Synopsis

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

Ox bile is sometimes used as a supplement for various digestive concerns, including gallstones. The rationale behind its use is based on its content of bile acids, which are similar to those produced by the human liver and stored in the gallbladder. Bile acids help emulsify dietary fats, aiding in their digestion and absorption. In cases where the body’s production or flow of bile is compromised—such as with gallstones or after gallbladder removal—ox bile is thought to compensate for this deficiency. However, the direct use of ox bile to treat or dissolve gallstones is not strongly supported by high-quality scientific evidence. The mainstay of non-surgical gallstone treatment in conventional medicine involves the use of specific bile acids, such as ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which can dissolve certain types of cholesterol gallstones over time. These are purified and standardized pharmaceutical preparations, not crude ox bile supplements. While it is theoretically possible that supplemental bile acids from ox bile could have a similar effect, there are no robust clinical trials demonstrating that orally ingested ox bile effectively treats gallstones in humans. Therefore, while the use of ox bile is based on a plausible mechanism and has some scientific rationale, the actual evidence base (randomized controlled trials, clinical studies) supporting its specific use for gallstone dissolution or treatment is weak and indirect. Most recommendations for ox bile supplementation focus on general digestive support rather than gallstone therapy. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting such supplements.

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