Gout is a type of arthritis that involves swelling of the joints, caused by excess uric acid, according to the Mayo Clinic. The disease is characterized by pressure causing enlargement and swelling and pain, states the Medical College of Wisconsin. Homeopathic remedies can be used to treat gout. Homeopathy works by prescribing remedies based on the symptoms of the person and not of the disease, and using minute doses to heal. Homeopathic remedies are licensed as drugs by the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia, which is under the FDA.
Nux Vomica
Nux vomica is a homeopathic remedy used to treat gout, according to Clarke's "Dictionary of Practical Materia Medica." The plant name is strychnos, and the seed is the part used in the medicine. Nux vomica is used to treat gout when the gout causes irritability and impatience in the person, as well as pain. There can be digestive disturbances along with the gout as well.
Ledum
Ledum is a homeopathic remedy used to treat gout when it inflames a person's big toe. The person needing this remedy feels chilled and the toe feels cold, states Clarke's "Dictionary of Practical Materia Medica." Ledum is useful to treat the side effects of colchicine, an ingredient found in common pharmaceutical remedies for gout.
Colchicum Autumnale
Colchicum autumnale is a homeoathic remedy made from the meadow saffron plant. Also called the naked lady or autumn crocus, it is the most common homeopathic remedy used to treat gout. This is the remedy of choice when any movement of the joint causes pain, or if the joint is inflamed, bright red and more painful when it is touched.
Aconite
Aconite is a poisonous plant that is used in homeopathic doses to treat gout. The person needing this remedy may feel anxiety and restlessness caused by the gout symptoms, and may notice symptoms quickly after being in cold weather or in the wind. This remedy is especially useful in treating gout in the feet.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Gout
- The Homœopathic Pharmacopœia of the United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- "Dictionary of Practical Materia Medica;" Clarke; 2000
