Infusion of “rompepiedras” to expel kidney stones

To the hernia (herniaria glabra) It is popularly known as “quebrantapiedras” or “rompepiedras”, perhaps because in nature it makes its way easily on stony or sandy terrain. This name can also help us remember its main medicinal use, which is due to its powerful diuretic effect: facilitating the expulsion of stones or grit accumulated in the kidney.

As a diuretic plant, it is also useful against fluid retention, urinary infections or excess uric acid. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) approves its traditional use as a diuretic, to increase the flow of urine in case of mild urinary disorders. It also exerts an antispasmodic effect, which can relieve pain caused by colic or cystitis.

To prepare a herbal tea, For each glass of water, prepare 5 grams of hernia, horsetail, goldenrod, corn stigmas and fennel, in equal parts. Boil for two minutes, rest for ten, filter and drink up to four cups a day between meals. You can add honey or lemon to make it tastier and enhance its properties.

There is another “stonebreaker” plant

The plant scientifically named as Lepidium latifolium youIt is also known as “rompepiedras” or “stonebreaker” and its main indication is logically kidney stones, especially those composed mainly of calcium oxalate, which represent 80% of cases. It is also recommended for patients with gout (excess uric acid) and in cases of urinary tract infection, mild prostate disorders, vertigo problems and leishmaniasis, a disease that can be transmitted to humans by mosquitoes and affects the liver, spleen and mucous membranes. .

This plant grows along streams and is most effective when eaten fresh. Some commercial brands harvest it fresh, freeze it, micronize it and mix it with vegetable glycerin so that its properties are preserved for 5-7 years.

To prepare an infusion, add a few 40 g of dried plant or 15 g of fresh plant in a liter of freshly boiled water. Let cool and strain. If the taste is not very pleasant, it can be sweetened with stevia, honey or whole cane sugar.