Most of us rarely stop to think about our kidneys—even though these two small, bean-shaped organs perform an enormous amount of work behind the scenes. They filter the blood, remove waste, balance electrolytes, regulate fluid levels, and even help control blood pressure. But when kidney stones form, these normally quiet organs can suddenly cause intense, unforgettable pain and demand immediate attention.

Kidney stones develop when minerals and salts—such as calcium, oxalate, or uric acid—accumulate and crystallize because the urine is too concentrated or lacks the natural compounds that prevent crystals from clumping together. When this happens, stones can grow from the size of a grain of sugar to something surprisingly large and difficult to pass. Regardless of size, the discomfort they cause is often described as one of the most severe pains a person can experience.

If you’re reading this, you may be searching for natural ways to help dissolve kidney stones, reduce pain, or prevent new stones from forming. While medical care is essential for diagnosing and treating serious cases, many people also explore natural home remedies to support hydration, ease discomfort, and encourage the body to pass stones more easily.

Below is a detailed guide to the warning signs of kidney stones and 21 natural home remedies commonly used for support and symptom relief.

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Warning Signs of Kidney Stones

According to the NHS UK, common symptoms of kidney stones may include:

• Severe, sharp pain in the back or side

• Chills or shivering

• Frequent urge to urinate

• Burning or pain during urination

• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

• Blood in the urine

• Difficulty sitting still due to intense pain

• Nausea or vomiting

Severe flank or back pain should never be ignored. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment. Doctors may prescribe medications to ease symptoms or help relax the urinary tract. In some cases, medical procedures may be needed to remove large stones.

Alongside conventional treatment, many people turn to natural remedies for additional comfort and support.

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21 Home Remedies for Kidney Stones

These natural approaches may help support kidney and urinary health. Always stay hydrated and talk with a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or fail to improve.

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1. Lemon Juice & Olive Oil

This classic combination is one of the most popular natural remedies for kidney stones.

• Lemon juice contains citric acid, which may help prevent crystal buildup.

• Olive oil may help lubricate the urinary tract.

How to use:
Mix 4 tbsp olive oil with ½ cup fresh lemon juice. Drink, then follow with water. Repeat daily as needed.

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2. Ride a Rollercoaster

It sounds unusual, but research found that the shaking motion of certain rollercoasters—especially Disney World’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad—helped dislodge small stones in a 3D kidney model. Riders seated in the back of the train had the best results.

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3. Increase Sexual Activity

A study from the University of Ankara found that frequent sexual activity helped participants pass kidney stones more successfully than those taking tamsulosin, a commonly prescribed medication. Engaging in intimacy several times a week may stimulate the ureter and encourage natural stone movement.

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4. Boost Magnesium Intake

Magnesium is essential for kidney health and helps balance minerals in the body. Low magnesium levels may contribute to stone formation.

Foods high in magnesium include:

• Pumpkin seeds

• Almonds and cashews

• Leafy greens

• Kelp

• Brazil nuts

• Tofu and soy products

A diet rich in magnesium may support long-term kidney wellness.

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5. Gravel Root Tea

Used in traditional Native American herbal medicine, gravel root has a reputation for supporting kidney function and promoting urinary flow.

Preparation:
Simmer 1 tsp gravel root for 10 minutes, cool slightly, sweeten if desired, and drink up to 3 times daily.

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6. Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera gel is known for soothing tissues and supporting hydration. When blended into juice, it may help promote urinary comfort.

Try blending aloe gel with grapefruit juice and a touch of honey for a refreshing, kidney-friendly drink.

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7. Uva Ursi (Bearberry)

This herb has been used for centuries to support urinary health.

How to use:
Simmer 1 tbsp dried leaves in 2 cups water until the volume is reduced by half. Strain and drink twice per day.

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8. Horsetail Tea

Horsetail is a natural diuretic and may help flush the urinary tract.

Steep dried horsetail with dandelion root, sweeten if desired, and drink twice daily.

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9. Dandelion Root

Dandelion root supports natural detoxification and urine flow.

Steep 2 tsp dried root in boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink throughout the day for best results.

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10. Celery Seeds

Celery seeds act as a kidney tonic and may help flush impurities.

Steep 1 tbsp seeds in 2 cups hot water. Allow to cool, strain, and drink once a day, up to 3 times a week.

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11. Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are rich in fiber and antioxidants. Traditionally, the water left after cooking the beans is used to support kidney cleansing.

Boil beans for several hours, strain the liquid, let it cool for 8 hours, strain again, and drink every 2 hours throughout the day.

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12. Nettle Leaf Tea

Nettle promotes steady urine flow and reduces inflammation.

Steep 2 tbsp dried nettle leaves for 10–15 minutes and drink 2–3 times daily.

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13. Hydrangea Root

Hydrangea root’s natural cleansing properties make it a common herbal choice for urinary support.

Steep 2–4 tsp dried root in hot water for 10–15 minutes; drink up to 3 times daily.

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14. Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate’s antioxidants and astringent properties support urinary health. However, moderation is key, as excessive vitamin C may increase stone risk in some individuals.

Drink 8 oz fresh, organic pomegranate juice daily.

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15. Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV contains acetic acid, which may help soften stones and promote natural detoxification.

Mix 2 tbsp ACV with water and drink once or twice weekly.

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16. Basil Tea

Basil has been used traditionally to ease urinary discomfort and support fluid balance.

Steep 5–6 basil leaves in boiling water, sweeten if desired, and drink daily for several months.

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17. Wheatgrass Juice

Wheatgrass is nutrient-dense and supports kidney detoxification.

Mix fresh wheatgrass juice with lemon and basil juice. Drink 2–3 times per day.

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18. Marshmallow Root Tea

Marshmallow root is soothing and diuretic, helping reduce irritation in the urinary tract.

Steep 1 tbsp root for 10–15 minutes and drink 2–4 cups daily.

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19. Corn Silk

Corn silk is a traditional Native American remedy used to reduce urinary irritation and promote steady urine flow.

Steep 1 tbsp corn silk in 2 cups boiling water for 5–10 minutes; drink 2–4 cups daily.

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20. Goldenrod

Goldenrod is commonly used in herbal medicine to support kidney and bladder health.

Steep 1 tbsp dried goldenrod for 20 minutes and drink warm, 3 times a day.

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21. Watermelon

Watermelon is rich in water, minerals, and potassium—all important for kidney function. Its high water content supports natural flushing of the urinary system.

Eat small cubes throughout the day and be sure to drink water regularly.

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Final Thoughts

These home remedies are simple, accessible, and inexpensive—many coming straight from your grocery store or pantry. While natural approaches may provide comfort and support, they are not a replacement for proper medical care. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, fever, vomiting, or difficulty passing urine. Kidney stones can be serious, and early evaluation can prevent complications.