Salivary Duct Stone Remedies

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.

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