Evidence supporting the use of: Balsam pear
For the health condition: Kidney Stones

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Balsam pear (Momordica charantia), also known as bitter melon, has a history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia, for a variety of ailments including diabetes, digestive issues, and urinary tract conditions. Its use for kidney stones is primarily rooted in traditional practice rather than robust scientific investigation. Traditional healers have used decoctions or extracts of the fruit or leaves to purportedly help dissolve stones or alleviate discomfort associated with kidney stones. The rationale in folk medicine is often based on the plant’s diuretic properties, which may help increase urine flow and thus assist in flushing out small stones or preventing their formation.

However, scientific validation for Balsam pear’s efficacy in treating or preventing kidney stones is limited. There are a handful of animal studies and in vitro research suggesting mild diuretic effects and the presence of antioxidant compounds, but no well-designed clinical trials have directly demonstrated its effectiveness for kidney stones in humans. Most available research focuses on other properties such as hypoglycemic effects. Therefore, while its use is justified by tradition, the evidence supporting its utility for kidney stones is weak and largely anecdotal, meriting a low evidence rating.

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