Gout is a form of arthritis which is characterised by pain similar to osteoarthritis. It is a result of excessive buildup of uric acid in the blood which then goes into the joints. This causes inflammation, ache, and discomfort. Excessive presence of purines that dissolve into uric acid crystals is bad for the body.
Purine levels can increase if one’s diet is rich in alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, and sodium. Therefore, in some individuals with gout, it can be of aid to boost the intake of water in order to eliminate the purines, but also, it is important to follow a healthy diet rich in fruits, veggies, nuts, and legumes.
In addition to the therapy your doctor has prescribed you, there are also specific natural remedies that can be of great aid. Continue reading the article to check out the full list.
6 Natural Remedies for Gout
- Ginger
Besides being used as a food and an herb, it is also a well-known natural remedy and it possesses strong anti-inflammatory characteristics. Some studies done with laboratory mice showed that it may lower the uric acid levels. The best way to use it for gout is to apply it topically. To prepare a paste, boil water and a tbsp of grated ginger. Then, soak one clean cloth in the mixture. Once it cools down, squeeze out the surplus liquid and place the cloth onto the painful area. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes. Repeat once per day. Since skin irritation is possible, make sure you do a test on a small area of the skin first. You can also use ginger internally. Boil water and steep 2 tsp of the root for 10 minutes. Then, strain the content and drink it. Have 3 cups on the daily.
- Nettle tea
Stinging nettle is often used as a cure for gout because it is considered to lower the inflammation and pain. To prepare the tea, boil one cup of water and then steep 2 tsp of dried nettle. Drink three cups per day. However, there is no study backing up the claims that nettle tea can help with gout. The evidence is anecdotal for now.
- Cold or hot compress
Did you know that applying cold or hot water onto inflamed joints may help lower the discomfort and pain? Cold water soaks and ice packs are believed to be the most helpful whereas warm water soaks are usually beneficial for milder inflammation. Alternating between hot and cold compresses may also be of aid.
- Warm water and ACV
Anecdotally, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and lemon juice are recommended as natural remedies. To try it out and see if they help you with gout, combine juice from one lemon and a cup of warm water. Add 2 tsp of turmeric powder and a tsp of ACV. Drink two to three cups on the daily.
- Magnesium
This dietary mineral is believed to be beneficial for gout sufferers as insufficient levels of it may worsen inflammation in the body. A study done in 2015 found that proper levels of magnesium is linked with low and healthy levels of uric acid. However, this was the case with men in the study, not with women. Elevate your magnesium levels by eating magnesium-rich foods or consult your physician for the best magnesium supplements for you.
- Cherries and tart cherry juice
In a study from 2016, it was concluded that cherries, no matter if they are sweet, sour, red or black, when in extract form, whether raw or juiced, are a potent home cure. Moreover, in two studies from 2012, it was found that cherries may be beneficial in preventing gout attacks. Opt for three servings of cherries every two days.
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