Natural Remedies for Gout

There are many natural remedies for gout. Here’s a look at what causes the condition, how it can be treated and how future flare-ups can be prevented.

The formation of crystals containing uric acid is the cause of gout. Uric acid is normally excreted along with urine. In people with kidney disease and other health problems, the excretion of uric acid may be inefficient, causing it to build up in the bloodstream.

At one time, gout was called a "rich man’s disease" because rich, expensive foods and a sedentary lifestyle increase uric acid levels. On the other hand, it has also been called a "poor man’s disease" because high intake of ethanol (corn liquor) is one of the causes.

Many other risk factors exist, including high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease and type II diabetes. People with metabolic syndrome are more likely to develop the condition.

As time goes by, especially when the condition is poorly controlled, tophi can form.  These are deposits of crystallized uric acid.  Damage to the tissues and joints occurs as well.  So, controlling the disease is important.

Natural Remedies for Gout
Can Help You Regain the Joy of Motion

The first thing that most people want is pain relief. The condition can be so painful that even a blanket laid on the area can cause excruciating pain.

The gout natural remedies for pain relief include ice and heat. Regular intake of omega-3 acids from a quality supplement, potassium and chondroitin are also beneficial, but not always immediately effective. Like anything, healing takes time.

Green lipped mussel extract is promoted by many holistic doctors for pain relief. Researchers have verified that the compound does have anti-inflammatory effects and is safe for people who are not allergic to shell fish. Learn more about green lipped mussel extract.

There are a number of other natural anti-inflammatories, including piperine, found in black pepper, curcumin, found in turmeric and gingerol, found in ginger. Some of the better multi-nutritional supplements contain many of these.

The second type of natural remedies for gout are those aimed at lowering the blood uric acid content. The most important thing is to avoid foods high in purines, the dietary sources of uric acid. Foods to avoid include:

• Kidney, liver and other organ meats
• Lobster, crab, clams, oysters, scallops and other shellfish
• Any food or beverage containing high fructose corn syrup
• Soft drinks

Research indicates that the best diets to use along with gout natural remedies are those high in fruits, vegetables and plant foods, but low in meats.

Some foods and nutrients are beneficial for lowering uric acid levels and breaking up the crystals. Those include:

• Tart cherries, celery, celery seed and cheese
• Quercetin, vitamin B5, bromelain and vitamin C

Of course diet alone is not enough. You really need a supplement to speed your healing so you can get your life back. Look for a remedy that relieves pain quickly by reducing swelling and inflammation and flushing uric acid from the body. The supplement should contain antimonium crud (a homeopathic remedy), quercus, rhododendron, silicea, nux vom, ledum and benzoic ac. The best natural remedies for gout are very effective when combined with a proper diet and even recommended as treatments by mainstream practitioners. In addition to helping to prevent the pain, a supplement and diet low in fat, high in fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk of other diseases too.