Gout is a painful inflammatory disorder characterized by deposits of uric acid in the joints. Symptoms of gout include throbbing pain, redness, warmth and tenderness. The symptoms flare up suddenly and subside after several days. The disorder is caused by either an overproduction or impaired excretion of uric acid. Conventional medications exist to treat the causes and symptoms of gout, however, there are also herbs available that treat the disorder effectively, according to website HolisticOnline.com. Be sure to consult a physician before using any herbal treatments.
Bilberry
Bilberry is a medicinal plant indigenously grown in Europe, Canada and the United States. The ripe berries are harvested for the effects of their active compounds, anthocyanidins, which are thought to be effective treating gout, according to HolisticOnline.com. The action of bilberry is to reduce levels of uric acid and the prevention of the destruction of tissues that can be caused by an overabundance of acid. People often take 80-mg capsules standardized to 25 percent anthocyanidins should be taken three times per day.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a culinary herb widely known for providing the yellow color of curry powder and a medicinal herb highly regarded for its anti-inflammatory action. Practitioners in both Chinese and Ayurvedic have used turmeric for centuries as a remedy for gout, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. HolisticOnline.com recommends taking 250 to 500 mg turmeric capsules or tablets three times per day for treating gout symptoms.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is a bitter herb that has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of a myriad of inflammatory diseases, including gout and arthritis. The medicinal properties believed to have strong anti-inflammatory effects called iridoid glycosides are found in the roots and tubers of the plant, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition to its role as an anti-inflammatory, devil's claw is thought to attack the cause of the disorder by reducing the excessive levels of uric acid. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends gout sufferers take 600 to 1,200 mg of devil's claw standardized to contain 50 to 100 mg of harpagoside, 3 times per day.
