Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by pain and inflammation of the joints caused by deposits of uric acid crystals. Symptoms of acute gout include severe pain, fever and general sick feeling; the affected joint is red, warm and swollen. Conventional therapy involves nonsteroidal and steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as well as specific anti-gout medication. Rosemary, a common herb, may also help manage gout; however, you should not take this supplement without medical supervision.
About Rosemary
Rosemary, scientifically known as Rosmarinus, is a common spice in Mediterranean cuisine and is also used in for hair and skin care products. Rosemary is also a medicinal herb used traditionally for muscle and joint pains and to improve digestive and neurological conditions. As of 2011, rosemary oil applied on the skin has the approval of the German E Commission, the equivalent of the FDA in Europe, for the treatment of arthritis and muscle pain and to improve circulation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC.
Research
Hesperidin is a key active ingredient of rosemary that is the topic of a study in the February 2011 issue of "Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behaviour." This study, which involved animal subjects, concluded that hesperidin derived from rosemary extract helped relieve the joint pain associated with gout. The authors also found that rosemary works with the conventional painkiller keterolac in managing joint pain, and therefore this herb may have potential for use in pain therapy. Check with your doctor before using herbal remedies.
Dosage & Safety
For skin applications you can use rosemary essential oil 6 percent to 10 percent. Add 2 drops of this oil to 1 tbsp. of olive oil, and apply on the affected area. Or add 50 grams of the herb to 1 liter of water, boil this combination, let it cool and add it to bath water. Like any other herb, rosemary may cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Never take rosemary oil orally; it is toxic. Always wash your hands after applying rosemary oil on the skin. If taken as an oral supplement, rosemary may interfere with blood thinners, anti-diabetes drugs and some medication used for high blood pressure; check with your doctor.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find out more about how you can use rosemary oils to improve your condition. A healthy diet low in animal proteins and limiting alcohol consumption may also help prevent joint pain and inflammation associated with gout. You should not use rosemary to replace any drugs prescribed for managing gout. Talk to a doctor before taking rosemary or any other supplements.
