Gout is an arthritic condition resulting from high levels of circulating uric acid. Uric acid is a metabolic byproduct of the recycling of old cells and the breakdown of proteins in foods. Gout, according to LabTestsOnline.com, can occur due to the overproduction of uric acid or the inability of the kidneys to properly flush the uric acid from the body. Uric acid is a crystalline structure with sharp needle-like edges. When it accumulates in the blood, it will find its way into small joint spaces, causing intense pain, swelling and inflammation. Gout is most commonly experienced in the big toe joint. There are a variety of herbal and nutrtional therapies that can help to prevent and treat gout. The use of alternative therapies to treat your condition should be discussed with your health care practitioner.
Diet
Lifestyle factors that affect gouty arthritis include the concentration of uric acid that comes into the body in the form of food. According to the website The World’s Healthiest Foods, the average American consumes approximately 600mg to 1,000mg of purines per day. A nutritionist may suggest that a person with recurrent gout limit their intake of purine-rich foods to no more than 50mg to 150mg of purines per day.
Foods that are extremely high in purines, containing up to 1,000mg per 3.5 oz serving, include anchovies, sardines, herring, kidney, liver, mackerel, scallops and mussels, mincemeat, mussels, broths, bouillon and gravy, and brewer’s yeast. Limiting alcohol, particularly beer, to no more than two drinks per day in men and one for women will reduce gouty attacks. Increasing water intake to 2 to 4 liters per day will also help to prevent uric acid from building up.
Devil's Claw
Harpagophytum procumbens, known more commonly as devil’s claw, relieves rheumatic and arthritic pain according to herbalists Merrily Khun and David Winston. In their book, “Herbal Therapy & Supplements,” the authors note that devil’s claw is native to southwest Africa. The active ingredient, harpagoside, is found to be most concentrated in the root of the plant. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 750mg of the standardized extract of devil’s claw three times per day. Khun notes that devil’s claw increases acid and enzyme production in the digestive tract and thus its use should be avoided in cases of gastric or duodenal ulcers.
Cat's Claw
Uncaria tomentosa, otherwise known as cat’s claw, is an herb native to Peru. The UMM states that cat’s claw has anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating activities. The standardized extract of this Peruvian herb is suggested in a dose of 20mg, taken three times per day. Cat’s claw should be avoided in people on immunosuppressive therapies and during pregnancy. Mild gastrointestinal upset is a side effect common to both, and devil’s and cat’s claw and drug-herb interactions may exist. The addition of new herbs to your regimen should be discussed with your health care practitioner before use.
Black Cherry Concentrate
Cherries and other very dark berries are good sources of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These fruits are also great sources of immune-boosting vitamin C. Black cherries have a long-reputed history of use in the treatment of gout. A 2003 Journal of Nutrition article sought to determine the mechanism by which cherries influence this condition. The reputation of cherries in relieving gout was confirmed by this study, noting that the fruit effectually lowered uric acid levels and decreased the plasma concentration of inflammatory molecules. UMM suggests that consuming one-half pound of fresh or frozen cherries per day for two weeks can lower uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks. Eight to 16 oz. of cherry juice per day may also be helpful but should be discussed with your physician first.
Natural Diuretics
A diuretic helps to move water out of the body and flush substances from the urinary tract. Natural diuretics appear to benefit gout, as they help with neutralizing uric acid in addition to assisting with its removal. A 2004 Barron Report article notes the herbs gravel root and parsley. Both herbs are noted by the article to remove excess gravel in the form of uric acid and other urinary stones through their diuretic action. No specific dosages were provided for these herbs, but parsley intake was also recommended in the form of food. All medicinal uses of food and herbs should be discussed with your health care professional before use.
References
- Lab Tests Online: Gout
- The World’s Healthiest Foods: What Are Purines and in Which Foods Are They Found?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout Prevention
- “Herbal Therapy & Supplements”; Merrily A. Khun and David Winston; 2000
- The Journal of Nutrition: Consumption of Cherries Lowers Plasma Urate in Healthy Women
