Gout is a type of arthritis that develops when uric acid accumulates in your joints. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that in some cases the body produces an excessive amount of uric acid, while in other cases the body is unable to excrete sufficient amounts of uric acid. Commonly experienced gout-related symptoms include fever; throbbing, excruciating pain in your big toe, knee or ankle; and joints that are red and warm to the touch.
Gout Information
Gout can affect people of all ages, although men are more likely to develop this condition than women. Certain lifestyle factors, especially excessive alcohol use, can lead to gout. Other possible risk factors for gout include a family history of the condition, drugs prescribed for hypertension and certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes and atherosclerosis. If not treated in a timely fashion, gout may cause skin nodules called tophi and kidney stones.
Recommended Herbal Medicine
In his book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," expert herbalist Edward Smith recommends certain herbal medicines for the treatment of gout, including burdock root, celery seeds, dandelion root, juniper, nettle and prickly ash. Other herbal medicines that may help treat gout include bilberry extract for its antioxidant action, boswellia and turmeric for their anti-inflammatory action, yucca and devil's claw to help treat pain, and capsicum powder to treat both pain and inflammation.
Highlighted Herb
Celery seed extract is often recommended as an herbal treatment for gout. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," celery seed extract helps lower your blood pressure, reduces muscle spasms and improves appetite. Celery seed extract has been effective for treating gout, arthritis and kidney problems. This herb possesses antioxidant, sedative and diuretic action. In addition to the seeds, the roots of the celery plant may also be used medicinally.
Disclaimer
Instead of self-treating with herbal medicines, visit a qualified health care professional such as a naturopathic physician or a medical doctor for specific and relevant information about the herbs you are interested in taking. Some herbal medicines can cause unwanted and serious side effects if they are taken incorrectly. A health care provider specializing in botanical medicine can provide clear directions about the best use of herbal medicines, and he can counsel you on what to expect from their use.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Gout
- Mayo Clinic: Gout
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Edward Smith; 2007
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
Member Comments