Evidence supporting the use of: Squash
For the health condition: Kidney Stones

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Synopsis

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

Squash, particularly bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria), has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other folk medicine systems to support kidney health and as a remedy for kidney stones. The rationale for its use is largely based on its high water content, purported diuretic properties, and its role in promoting hydration, which is important for kidney stone prevention. Some traditional texts and practitioners suggest that consuming squash juice can help in flushing out small stones or preventing their formation by increasing urine output and diluting urinary salts.

However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of squash for treating or preventing kidney stones is limited. There are a few small-scale studies and animal experiments suggesting mild diuretic effects and antioxidant properties, but these do not directly demonstrate a stone-dissolving or preventative effect in humans. Most of the support for squash in this context comes from its use in traditional diets and anecdotal reports rather than robust clinical trials. Therefore, while squash is considered safe as part of a healthy diet and may contribute to overall hydration, its specific role in managing kidney stones remains weakly supported by scientific data.

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