{xtypo_dropcap}W{/xtypo_dropcap}hen bile in the gallbladder becomes oversaturated with cholesterol (or, rarely, calcium), the extra compounds may crystallize into gallstones. These may be as small as a sweet pea to as large as an egg. Probably half the people who have gallstones experience no symptoms. The problem occurs when during expulsion of a gallstone, it gets stuck in the bile duct. Symptoms then include severe pain in the upper right side of the abdomen that may radiate into the back and right shoulder, nausea, vomiting, bloating, or belching.

Approximately 20 million Americans have gallstones each year. Risk factors include diets high in fat, protein or sugar; high cholesterol; some food allergies; and obesity. The current favored treatment for gallstones is surgical removal of the gallbladder. Lithotripsy, another type of treatment, uses sonic shockwaves to break up the stones, while a third treatment calls for a long tube to be inserted into the gallbladder, and a strong solution administered which dissolves the stones.

If you prefer not to have surgery to remove gallstones, there are some herbal remedies worth a try. Dandelion root has for generations been used to treat both liver and gallbladder obstructions. It is also helpful in promoting bile production, which is a good thing--more bile means less chance of it being oversaturated by cholesterol. Milk thistle is an excellent herb to reduce the concentration of cholesterol already in the bile. Herbs that are known to be helpful with the digestive system are Cramp Bark, Fennel, and Ginger. These herbs tend to increase digestive enzymes which aid in the digestion of food.

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