Gout is caused by a buildup of crystallized uric acid in joints. There are a few folk remedies said to help ease the pain of a gout attack, but even the best cure won't help if you continue to take in foods rich in purines and oxalates, such as meat, spinach, rhubarb and beets. Aside from cutting out these foods, you can also follow the steps below for a soothing castor oil pack to reduce pain and---according to folk wisdom---remove toxins.
Step 1
Heat just enough castor oil to thoroughly soak a piece of cotton or wool flannel. This is usually best done with a double boiler or using the microwave. The castor oil should be as warm as you can stand but not scalding hot or too hot to touch for an extended time. Remember, it's going to be applied directly to your skin.
Step 2
Soak the cloth in the castor oil on both sides until it's saturated. Wring any extra oil back into the pot or cup and place the cloth on the painful area. Cover the flannel with an old towel or bandage to help keep it in place, then cover the towel or bandage with plastic wrap.
Step 3
Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to the outside of the castor oil pack. Lie back and relax, with the heating pad in place, for one hour. Make sure not to fall asleep with the heating pad on.
Step 4
Do this twice a day for as long as symptoms persist.
Tips and Warnings
- You can also consume a half-pound of cherries, or up to 16 ounces of cherry juice, every day. This is associated with lowered levels of uric acid in the blood and, while not scientifically proven as a cure, might help ease or prevent a gout attack. Another "folk wisdom" homemade gout remedy is to boil rose hips in apple cider vinegar, then dab this mixture on the affected area several times a day. You may need to do this for as long as several weeks.
Things You'll Need
- Castor oil
- Wool or cotton flannel
- Bandage or towel
- Plastic wrap
- Heating pad or hot water bottle
