Doctor‑supervised & personalised plans aligned to digestion (agni), appetite rhythm, and goals. Gentle on the gut: warm, easy‑to‑digest meals that reduce heaviness and bloating. Steady energy & mood via balanced plates and mindful meal timing. Simple, practical recipes using local, seasonal ingredients. Integrative support with Yoga Therapy, breathwork, and Ayurvedic therapies when indicated. Who can benefit? Digestive system: acidity, heaviness, irregular bowels, post‑illness appetite reset. Metabolic support: sustainable weight management, cravings control, steady glucose. Cardio‑metabolic: blood pressure friendly rhythms (low‑sodium, potassium rich, minimally processed). Nervous system: anxiety, overdrive, poor sleep—focus on calming, routine‑building meals. Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause support (warmth, mineral‑rich foods). Skin & hair: hydration, micronutrients, and oils that support skin barrier. Suitability and pacing are individual; see Safety for medical considerations. Core Sattvik principles Fresh, warm, light‑to‑moderate meals; avoid very cold/icy foods. Regular meal rhythm: 3 structured meals; optional light snack if truly hungry. Mindful spice: cumin, coriander, fennel, turmeric, ginger, black pepper in moderation. Fats: small amounts of ghee or cold‑pressed oils (sesame/groundnut/mustard/coconut as suited). Proteins: mung/masoor/toor dal, kala chana/rajma (well soaked & cooked), paneer/curd (if tolerated), millets. Grains: hand‑polished rice, whole wheat/roti, millets (little/barnyard/foxtail), poha, daliya. Vegetables: mostly seasonal, cooked; raw salads only if digestion tolerates well. Fruits: seasonal, ripe, eaten alone or away from heavy meals. Fluids: warm water, herbal infusions (jeera/ajwain/fennel), thin buttermilk (spiced), coconut water (as suited). Preferably avoid: ultra‑processed foods, excessive chilli/garlic, onion (traditional sattvik avoidance, optional), alcohol, tobacco, energy drinks, refined sugar excess. What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion, appetite, bowel rhythm, sleep, energy, stress, labs/diagnoses, medicines. Assessment: constitution & imbalance mapping; food tolerances; kitchen constraints. Education: portion cues, cooking methods, meal timing, mindful eating. Follow‑ups: adjust for symptoms, cravings, schedule, and lab‑guided goals. Sample one‑day Sattvik plan Morning (on waking): warm water; 4–5 soaked almonds or raisins. Breakfast: vegetable moong chilla with mint chutney orpoha with peas & peanuts; herbal tea. Mid‑morning (optional): seasonal fruit (papaya/guava/apple) or thin spiced buttermilk. Lunch: khichdi (moong + rice/millet) with ghee; lightly spiced veg (lauki/tori/tinda); cucumber‑mint raita. Evening: jeera‑fennel infusion; 1 small handful trail mix (roasted chana + seeds) if hungry. Dinner (lighter than lunch): mixed veg stew with millets/soft rotis; paneer/tofu bhurji if extra protein needed. Pre‑bed: golden milk with pinch of nutmeg (only if suited) or warm water. Portion cue: ½ plate vegetables, ¼ grains/millet, ¼ protein + 1–2 tsp ghee/oil. Therapeutic tracks (choose with your clinician) Weight & cravings reset: higher‑protein dals, millet rotation, fixed snack windows, fibre‑rich veg. Gut calm & bloat care: simple khichdi days, low gas‑forming veg, asafoetida/ginger, slow eating. Sugar‑steady plan: pair carbs with protein/fat, low‑GI millets, portioned fruit, early dinners. BP & heart‑ease: low sodium, potassium‑rich veg, nuts/seeds measured, calm evening routine. Sleep & stress: warm evening meals, magnesium‑rich foods (seeds/greens), caffeine limits, breathwork. Women’s cycles: iron‑/calcium‑supportive foods, warming spices, meal timing to energy. Kitchen & cooking methods Soak legumes/grains; cook till soft; skim excess foam for easier digestion. Prefer steaming, stewing, pressure cooking, sautéing over deep‑frying. Temper spices lightly; avoid burning masala. Use rock salt; add lemon/fermented options for flavour without excess salt. Store leftovers safely; prefer fresh. If needed, refrigerate and reheat once only. Mindful eating habits Sit, slow down, and chew thoroughly. Eat until comfortably satisfied (not stuffed). Keep main meals device‑free; step away for 10–15 mindful breaths if stressed. Maintain 12–13 hours gentle overnight fasting window unless medically contraindicated. Safety & medical considerations Diabetes/thyroid/BP/cardiac: plans coordinated with your physician; no abrupt carb restriction. Pregnancy/lactation: higher‑calorie, micronutrient‑dense variants; avoid herbs not advised. Kidney/liver conditions: protein, potassium, and fluid tailored by doctor. Lactose/gluten intolerance: curd/paneer/wheat substitutes (plant milks, millets, rice, lentils). Eating disorders: this program is not a replacement for specialised care.
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Yoga Therapy
Gentle, evidence‑informed practices tailored to your body, breath, and life. Yoga Therapy at Atmabodh blends classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic insights. Each session is personalised focusing on breath, mindful movement, and relaxation to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore ease. Why choose Yoga Therapy? Personalised: One‑to‑one care plans based on your goals, abilities, and health history. Whole‑person approach: Works on body, breath, mind, emotions, and daily routines. Safe & gradual: Gentle progressions with options for pain, fatigue, or limited mobility. Integrative: Complements medical treatment and physiotherapy; we coordinate when needed. Practical: Short home practices you can realistically maintain. Yoga Therapy supports your healing journey but does not replace medical care. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Who can benefit? Musculoskeletal: Back/neck pain, knee/shoulder issues, postural strain, arthritis. Stress & sleep: Anxiety, burnout, insomnia, overwhelm. Respiratory: Asthma, breathlessness, long‑COVID recovery (post‑medical clearance). Women’s health: Menstrual discomfort, perimenopause symptoms, prenatal/postnatal support. Digestive & metabolic: Indigestion, IBS, lifestyle support for diabetes and hypertension. Neurological & nervous system: Tension headaches, migraine, high reactivity/sensitivity. What happens in a session? Brief check‑in: Current symptoms, energy, mood, medications, red flags. Breath‑led movement: Gentle, pain‑free ranges to mobilise joints and release tension. Stability work: Core and postural support using slow, mindful strengthening. Nervous system down‑shift: Breathwork, guided relaxation, or Yoga Nidra. Mindfulness: Simple focus practices to build present‑moment awareness. Home plan: 10–20 minute routine with clear steps (video/handout provided). Typical session length: 60 minutes (first visit 75–90 minutes for assessment). How it works (in simple steps) Initial assessment – health history, movement screen, breathing patterns, goals. Personalised plan – curated postures, breath ratios, relaxation, daily habits.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What are kidney stones and how do they form?
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys due to imbalanced metabolism, dehydration, or dosha imbalance in Ayurveda.
Q: What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
Common symptoms include severe flank pain, blood in urine, painful urination, nausea, vomiting, and frequent urination.
Q: How does Ayurveda explain kidney stones?
In Ayurveda, kidney stones are called Ashmari, caused by imbalance in Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas leading to crystallization and stone formation.
Q: What Ayurvedic remedies help dissolve kidney stones?
Herbs like Gokshura, Punarnava, Varuna, and Pashanabheda, along with lifestyle and diet changes, are commonly used.
Q: Can Ayurveda prevent recurrence of kidney stones?
Yes, Ayurveda emphasizes detoxification, proper hydration, balanced diet, and herbal support to prevent recurrence.
Q: How is Ayurvedic treatment different from modern treatment?
While modern medicine often focuses on surgery or symptomatic relief, Ayurveda aims at root-cause correction, natural stone expulsion, and prevention.
Q: What dietary advice does Ayurveda suggest for kidney stones?
Avoid excess salt, red meat, alcohol, and processed foods. Include plenty of water, barley water, coconut water, and fresh fruits.
Q: Can Ayurveda treat all types of kidney stones?
Ayurveda can help manage most types of stones (calcium, uric acid, struvite, cystine) by supporting natural expulsion and preventing regrowth, depending on size and severity.