Gout is an exceptionally painful form of arthritis characterized by the inflammation of one joint at a time, most commonly the joints of the big toes. Much of the time, gout develops because of a rich, high-fat diet contributing to the formation of uric acid crystals deposited in the joints of the extremities. Natural treatments may help reduce gout symptoms, but may also cause side effects. Consult with a primary care health practitioner before using herbal treatments for gout.
Step 1
Lose weight to relieve gout. Being overweight can cause and aggravate gout, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Excess body weight causes wear and tear on the joints and the formation of higher levels of uric acid deposits in the kidneys and blood, leading to the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints.
Step 2
Reduce dietary purines, which break down into uric acid, a byproduct of protein digestion, according to the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide. Eliminating or cutting back on high-protein foods may help reduce the occurrence of gout attacks.
Step 3
Drink tart cherry juice, which is high in potassium and antioxidants called anthocyanins, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Mix 4 to 6 oz. of cherry juice with water and drink twice a day to relieve or prevent painful symptoms of gout from recurring. In the event tart cherry juice is unavailable, gout sufferers can eat 1/4 to 1/2 cup tart cherries for similar effects.
Step 4
Make a drink by combining 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar mixed in a glass of water two or three times a day for pain relief. If the vinegar is too strong, start with 1 tbsp. and work up to the full dose. Apple cider vinegar is reputed to relieve gout pain by alkalizing the body and reducing acidosis, according to Robert Young and Shelley Redford Young in their book, "The pH Miracle."
Step 5
Apply a paste of cayenne pepper mixed with water to painful joints for gout relief, according to Health Age. The active ingredient capsaicin is known to bind to pain receptors, interfering with signals from the brain where pain is processed and felt. Commercial capsaicin creams are available over-the-counter at most pharmacies. Capsaicin can cause burning, so it should be used in very small amounts in the beginning.
Tips and Warnings
- Animal protein and fats are broken down into purines, which contribute to the formation of uric acid in the blood and crystal formation in the kidneys and the joints, causing gout. Other food culprits that cause the formation of purines include beer, spinach, asparagus and certain legumes such as lentils.
- If gout pain persists or gets worse, contact your primary care doctor for additional treatments and medications.
Things You'll Need
- Tart cherry juice
- Cayenne pepper
- Capsaicin cream
- Apple cider vinegar
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout--Causes and Risk Factors
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: Gout--Joint pain and more
- University of Michigan Health System: Gout
- "The pH Miracle"; Robert Young and Shelley Redford Young; 2003
- HealthandAge.com: Try Capsaicin Cream for Painful Conditions
