Gout is a type of arthritis that affects the joints. It's caused when the body doesn't rid itself of a chemical called "uric acid." In a normal functioning body, this uric acid gets eliminated in the urine, but when someone has gout, it pools up at joint locations and leads to swelling, redness, inflammation, stiffness and pain. The big toe is one of the most common areas where it is seen, but there are no joints that are exempt. One of the first lines of defense in treating gout pain are pain relievers, but they can come with side effects. Homeopathic treatments can be a safer approach.
Charcoal
Charcoal is used for more things than cooking food on a grill. There are some ways to use it as an alternative to treat gout. Charcoal poultice is a substance that can be blended into a paste with flax seeds and applied to an affected joint for several hours or overnight. It has the ability to draw out toxins, which can relieve the pain and discomfort.
If your foot is victimized by gout, you can make a charcoal bath to soak it in. This is done by placing a 1/2 cup of charcoal powder into hot water, forming a paste and placing your foot in it.
There is also an oral form that can be used called "activated charcoal." This is taken 4 times a day in 1/2 to 1 tsp servings. This is said to lower uric acid levels in the body.
Cherry Treat
Cherries are a fruit that have a slightly tart and sweet taste. They are high in vitamin C and are heralded as a powerful antioxidant. As for gout-related benefits, they also have a substance called "anthocyanins." This is what causes the cherries to be red; it also helps to reduce inflammation. Cherries can be eaten by themselves or can be used as an extract or juice.
Purine Reduction
According to Robert Wortmann, M.D., an associate professor of medicine and co-chief of the Rheumatology Division at the Medical College of Wisconsin, "foods that are high in a substance called purine contribute to higher levels of uric acid." Some foods that are especially high in purines and should be avoided are organ meats, consomme, herring, anchovies, meat extracts, gravy and sardines. Some foods that are moderate in purines and should be limited include shellfish, whole grains, oatmeal, mushrooms, cauliflower and yeast.
Water
Water is a calorie-free substance that can help hydrate the cells of the body. It can also help flush out uric acid before it can do any damage. Robert H. Davis Ph. D., from the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine, recommends five to six glasses a day for best results.
Herbal teas are another good choice to increase water intake. They are free of calories and caffeine, which can help keep your weight under control and keep you from getting too jumpy. Sarsaparilla, peppermint, rosehip and yarrow are examples.
Arnica
Arnica is a homeopathic remedy that's used when a person doesn't want to be touched by another person in fear that he might experience pain. It also helps relieve discomfort and pain that injuries to the affected areas have caused.
Rhus Tox
Rhus tox is a homeopathic remedy that's used when joints become very painful, red, warm and stiff. This is also used when the symptoms worsen as a result of exposure to damp and cold weather patterns.
Sulphur
In some instances, there are other symptoms that take place with gout--such as a burning sensation in the feet and an itch felt in the affected areas. When this is the case, sulphur is recommended. This is also favored when the weather is warm or damp, as in the spring.
