Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by the deposit of uric acid crystals in one or more joints of the body. Various factors contribute to causing gout ranging from heredity to obesity and diet. Treatment options include several conventional medications; however, you may also choose to use natural remedies to relieve gout pain such as supplements, herbs and foods. Some herbs may cause side effects, so ask your health practitioner before starting any new regimen.
Turmeric
Turmeric is an ancient herb used by both the Indians and Chinese for the treatment of pain. The active ingredient in turmeric is known as curcumin, which has been shown effective in reducing inflammation, swelling and pain in the joints of arthritis and gout patients, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Turmeric may cause thinning of the blood, so if you take blood-thinning medicines, consult with your health practitioner before using it.
Bromelain
Bromelain comes from pineapples and is an enzyme shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain for in those suffering from arthritis and gout, according to the University of Oregon. Like turmeric, bromelain may also cause thinning of the blood and those taking blood thinning medicines should use caution and contact a health practitioner.
The University of Oregon adds that bromelain and turmeric enhance each other's efficacy for reducing pain and inflammation; and when they are used together, they may compliment or replace the use of corticosteriods medications for these symptoms.
Tart Cherries
Tart cherry juice is high in antioxidants and anthocyanins that are reputed to help reduce the pain of gout and prevent future attacks, according to The People's Pharmacy. Mix 4 oz. tart cherry concentrate with 2 to 4 oz. water and drink once or twice a day to mitigate gout attack, suggests the University of Michigan Health System. They add that you can eat half-pound of sour cherries daily instead of drinking cherry juice to reduce pain and control inflammation.
Burdock Root
Burdock root is used by both Eastern and Western herbalists to reduce inflammation and swelling for gout patients, according to Georgetown University. If you experience a great deal of swelling in your joints in association with a gout attack, this herb may be helpful in relieving your symptoms. There are several ways to use burdock root.
Make burdock root tea by steeping 2 tbsp. dried herb in 2 cups boiling water for thirty minutes. Strain and drink a cup of the tea. Use the other cup of tea as a soak or with compresses applied directly to the painful joint.
Use fresh burdock root as you would carrots or other root vegetables. Boil it and eating as a vegetable or add to salads. Burdock root is a natural diuretic and may be helpful in removing fluid buildup from the tissues around a painful joint, offering pain relief by lessening pressure. If you are taking diuretics, talk to your primary care practitioner before using burdock root internally.
Handling the leaves of the burdock plant may cause a skin rash. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop using it and consult your health practitioner.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout-Causes and Risk Factors
- University of Oregon: Supplements
- The People's Pharmacy: Cherry Juice Eases Foot Pain
- University of Michigan Health System: Gout
- Urban Herbs: Medicinal Plants at Georgetown University: Burdock (Burdock Root)
- MedLine Plus: Burdock (Arctium lappa)
