Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the excess production of uric acid. The excess uric acid in the blood will crystallize and is deposited in the joints causing redness, swelling, stiffness and severe pain. Herbs, supplements, and natural remedies for gout are preferred by most gout sufferers since prescription medications for the treatment of gout are not safe for long term use, don’t relieve symptoms satisfactorily and have severe side effects.
As with most diseases, prevention is the first line of defense. An anti-gout diet will decrease the amount of purines and uric acid in the blood. It includes drinking six to eight glasses of water a day; eliminating purine rich foods such as red meat, organ meat, shellfish, mushrooms, creamy sauces, whole grain foods, and dried peas; increasing consumption of potassium rich foods, tofu, soybeans, olive oil and dark red or blue berries; and eliminating the consumption of alcohol. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight and get regular exercise.
Herbs, supplements, and natural remedies for gout are numerous. Herbs are used in teas, tinctures, poultices, oils and baths. They can also be taken in pill form. Supplements are anything that you eat or drink; such as vitamins, herbs, minerals, plants or any part of these substances. It is important to check with your physician before implementing an herbal or supplement therapy to avoid drug interactions or worsening a medical condition. A natural remedy means that you do not need to see a physician or get a prescription to use it.
The following supplements and herbs are used for the treatment of gout.
- Bromelain taken in high doses of 6-8 capsules of 1200GDU potency or higher daily with plenty of water. For best results use 2000GDU which is the maximum potency available. Bromelain aids in the digestion of protein which is the underlying cause of gout. It also decreases pain and inflammation.
- Rosemary oil massaged into the skin of the affected joint can give immediate relief from pain. It can be diluted with olive oil if it irritates the skin.
- Watermelon and its seeds are used in the treatment of gout for the nutrients they provide.
- Magnesium and B vitamins are important for proper liver function. The liver produces enzymes and acids that aid in the digestion of proteins.
- Cultured cabbage juice, active yogurt or a beneficial bacteria supplement such as PB-8 or Jarrodophilus will maintain healthy intestinal flora. These bacteria consume uric acid before it is absorbed by the intestines and enters the blood stream.
- Calcium activates digestive enzymes that break down protein.
- Baking soda is used to raise the alkalinity of body fluids allowing more uric acid to be dissolved in the urine. Dissolve half a teaspoon in 8 ounces of water and drink four to six times a day during an attack. Don’t take more than four teaspoons of baking soda in a 24 hour period.
- Celery seed or oil contains sedanolide, which is used to treat inflammatory diseases.
- Vitamin C boosts the immune system, increasing healthy body function.
Herbs, supplements, and natural remedies for gout have proven successful for many gout sufferers. A combination of diet, exercise and supplements, offer the gout patient the best chance for long term management of their gout symptoms.