Natural Gout Remedies – Herbal, Homeopathy, Naturopathy
Gout is an inflammatory joint disorder which causes episodes of severe pain, redness and swelling of the joint. It usually affects the big toe but can also affect other joints, especially those of the leg. The cause of gout lies in the blood uric acid levels which contributes to urate crystals forming around the joint. The treatment and management of gout focuses on easing the signs and symptoms during the attack and preventing further attacks. It is during this preventative period that alternative therapies like herbal medicine, homeopathy and naturopathy are the most effective for gout.
Diet for Gout
Uric acid is formed as a byproduct of the body’s breakdown of proteins and other foods that contain purine like mushrooms and asparagus. The main source of protein is through meat so you should avoid meat as far as possible. This does not only include red meat – white meat can also contribute towards high uric acid levels. The body usually flushes out the uric acid through the kidneys so drinking plenty of water during the day will assist with this process. It is advisable to double your normal water intake and maintain this by drinking water with every meal and throughout the day. While all meat is a problem in gout, offals or meat from animal organs contribute towards high uric acid levels significantly. Also avoid alcohol, acidic foods like citrus fruits (lemon, orange and grapefruit) as well as tomatos.
Nutritional Supplements
The B-vitamins should be taken on a daily basis and you can use a vitamin-B complex tablet. This helps with the body’s breakdown of uric acid apart from just excreting it in the urine. Vitamin C and vitamin E suppments may also be useful but avoid large quantities of vitamin C.
Herbal Remedies for Gout
Celery seed extract is most often used for gout. It has a diuretic effect meaning that it encourages urine production which assists with passing out uric acid. Celery seed can be used in a tablet or capsule form and you should consult with a naturopath to find the most appropriate dosage for your condition and body weight. Other herbal remedies that may also be useful include yarrow, devil’s claw and burdock. These can be used as a herbal tea which should be drank once or twice a day.
Homeopathic Remedies
The two main homeopathic remedies that should be considered for gout is Bryonia alba or Rhus toxicodendron. These remedies should be used in a low potency on a daily basis, preferably a 6C or D12. You should start with Bryonia alba on a daily basis and if this is not effective, then opt for Rhus toxicodendron. Arnica montana 6C can be used if you are feeling any discomfort or pain and this can be used along with Urtica dioca 6C. For acute attacks, Arnica montana can be used in a lower potency, like a D6, many times during the day.
Avoid using herbal tinctures or homeopathic potencies in an alcohol base. The alcohol solvent may play a part in aggravating your gout.