Gall Bladder Problems
Gall bladder problems might include inflammation, infection, gall stones and obstruction. These are conditions that can slow or obstruct the flow of bile from the gall bladder to the liver. This can result in gall bladder disease if left unchecked. The gall bladder is a tiny organ located just under the liver. Its job is to store bile, which helps digest fats in the diet.
Symptoms of Gall Bladder Problems
Symptoms of gall bladder problems may include moderate to severe pain in the upper-right quadrant of the abdomen. The pain may spread into the chest and be mistaken for a heart attack. The pain may get worse when inhaling. Sometimes the pain may radiate to the right shoulder blade and into the back. Pain related to gallstones may occur sporadically. Inflammation causes pain that gradually gets worse and may hurt more when breathing deeply. Cancer produces a steady pain. Other symptoms may include nausea and vomiting, fever and chills, feeling fullness or bloating in the abdomen, belching, heartburn and gas, colic and indigestion, jaundice, weight loss and a recurring intolerance of fatty foods. Stools may be light-colored and fatty if a gallstone is obstructing the bile duct.
Causes of Gall Bladder Problems
The most common gall bladder disorder is gallstones. Common causes of gallstones include age, obesity, Cohn’s disease, rapid weight loss, a high-calorie diet, cirrhosis, hemolytic disorders, multiple pregnancies, oral contraceptives, estrogen therapies, injury, bacterial infection, heredity and some medications.
Cautions
Consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. If symptoms persist or become severe, see your medical practitioner. Surgery may be necessary in some cases like large gallstones.
Herbal Treatments
Herbal remedies for gallbladder problems should be taken under professional treatment. The following herbs may be useful.
Internal Applications
- Andrographis - reported to enhance bile production. Take in liquid extract or tablet form.
- Dandelion – this herb is very beneficial for the gall bladder. Combined with watercress, it is even better. Take as a supplement, extract or tea.
- Chicory – this herb is extremely good for gall bladder disorders. Take a decoction made from the flowers, seeds or roots of this plant and use three times per day. Chicory helps the secretion of bile and supports the liver and gall bladder.
- Boldo - take an infusion to stimulate bile production. Do not take Boldo if your gall bladder is obstructed.
- Lemon – take four tablespoons of lemon juice every morning on an empty stomach. This remedy helps the gall bladder return to normal function.
- Lavender - take an infusion of lavender to aid bile flow. Infuse 2-3 grams of dried flowers in 1 cup boiling water for 5 minutes, strain and drink 1 cup a day.
- Milk thistle – this herb supports the liver and gall bladder. It can also address some symptoms of gall bladder disorders like jaundice and inflammation. Milk thistle should not be used if gallstones are present.
- Alfalfa – this herb is a good remedy for the gall bladder. It is high in nutrients and supports the body. Alfalfa can be found in tablets, capsules or taken as tea or extract.
- Anise – the seeds of this herb can help remove gallstones and move them through the body.
- Peppermint – take capsules of peppermint to help cleanse the gall bladder or drink a cup of peppermint infused tea 3 times a day.
- Rosemary - taken as an infusion or liquid extract may increase the flow of bile.
- Turmeric – this herb can help reduce the risk of developing gallstones.
- Celandine – a tea made from celandine can help reduce cholesterol in the bile and prevent gallstones. It may be combined with turmeric, artichoke, and dandelion or milk thistle.
External Applications
- Castor – apply castor oil packs externally over the gall bladder area. Saturate a cloth with castor oil, apply to the affected area and cover it with plastic wrap. Put heating pads on top and leave it on for half an hour. Do this once a day for a month, it should help with any gall bladder problems you may have.