Once known as the rich man's disease, gout was primarily associated with wealthy people who overindulged in alcohol and heavy, fatty food. The condition has several risk factors, however, and can affect people across a wide spectrum of economic classes. While conventional management aims to prevent complications and recurrence with medications and lifestyle changes, the herb sarsaparilla may also offer therapeutic benefits. The need for further scientific study exists, however, to substantiate sarsaparilla's efficacy, so consult your physician before use.
About Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis marked by uric acid deposits, byproducts of protein breakdown. When enzymes fail to break down excessive amounts of uric acid, the acid eventually crystallizes into needle-shaped deposits. As these sharp crystals penetrate into joints and surrounding tissue, severe pain, redness and swelling may occur. It can strike any joint but commonly favors those in the legs and feet, especially the big toe. Though the cause of gout remains unclear, family history, gender, obesity, stress, lead toxicity, high blood pressure and alcohol abuse may work as risk factors, according to Dr. James E. Balch, author of the book "Prescription for Natural Cures." Unless treated, attacks commonly recur.
Sarsaparilla
Found in Jamaica, Australia and China, sarsaparilla grows up to heights of 15 feet and bears tendrils, green flowers and wide, oval-shaped leaves. It has a fragrant root used for herbal preparations. Sarsaparilla's long history as an herbal remedy dates back to the 1500s, when it gained a reputation as a treatment for syphilis and skin conditions. Before replacement by artificial products, manufacturers used sarsaparilla root as the original flavoring agent for root beer.
Benefits
As overproduction and retention of uric acid result in the accumulation of crystal-like deposits in your joints and surrounding tissues, extremely painful attacks occur. According to Phyllis A. Balch, certified nutritional consultant and author of the book "Prescription for Herbal Healing," sarsaparilla may help stimulate the elimination of uric acid through urination, thus reducing the risk of gout. Additionally, sarsaparilla contains key constituents such as steroidal saponins and phytosterols, which provide anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties that may offer relief from rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. As the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center points out, however, only weak evidence exists for these claims.
Side Effects
While the herb has no serious known side effects, certain sarsaparilla products may contain elevated levels of lead, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Its high levels of saponins may cause gastrointestinal upset, so people with ulcers, gastritis and kidney disease should avoid the herb. Sarsaparilla may also interfere with the absorption of certain prescribed medications and stimulates testosterone production. Men with prostate disorders, children and pregnant and nursing women should refrain from using sarsaparilla.
References
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James F. Balch, M.D., et al.; 2004
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Gout
- "DK Natural Health Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine"; Andrew Chevallier; 2000
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Sarsaparilla
