Numerous natural remedies and alternative treatments are available to help reduce gout pain and lessen the incidence of gout attacks. Some of these include homeopathic medicines, herbs, enzyme supplements and medicinal foods. Although there is not much scientific evidence to support claims made for alternative treatments for gout, there is anecdotal evidence from practitioners and patients alike that points to the efficacy of natural remedies for symptom relief. Some herbs and alternative preparations can cause side effects, so it is always recommended that a practitioner be consulted before starting new treatments.
Step 1
Drink water to flush the system of toxins that may collect in the blood and bodily tissues causing gout. Uric acid crystals are flushed from the body through the kidneys and urinary tract. Drinking water not only dilutes uric acid in the blood and urine, but also prevents it from forming into crystals.
Step 2
Eat more high-fiber and whole foods, healthy fats and fruits and vegetables. These foods provide the body with nutrients and compounds that prevent the formation of uric acid and keep the system healthier.
Step 3
Eat black bean broth to relieve gout symptoms, recommends Gout Pal. Black beans contain anthocyanins and other nutrients that may stop gout attacks almost immediately for some people.
Step 4
Take bromelain and turmeric together to reduce gout symptoms and help prevent frequent gout attacks. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 300 mg, three times a day, of turmeric for inflammatory conditions. They recommend 40 mg, three times a day, of bromelain for pain relief.
Step 5
Use homeopathic Colchicum for gout pain relief. The remedy Colchicum is indicated for gout patients who experience tearing pains in the joints and tissues accompanied by burning and stinging, according to Frans Vermeulen in his book "Synoptic Materia Medica." In addition, there may be a feeling like pins and needless in the fingers and toes. Joints may feel weak and stiff. The pain in the big toe may be so intense the individual cannot bear to have it touched, even by a lightweight sheet. There may be tingling sensations in both hands and feet and the person may not be able to walk.
Tips and Warnings
- Make black bean broth by simmering 1 cup turtle or black beans in 1 quart of water for 90 minutes until they are tender. Do not season the broth. Remove the beans and use in other dishes. Drink 1 cup of broth at the first sign of an attack to stave off gout pain. Then, drink a cup daily to prevent recurrences. Store the extra broth in the refrigerator. Turmeric is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and lessen pain in delicate tissues, providing relief for some gout patients. In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Center adds that bromelain helps reduce inflammation by increasing the absorption of the active ingredient in turmeric, called curcumin. Taking it in combination with turmeric increases the efficacy of both supplements. Homeopathic remedies are available at health food stores, from online homeopathic pharmacies and homeopaths. In the case of gout, self-treatment should be avoided and a homeopath should be consulted.
- Both bromelain and turmeric can thin the blood. People taking blood-thinning medicines should avoid these two herbs. If bleeding occurs while using these supplements, stop taking them immediately and consult a health practitioner.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Wholel foods, fruits, vegetables and grains
- Black beans
- Bromelain and turmeric supplements
- Homeopathic Colchicum
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Turmeric
- GoutPal: Black Bean Broth
- "Synoptic Materia Medica"; Frans Vermeulen; 1992
