Evidence supporting the use of: Watermelon
For the health condition: Kidney Stones
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) has been traditionally used in various cultures as a home remedy for kidney stones. The rationale stems primarily from its high water content—over 90%—which is believed to help flush the kidneys and urinary tract, potentially reducing the concentration of stone-forming substances. Additionally, watermelon contains modest amounts of potassium and magnesium, minerals that may help prevent the formation of certain types of kidney stones, particularly calcium oxalate stones. Traditional herbal and folk medicine systems, especially in Asia and the Middle East, have included watermelon or its seeds in remedies aimed at promoting diuresis (increased urine production) and supporting kidney health.
However, scientific evidence specifically supporting watermelon’s efficacy in treating or preventing kidney stones is limited and weak. Few clinical studies have directly evaluated watermelon for this purpose. While increased fluid intake is universally recommended to help prevent kidney stones, and watermelon can contribute to overall hydration, it does not possess unique properties that directly dissolve or prevent the formation of stones beyond its water content. Some laboratory studies have noted antioxidant and mild diuretic effects, but these findings have not translated into robust clinical evidence.
In summary, the use of watermelon for kidney stones is justified by tradition and its general hydration benefits, but scientific validation remains minimal. Its role is supportive rather than curative, and it should not replace evidence-based medical interventions for kidney stones.
Other ingredients used for Kidney Stones
alfalfaapricot
arjun tree
asparagus
barley
black cumin
radish
celery
citric acid
cucumber
dandelion
melon
gokhru
gooseberry
heartwood
hibiscus
horsetail
Indian gum arabic tree
marshmallow
moringa
nettle
orange
potassium
pumpkin
quail egg
rehmannia glutinosa
vitamin B6
watercress
watermelon
mulberry
smilax
goldenrod
root tuber
juniper berries
cistanche
dioscorea
lotus seed
cornsilk
birch
couch grass
sheep's sorrel
hydrangea
cleavers
peach
amaranth
gravel root
soursop
Apple Cider Vinegar
Achyranthes
Aerva lanata
Asam gelugor
Adzuki bean
Alisma
Bermuda Grass
Bicarbonate
Blepharis
Bayleaf
Bean
Black Gram
Banyan
Borassus Palm
Baobab
Bergenia
Cucurbita
Cactus
Chinese Pond Turtle
Chanca Piedra
Coconut Water
Chinese Ligustrum berry
Chaenomeles lagenaria
Chestnut
Colocynth
Currant
eggplant
Euryale seed
Elephant's Head
Phosphate Salt
Prickly Pear Cactus
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Squash
Other health conditions supported by watermelon
Aging (prevention)Athletic and Exercise Aids
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Dehydration
Digestion (poor)
Edema
Fatigue
Fever
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Hypertension
Indigestion
Inflammation
Kidney Stones
Liver Detoxification
Nausea and Vomiting
PMS (general)
Skin Care (general)
Sunburn
Urinary Tract Infections
Products containing watermelon
Nature's Sunshine Urinary Maintenance
Nature's Sunshine Urinary System