Gout Remedies
Gout is a painful condition affecting the joints of the body, usually the big toe, but it also affects other areas of the body such as the ankles, wrists, fingers and even the ears. The symptoms of gout generally first appear very rapidly, with sudden acute pain, tenderness and swelling of the affected joints, occasionally a reddish tinge to the skin, and in some cases symptoms like fever and rapid heartbeat.
Gout is caused by a build up of excess uric acid in the body, which crystallizes in the affected joints. There are a few risk factors for developing gout, including a family history of the illness, kidney disease, obesity, overindulgence in alcohol, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, joint injury and surgery. Raised uric acid levels in the body are also a side effect of certain medications, for example insulin, cyclosporine, aspirin and a few antibiotics. In addition certain foods increase uric acid levels, for example shellfish, red meat and anchovies.
Conventional gout medications can have very unpleasant side effects, which is why many people are turning to natural gout remedies. Thankfully many inexpensive and simple natural remedies for gout are available. Various herbal remedies for gout are available, including Vitamin C supplements and cherry juice. Vitamin C supplements aid in the reduction of excess uric acid in the body. The way in which cherry juice helps gout sufferers has not yet been established, however a daily dose of two to three teaspoons of black cherry juice is said to be extremely beneficial for some gout sufferers.
In addition to herbal medicine, homeopathy can also be effective in treating gout. Many people are opting for homeopathic remedies because they are gentle remedies, and completely safe for adults as well as children. There are a few different homeopathic remedies for gout available, different ones working best for different symptoms. Arnica is good for joints which are painful and tender to the touch. Belladonna is helpful for joints that feel hot, swollen and throbbing. Sulphur can be used for itchy painful joints, and burning sensations in the feet.
In addition to herbal and homeopathic remedies, there are also many foods which are said to be beneficial for gout. Eating at least one apple a day is said to be highly beneficial. Half a cup of juice extracted from french beans is also reputed to bring immense relief from gout symptoms. You could also try drinking a mixture of apple cider vinegar and honey for pain relief. It is also extremely important to drink sufficient fluid, at least six to eight glasses a day, as this flushes the body of toxins and urate crystals.
Natural gout remedies are not limited to oral remedies. There are also a few remedies which can be applied to the affected area of the body to bring about relief. One part mustard powder and one part whole wheat powder, made into a paste with a little water, is said to bring relief when applied to the affected joint. You could also try soaking a flannel in warm castor oil and placing it over the affected area. Temporary relief from gout pain can be had by applying ice to the affected areas.
