Q I heard that herbal medicine can dissolve gallstones. Is that really possible?
A Korean medicine treatment is not about completely dissolving gallstones, but rather excels at relieving pain and digestive discomfort and promoting smooth bile flow by supporting gallbladder function. Complete removal belongs to the realm of surgical treatment or drug dissolution therapy.
Detailed Answer
Even ursodeoxycholic acid (a conventional drug) only has a dissolving effect on some small cholesterol gallstones, and complete dissolution can take months to years. Choleretic herbal prescriptions help bile secretion and gallbladder contraction to improve the environment so stones do not progress further, and clinical reports show effects on reducing symptoms such as abdominal pain and indigestion.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
For small asymptomatic gallstones, an approach of supporting gallbladder function with Korean medicine treatment and monitoring progress is possible. For gallstones that require surgery, it is recommended to consult with the attending physician before supplementarily combining Korean medicine treatment.
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