If you suffer from gout, then you already know the kind of agony it can create. Gout is a form of arthritis that affects the small joints, especially those in the feet, with inflammation, stiffness and excruciating pain. Along with various medicines, numerous natural and herbal treatments you can use may alleviate gout symptoms. Since herbs can produce side effects, always check with your practitioner before using unfamiliar herbal treatments.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is reputed to offer relief of symptoms for some gout patients, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Along with eating foods high in vitamin C like citrus fruits, peppers and leafy greens, vitamin C supplements may be provide pain relief. Experts suggest starting moderately, with a dose of 500 mg daily and building up to between 4,000 mg and 8,000 mg daily based on bowel tolerance. If you begin to have diarrhea, back down on your dose to where you have normal stools and stick to that dosage. Initially you may trigger a gout attack when you first start taking vitamin C supplements when the uric acid crystals begin to dissolve and are released from the joints. Continue to take the vitamin C and use other natural treatments for pain relief until your body gets used to the vitamin C. If symptoms persist, reduce the dose of vitamin C and speak to your health practitioner.
Homeopathic Colchicum
Another natural remedy for the treatment of gout is homeopathic colchicum. The remedy has been found helpful in many cases where gout and other gout-like symptoms exist, according to homeopath Frans Vermeulen in his book "Synoptic Materia Medica." It is indicated for people who report tearing, excruciating pains in the toes and joints of the feet accompanied by burning sensations. It may reduce feelings of pins and needles in the toes and stiffness in the joints. Colchicum is available over-the-counter in health food stores and from online homeopathic pharmacies. Consult with a homeopath or other practitioner familiar with the use of homeopathic remedies.
Burdock Root
Burdock root is widely used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine as well as in Western herbalism and may bring tremendous relief to gout sufferers especially if there is concomitant edema and swelling of the tissues of the feet, ankles and legs, says "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." It is a blood purifier and may help in the removal of excess uric acid from the blood stream and urine, says Urban Herbs. Burdock can be used in a variety of ways including eaten as a vegetable by boiling it like asparagus or by adding it to salads in its raw form. Additionally, you can make burdock root tea from the dried herb by boiling 1 tsp. of the herb in 2 cups water for 15 minutes. Strain, cool and drink as needed throughout the day to reduce edema. Burdock leaves may cause a rash if you are sensitive. If this happens, stop handling them and wait to see if it subsides. If symptoms persist, call your practitioner.
Dandelion
Dandelion is a potent herb that has been used in both Eastern and Western medicine for centuries. Among its uses, dandelion acts as a diuretic, pulling fluids out of swollen, edematous tissues around the ankles and feet in gout attacks, writes Medline Plus. Make tea from dried dandelion leaves by boiling 1 tsp. of the herb in 1 cup water for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool, strain and drink as needed for relief. Consult your health practitioner before using dandelion if you take diuretics.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Gout
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing;" James Duke; 2002
- "Synoptic Materia Medica;" Frans Vermeulen; 1992
- University of Georgetown Urban Herbs: Burdock
- MedLine Plus: Dandelion
