Home Remedies to Relieving Gallbladder Pain Naturally

 

 

Home Remedies to Relieving Gallbladder Pain Naturally   

 

Gallbladder pain

 

The gallbladder is an organ that stores and releases bile into the digestive tract. Bile helps the digestive process by breaking down fat from food passed into your intestine.

The gallbladder also sends bile to your small intestine, a process that helps the bloodstream easily absorb vitamins and nutrients.

When any of these processes are interrupted, you could develop a number of issues and infections from gallbladder disease. The most common symptom from gallbladder disease is pain from inflammation. The pain typically occurs in the upper-right section of your abdomen.

 

Other symptoms you may experience include:

 

    Nausea

    Vomiting

    Fever

    Diarrhea

    Dark urine

 

Doctors often treat gallbladder pain with anti-inflammatory medication or pain medication. However, some of these medications have dangerous side effects and can increase the risk of dependency.

 

Natural approaches to pain relief have become an alternative to harmful drugs. Before pursuing natural treatments, consult with your doctor about your options and risks. Below are seven natural treatment options for your gallbladder pain.

 

1. Exercise

 

Regular physical activity can reduce cholesterol levels and help prevent gallstones from forming. Though small, gallstones can cause serious inflammation, pain, and infection. They can also grow to larger sizes.

Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in physical activity can reduce gallbladder pain and decrease the amount of gallbladder pain attacks.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week to prevent weight gain and improve your health.

Consult with your doctor before performing any strenuous activity. While exercise is helpful, some activities cause strain on your abdomen and may worsen your symptoms.

 

2. Dietary changes

 

Poor eating habits and consuming foods high in sugars and fats can contribute to gallbladder disease and gallstones. A diet with less fat and more fiber can prevent gallstones and improve your health.

 

Fried foods and other foods or condiments that contain fats — even salad dressings — are more difficult to break down and can cause pain. Increasing nutrient-rich foods in your diet, such as vegetables and fruits, can improve gallbladder function and prevent complications.

 

Some foods you should consider incorporating into your diet are:

 

    Dark, leafy greens

    Nuts

    Brown rice

    Whole grains

    Fish

    Olive oil

    Beans

    Citrus fruits

    Low-fat dairy

Lemon

Vegetable Juice

Pears

Castor Oil

 

3. Heated compress

 

Applying heat can be soothing and relieve pain. For gallbladder health, a heated compress can calm spasms and relieve pressure from bile buildup.

To relieve gallbladder pain, wet a towel with warm water and apply it to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also use a heating pad or hot water bottle for the same effect. Repeat this process until the pain goes away.

Just be careful not to place the hot surface directly on your skin, as you could burn yourself.

 

4. Peppermint tea

 

Peppermint contains menthol, a soothing compound that promotes pain relief. It can be used to ease stomach pain, improve digestion, and relieve nausea.

To ease gallbladder pain and improve gallbladder health, you can try drinking peppermint tea. Some think that drinking this tea regularly can reduce the amount of gallbladder pain attacks you may experience.

 

5. Apple cider vinegar

 

Raw apple cider vinegar contains anti-inflammatory properties that could be useful in relieving gallbladder pain.

To treat gallbladder pain, dissolve 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with warm water. Sip this tonic until the pain subsides. It’s important not to drink apple cider vinegar straight, as the acid can damage your teeth.

 

6. Turmeric

 

Turmeric is a spice used to treat many health conditions. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing benefits.

Turmeric stimulates the gallbladder to produce bile and helps the gallbladder empty itself. For gallbladder health, turmeric can stimulate bile formation to ease gallbladder emptying. Incorporating turmeric into your diet can also reduce inflammation and gallbladder pain.

Turmeric can be made into a tea to drink daily for pain relief. Curcumin is also available as an oral supplement. Before taking any dietary supplement, discuss proper dosages and risks with your doctor.

 

7. Magnesium

 

Magnesium can be a helpful component for gallbladder emptying. It can also ease gallbladder spasms and pain. Magnesium deficiency can increase the risk of gallstone formation.

To ease pain symptoms, mix a teaspoon of magnesium powder in warm water to drink every few hours.

Magnesium is also available as an oral supplement. Discuss appropriate dosages with your doctor.

 

Summary

Natural treatments can help to soothe gallbladder pain. But, traditional medical treatments shouldn’t be ignored. While home remedies can reduce symptoms from gallbladder disease and infection, they may not treat the underlying cause.

 

Before pursuing alternative treatment, discuss your options and expectations with your doctor.