Picture
​By the Whole Dog

The most common reasons pets develop kidney stones are because of an inappropriate diet. Kidney stones are not actually stones but mineral deposits that accumulate over time within the kidney, causing discomfort and difficulty urinating. Pet owners can treat kidney stones in a number of ways, beginning with improving their pet's diet.

Herbal Remedies
Many herbs can be used to treat or alleviate the pain of kidney stones in pets. The marshmallow root has lubricating and microbial properties that protects and soothes inflammation in the urinary tract. Dandelion is a diuretic herb and plays a role in eliminating stones and bacteria.

Supplements
Supplements to treat pet kidney stones include fish oil, Vitamin B-complex and Vitamin C. They prevent stone formation and are essential to maintaining a healthy urinary tract. The supplements can be mixed in with pet food to make it more palatable.

100% herbal formula that contains the following ingredients in therapeutic dosage: Burdock, Cleavers, and Dandelion.
  • Cordyceps mycelium (Cordyceps sinensis)**:  Considered a "medicinal mushroom" (or "ascocarp"), this potent ingredient originated in Tibet and is used as a tonic for energy, vigor, normal immune function as well as normal kidney and liver function. 
  • It is said to help support normal metabolic processes and all body systems. As well as having antioxidant properties, it also contains amino acids, some B vitamins, minerals, sterols and enzymes.
  • Rehmannia root (Rehmannia glutinosa)**:  This steamed root is a vital herb used widely in the traditional Chinese herbal repertory and contains vitamins C, A and some B vitamins. 
Dong Quai root (Angelica sinesis)**:

 An herb of Eastern Asia, this root is used widely in China for health and as a food. One of its uses is to help carry oxygen to tissues and support normal blood flow. Considered a daily tonic, it has been studied in conjunction with using Astragalus for the kidneys. [Its use to help balance normal hormone levels in the body has led to a misconception that it contains estrogens].
​It is best known for its "tonic" properties to fortify the blood, increase vitality and support capillary integrity. Called Dihuang, this herb is used to "replenish" the kidneys, support normal urination and build the body's normal energy levels following illness.
  • Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceous)*:  One of the best known "adaptogens", Astragalus is a replenishing herb for normal recovery from illness. It protects against free radicals and is widely used for immune health. Studies using Astragalus in combination with Dong Quai root show that these herbs may have an effect on the kidneys to normalize gene expression and help maintain normal, stabilized kidney function.
  • Burdock (Arctium lappa) is widely known as a systemic cleanser and blood purifier. It’s also well known for its ability to maintain balance in body fluid levels and can help the kidneys maintain their natural action of flushing out toxins. Burdock has also shown positive results in helping to maintain blood sugar levels within the normal range. (Swanston-Flatt SK, Day C, Flatt PR, et al. Glycaemic effects of traditional European plant treatments for diabetes. Studies in normal and streptozotocin diabetic mice. Diabetes Res. 1989; 413:6973. )
  • Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, D, and C, as well as various B Vitamins, iron, lecithin, silicon, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and manganese. It helps naturally promote a healthy appetite and may also support the maintenance of blood sugar levels within the normal range due to its positive effects on fluid balance. (Rcz-Kotilla, E., G. Rcz, A. Solomon. 1974. The action of Taraxacum officinale extracts on the body weight and diuresis of laboratory animals. Planta Med 26(3):212217.)
  • Cleavers (Galium aperine) is an herb that has been used in folk medicine for many centuries as a cleansing tonic, lymphatic cleanser and blood purifier. Regular use helps support all mechanisms of the urinary system.

Herbs for bladder:

  • Berberis vulg (3X) is a widely used homeopathic remedy and is well known for its positive effect on the bladder and urinary tract. This remedy also helps support healthy immune system functioning. (Li SY, Ling LH, Teh BS, et al. “Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties of the bis- benzylisoquinolines: in vitro comparisons of tetrandrine and berbamine.” Int J Immunopharmacol 1989; 11(4):395-401.)
  • Cantharis (6C) is often recommended for its ability to maintain a healthy flow of urine and soothe the bladder.
  • Staphysagris (6C) is a proven natural remedy that is also recommended for urogenital health and as a well-known prostate tonic.

​
Articles:

http://www.natural-homeremedies.com/blog/home-remedies-for-kidney-stones-2/

http://www.schnauzers-rule.com/bladder-stones-dogs.html

​Read in detail and in depth about stones...

Stone Breaker

Picture
Click image