Gout is a painful type of arthritis that affects joint tissues, particularly in your big toe. It is characterized by redness, swelling, tenderness and joint tissue inflammation. The symptoms of gout often occur at night. The condition is typically caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp urate crystals in joint tissues. Although herbs may not cure gout, they may help relieve symptoms and address underlying causes of this condition.
Talk to your physician before using herbs to address gout.
Cayenne
Cayenne peppers contain a chemical compound called capsaicin, which may be effective for relieving joint inflammation and pain. This may help relieve acute discomfort associated with gout, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Mix cayenne pepper with wintergreen oil before applying cayenne to your skin to help reduce the burning sensation caused by capsaicin. Check with your doctor before treating gout with cayenne -- this herb can cause skin rashes, and may irritate mucous membranes.
Hyssop
Hyssop was originally used to cleanse Jewish temples over 2,500 years ago, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." This herb may also offer medicinal benefits. 19th century American herbalists used hyssop as an antiseptic and antiviral agent to treat colds, influenza and genital herpes. The chemical compounds in hyssop may also possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help relieve the swelling and pain of gout. Consult your physician if you plan to treat gout with hyssop. In rare cases, it may cause stomach irritation.
Garlic
Garlic is a rich source of sulfur, according to Balch. Sulfur may help treat inflammation and pain associated with gout. It may also help relieve itching, another common symptom of this condition. Garlic also contains antioxidants, which may prevent damage to joint tissues caused by lipids, toxic uric acid and free radical molecules in your bloodstream. Check with your physician before using garlic for gout symptoms. It may thin your blood and prevent wound healing.
Nettle
Nettle is most commonly known as a material used for making strong, rot-resistant fabric. However, it also has a long history as an herbal medicine. Ancient Greeks recommended the juice from nettle stems and leaves as a remedy for snake bites, according to Castleman. Nettle juice may also relieve gout pain. Talk to your physician before using nettle as a gout remedy. It may cause stomach irritation, and may interfere with your ability to urinate.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Gout
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
