Gurde ki Pathri (Kidney Stones): Water, Diet and Traditional Herbs

Gurde ki pathri (گردے کی پتھری), or kidney stones, are very common in Pakistan, especially in hot areas where people sweat a lot and do not drink enough water. A stone can cause some of the worst pain a person can feel. The best news is that simple habits greatly lower the chance of stones forming again.

Signs of a kidney stone

• Sharp pain in the back or side, which may move towards the lower stomach or groin
• Pain that comes in waves
• Burning while passing urine, or pink or red urine
• Nausea and vomiting

Emergency signs: go to hospital

Go to a doctor or hospital immediately if you have fever with pain, cannot pass urine, have severe pain that does not settle, or have only one kidney. A blocked, infected kidney is a medical emergency.

Why do stones form?

• Not drinking enough water, especially in summer
• Too much salt and processed food
• Too much meat and very little fruit and vegetables
• Family history and some medical conditions

Water: the number one protection

Drink enough water to pass light yellow urine through the day. For most adults this is about 2.5 to 3 litres, and more in the Pakistani summer or if you work in the heat. Spread it through the day.

Traditional remedies people use

1. Jau ka pani (جو کا پانی) / Barley water

Barley water is a well known desi drink for the kidneys and bladder. Boil a handful of barley in 1 litre of water for 20 minutes, strain and drink through the day. Barley (talbina) is also a Sunnah food.

2. Lemon water (لیموں پانی)

Fresh lemon in water adds citrate, which is commonly linked with lower stone formation. Keep it without too much sugar.

3. Gokhru (گوکھرو) / Khar-e-Khasak

Gokhru is a classic Unani herb for the urinary system and appears in many traditional kidney nuskhay. It is best used under the guidance of a hakeem.

4. Coconut water and watermelon in summer

Both help you stay hydrated in the heat.

Diet tips

• Cut down on salt, namak paray, chips and processed food
• Do not cut calcium from your diet. Normal milk and yogurt are fine
• Eat red meat in moderation
• If your doctor says your stones are oxalate type, limit very high oxalate foods such as spinach and lots of nuts

Common myths

• Myth: “Milk causes stones, so stop dairy.” Fact: normal calcium intake from food can actually help. Ask your doctor.
• Myth: “Soft drinks help push stones out.” Fact: sugary cola drinks are not recommended. Plain water is best.
• Myth: “Every stone passes on its own.” Fact: small stones often pass, but larger ones may need treatment.

Frequently asked questions

How much water should I drink to prevent stones?

Enough to keep your urine light yellow, usually about 2.5 to 3 litres a day for adults, and more in hot weather.

Is barley water good for kidneys?

Barley water is a traditional desi drink for the kidneys and bladder and helps you stay hydrated. It is not a substitute for medical care if you have a stone causing pain.

When is kidney stone pain an emergency?

Pain with fever, being unable to pass urine, or pain that does not settle needs urgent medical care.

اردو خلاصہ

گردے کی پتھری گرمی میں کم پانی پینے کی وجہ سے بہت عام ہے۔ روزانہ اتنا پانی پئیں کہ پیشاب ہلکا پیلا رہے۔ جو کا پانی، لیموں پانی اور گوکھرو روایتی طور پر استعمال ہوتے ہیں۔ نمک اور پراسیسڈ کھانے کم کریں۔ اگر درد کے ساتھ بخار ہو، پیشاب رک جائے یا درد برداشت سے باہر ہو تو فوراً ہسپتال جائیں۔

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Important: This guide shares traditional knowledge for general awareness. It is not medical advice and herbs are not a replacement for treatment. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medicine or have a health condition, please consult your doctor first.