Gouty arthritis and urate kidney stones are both related to increased uric acid content in the body that can not easily be excreted by the kidneys. Natural treatment for these conditions can not only treat the symptoms relieving disabling pain and discomfort, but can also assist in reducing the uric acid levels and helping the kidneys more effectively excrete the excess. If you suffer from gout or gout-related kidney stones give some of these natural remedies a try to find relief from your symptoms.
Nutritional
Reducing or eliminating certain foods in your diet is one of the primary ways to alleviate symptoms of both gout and urate kidney stones according to Goutcure.com. Foods high in purines or that stimulate the production of uric acid are animal fats, animal proteins, especially red meats and organ meats, certain vegetables such spinach, mushrooms and asparagus, most dried beans and food additives like artificial sweeteners and MSG.
Dr. Baroody, in his excellent book, "Alkalize or Die" recommends eating certain foods to help break down uric acid which helps the kidneys excrete it more easily. These foods also have a medicinal effect for treating gout pain and dissolving kidney stones. Try tart cherry juice, organic apple cider vinegar, raw honey, black bean broth, or baking soda. These particular foods are high in potassium (except for baking soda), and all are able to create an alkaline-forming environment in the body protecting against acidosis which aggravates gout.
Supplements, Herbs and Enzymes
Relieve gout and kidney stones with various herbal remedies, vitamins and other supplements. Home_Remedies_Digest.com recommends the spice tumeric to reduce pain in the joints. It stimulates the adrenal glands in the production of cortisone, a natural pain killer and anti-inflammatory. It's available in capsules at your health food stores or use as a spice in your food. Bromelain, recommended by Health911.com is an enzyme found in pineapple has shown to be effective in relieving joint pain by reducing inflammation. Certain Chinese herbs are prescribed to support the activity of the kidneys and reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. Health911.com recommends vitamin C and celery seeds for treatment of gout . These supplements are all available in health food stores or from holistic practitioners.
Homeopathic
Certain homeopathic remedies can strengthen the kidneys and reduce gout symptoms. William Boericke's well known book, "Materia Medica and Repertory" as well as Frans Vermuellen's books, "Synoptic Materia Medica I and II" list remedies such as Berberis, Pulsatilla, Urtica Urens and Colchicum to help reduce the crippling pain and discomfort of gout as well as for treating gouty stones and stimulating kidney function. Homeopathic medicine treats each person individually based on a detailed case-taking. A qualified homeopathic practitioner should be consulted to help find the specific remedy for you. Self-treatment is not advised in the case of chronic diseases.
Other considerations
If you have gout or kidney stones, try combining the above suggestions for optimal relief of symptoms. It's best to work with a holistic practitioner who is familiar with these methods and who can manage your case.
References
- Home_Remedies_Digest.com: Tumeric
- Goutcure.com: Gout Foods - That Harm and Heal
- "Alkalinize or Die", Dr. Theodore A. Baroody, 1991
