Salivary gland stones, caused by a buildup of calcium or minerals in the salivary glands or ducts can be mildly to severely uncomfortable and can cause inflammation, swelling and infection. Natural remedies for salivary gland stones focus on dissolving the stones as well as reducing pain and infection. Some of these remedies (like apple cider vinegar and lemon juice) you may already have in your kitchen cabinet! All remedies are relatively inexpensive, readily available and much cheaper than surgery!

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Salivary Stones

• Internally - Apple cider vinegar is a simple and inexpensive tonic for a variety of ills. It helps to alkalize the body. Apple cider vinegar has also helped many with calcium deposits. To use it internally, use 1 Tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a tall glass of water sipped through the day.
• Externally - Apple cider vinegar can be used on the skin as a poultice. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water on a cloth and hold on the face nearest the site of the salivary stones for 20 minutes once or twice a day. It is best to use raw and organic apple cider vinegar.

Lemon for Salivary Stones

• Internally - The juice of one fresh lemon can be added to a glass of water and consumed each morning. This is a great detoxifying drink and also helps to alkalize the body. 
• Topically - Grant from California, an Earth Clinic contributor, shared that his wife "massaged lemon (or orange) essential oil on the gum around the salivary stone each day to help dissolve stones and help prevent future stones." While she was using the essential oil straight, this is too strong for some. Diluting the essential oil in some coconut oil would be a way to make this remedy less irritating for those who may be sensitive to the oils straight.

Castor Oil for Salivary Stones

Castor Oil has wonderful healing properties and is also helpful for pain relief. Castor oil can be poured onto a cloth and held against the pained and swollen area for 20 minutes once or twice a day. Another option would be to massage castor oil into the pained and swollen area at bedtime. (Do sleep on an old pillowcase as it may leave grease stains!) 

Borax for Salivary Stones

Surprisingly, borax (sodium tetraborate) is a natural remedy for calcium deposits. The typical dose for men is 1/4 teaspoon of borax in 1 liter of water, consumed over the course of a day. This is done four days in a row with three days off, indefinitely. For women, the dose is 1/8 teaspoon of borax in 1 liter of water, consumed over the course of the day for four days in a row with three days off, indefinitely. If digestive distress should occur, reduce the amount. Results may take longer to see but even at 1/16th of a teaspoon in a liter of water 4 days a week over several months can eliminate calcium deposits.

Vitamin Supplements for Salivary Stones

Magnesium is important for proper calcium balance in the body. Magnesium deficiency is a common problem. If the body has too much calcium and cannot get rid it it, calcium deposits, in the form of stones, results. Magnesium can be taken as a supplement. Epsom salt baths also provide the body with magnesium as it absorbs through the skin.

Epsom salt can also be used as a poultice for the salivary stones. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of epsom salt in 1/3 cup of warm water. Soak a cloth in it and hold it against the face where it will be closest to the stones for 20 minutes daily. This should also help with any pain or inflammation.

Herbs for Salivary Stones

There are a number of lithotrophic herbs that can be used for salivary stones. Lithotrophic herbs help to break up and dissolve stones. Chanca piedra is often called, "Stone Breaker" because of this property. Dandelion, gravel root and hydrangea are other lithothophic herbs. Herbs can be taken as teas, in capsules or in tincutures. Many companies make combination formulas for dissolving stones that have several lithotrophic herbs in them. They should be taken according to manufacturer's directions.

What Can I do for Infected Salivary Stones?

• Oregano essential oil can be used to help with infections cause by salivary stones. Oregano oil can be bought in a capsule or supplement form and taken internally. 1 drop of oregano essential oil can also be added to 1 teaspoon of extra virgin coconut oil and swished in the mouth (this is also known as oil pulling) for 10-20 minutes for oral infections. Spit the oil out after swishing.
• Turmeric is another wonderful herb that helps with pain, inflammation and infection. 1 teaspoon of turmeric can be mixed in milk, almond milk, or soy milk and taken twice a day. Alternately 4 capsules can be taken twice a day. Turmeric should always be taken with plenty of water to avoid constipation.

Scroll down to read how Earth Clinic contributors have dealt with their salivary stones. Have you tried any natural remedies for salivary stones? Please share your story with us!