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Chanca Piedra for Kidney Stones
Also known as Phyllanthus niruri, Chanca Piedra is a tropical plant that is widespread especially in the coastal regions. The herb belongs to the Phyllanthaceae in the genus Phyllanthus. Chanca Piedra grows to a height of between 50 and 70cm. The herb bears a smooth bark that is light green in color and has ascending herbaceous branches. Its many pale-green colors are flushed with red. The Chanca Piedra bears fruits that are small and contain seeds.
Over the years, Chanca Piedra has grown quite popular with populations around the world given its numerous medicinal uses. Studies indicate that the herb is ideal for the treatment of conditions such as vaginal and urethral discharge, digestive tract disorders and control of diabetes. Treatment of kidney stones is among the most popular uses of the herb.
Kidney Stones
Statistics show that quite a large percentage of the world population suffers from kidney stones and gallstone issues. There are several causes of kidney stones and the symptoms can vary from mild to life threatening. The condition is characterized by hard deposits in the kidneys that are passed out during urination. Although passing the stones can be quite painful, there is usually no permanent damage. If however left untreated for a long time, the results of kidney stones can be so severe that the patient might end up in an emergency room. Chanca Piedra has for the last several years been used as a natural remedy for kidney stones.
Although the herb possesses several medicinal benefits, one of the primary medicinal uses is in the treatment of kidney stones and gallstones. Its name, “Chanca Piedra” as it is called in Peru is derived from its action against kidney stones and gallstones. The name translates to stone breaker.
The herb helps in alleviating kidney stones in a number of ways. It not only aids in the treatment of the condition but also prevents it. When used, the herb helps by inhibiting the formation of the stones. This is essential in keeping the condition from worsening. The herb has also been studied to significantly limit the aggregation of crystals.
The herb is also popular for the fact that it reduces the symptoms of kidney stones. By modifying the composition and the structure of the stone, it not only makes it easy to expel them but also reduces the pain involved. It also relaxes the ureter and creates a calming effect. Another way the herb helps with kidney stones is minimizing the amount calcium, a substance that promotes crystallization of urine. It also gets rid of fragments that are left after a lithotripsy.
How to use Chanca Piedra for Kidney Stones
As a remedy for kidney stones, the herb is taken orally. How it is taken usually depends on the form in which it is available to the user. It can be taken either as a tea or as tincture. It can also be taken as a tablet or extract capsules. The action of the herb against kidney and gallstones can be observed as soon as 2 weeks after the initial week. To completely reverse the condition however, a user may need to use it for approximately 3 months. Traditional Ways to Prepare Jamaican Herbal Medicine at Home
For many years, herbal medicine has been used to help treat a wide range of illnesses and health conditions. Growing up in Jamaica, I watched many elders turn to herbs before pharmacy medicine, and even today on our farm we still prepare herbs the traditional way. Over the years, herbal remedies have continued to grow in popularity because many people believe they work well and are gentler on the body when used properly. One important thing I have learned is that the way you prepare an herb can make a big difference in how effective it is.
Infusions
Infusions are one of the easiest and most common ways to prepare herbs. This method is mostly used for leaves, flowers, and other soft parts of the plant. Both fresh and dried herbs can be used depending on what is available.
When using fresh herbs, wash them properly in clean water first. Place the herbs into a glass, cup, or stainless-steel pot and pour hot water over them until covered. Cover the container and allow the herbs to steep for several minutes until the water draws out the flavor and strength of the plant.
Some herbs are better prepared as a cold infusion, especially delicate herbs that may lose their strength with too much heat. In this case, the herbs are soaked in cool water for several hours before straining and drinking.
Decoctions
Decoctions are similar to infusions, but they are mainly used for harder parts of the plant such as roots, bark, and stems. On our farm, this is the method we often use when preparing strong roots and tree bark teas.
To make a decoction, place the fresh or dried plant material into a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat, cover the pot, and allow it to simmer for about 20 to 40 minutes. This slow cooking helps pull the strength and natural compounds from the tougher parts of the plant.
Many Jamaican roots tonics and bush teas are prepared this way because it gives a richer and stronger tea.
Tinctures
Tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts made using alcohol, vinegar, or glycerin. Alcohol is commonly used because it helps draw out important compounds from the herbs and also helps preserve the mixture for a longer time.
To prepare a tincture, herbs are soaked in the liquid for several weeks so the medicinal properties can slowly be extracted. After straining, the liquid is stored in bottles and used in small amounts.
While tinctures are not as common in traditional Jamaican homes as teas and decoctions, many herbalists now use them because they last longer and are easy to store.
Dry Preparations
Many herbs are also dried and ground into powder. Here on our farm we dry a number of herbs naturally before packaging them for teas and other herbal products.
Powdered herbs can be used in teas, capsules, or added to drinks and smoothies. To make a tea, simply add the powdered herb to hot water, stir well, and allow it to sit for a few minutes before drinking.
For capsules, the powdered herbs are placed into empty vegetable capsules in the required amounts. This is a simple way for people who may not enjoy the taste of certain herbs but still want the benefits.
No matter which method you use, it is always important to prepare herbs carefully and use clean, fresh ingredients whenever possible. Proper preparation has been passed down for generations, and it continues to play an important role in getting the best from herbal medicine.
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