Natural Stinging Nettle Treatments For Gout

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Symptoms include pain, swelling of the affected joints, and fever. About one in five gout sufferers will develop complications like kidney stones. Conventional treatment focuses on dietary changes, weight management, anti-inflammatory medication such as allopurinol, a drug that helps decrease uric acid in the body. Stinging nettle, scientifically known as Urtica doica is a herb native to Europe and North America that is sometimes used by alternative health care professionals to improve symptoms of gout. If you suffer from gout and consider taking nettle or other natural supplements, you should talk to your doctor first.

Research

The plant compounds from nettle extracts may help reduce uric acid levels in the body and may protect against gout, according to a research study discussed in August 2002 issue of "Phytotherapy Research." The British research team led by A. Pieroni also found that Urtica doica, among other weedy vegetables, has strong antioxidant qualities. Nettle is also used in herbal medicine for kidney stones, and its therapeutic benefits are derived from the plant's anti-inflammatory action.

Available Forms

The leaf and the root of nettle are used for medicinal preparations. Heather Boom, author of "50 Most Used Medicinal Herbs" suggests that leaf extracts are more effective for arthritic conditions. Leaf extracts are available as dry extracts, liquid extracts and tinctures. If you suffer from gout, choose a supplement derived from dried leaf as the other two available forms are alcohol based and alcohol may trigger gout attacks. Another option is to use homeopathic preparations of Urtica doica, which are available in either pellet or tablet forms.

Dosage

Daily dose of 3 to 6g of dried nettle leaf prepared as an infusion are usually recommended for inflammatory conditions. However, this dosage may be adjusted based on the severity of your symptoms and whether or not you have any other medical conditions. The daily dosage of homeopathic Urtica doica 30 CH is 3 pellets taken 2 to 3 times a day when you experience an acute attack of gout.

Considerations

Consult a qualified health care provider to find out optimal dosage of nettle supplements, possible side effects and drug interactions. Keep in mind that nettle does not replace and should not be used to replace and conventional drugs you are currently taking for gout. Dietary changes are very important as well, according to Merck Manual, because in many cases symptoms of gout improve just by losing extra weight and eliminate certain foods and alcohol.