Couch Grass for Kidney Stones

A 2012 study found that 100mg of couch grass (Agropyrum repens) plus potassium citrate (24mEq) 2x daily was significantly more effective than potassium citrate (20mEq) 3x daily alone at reducing the number and size of kidney stones over 5 months in people with kidney stones who were candidates for potassium citrate therapy. Couch grass also significantly reduced urinary uric acid excretion. Treatment groups were not blinded in this trial. Couch grass is thought to be a mild diuretic and have anti-inflammatory properties. Some people may be allergic to couch grass or have other side effects.

Brardi S, Imperiali P, Cevenini G, Verdacchi T, Ponchietti R. Effects of the association of potassium citrate and agropyrum repens in renal stone treatment: results of a prospective randomized comparison with potassium citrate. Arch Ital Urol Androl. 2012 Jun;84(2):61-7. PMID: 22908773.