Natural relief from gout

Gout is a form of arthritis resulting from a change of uric acid in the body, this can be inherited or can occur from stress, crash dieting, or using diuretics. It causes the uric acid naturally produced by the body to accumulate in the joints and form crystals- causing inflammation and swelling. Joints that are affected are the big toe, fingers, ankle, elbow and wrist. In chronic gout arthritis the uric crystals spread and all the joints may become sore and stiff.

Uric acid is normally flushed away by the kidneys, however if the body lacks a certain digestive enzyme known as uricase, uric acid starts to accumulate  in the blood and tissues, forming sharp needle-shaped crystals which jab and push their way into the joints.

While the people most affected are men this disease sometimes attacks women after menopause. Women who feel “aches in there joints” or “swelling” especially after dieting or using diuretics should talk to their doctor about possible onset of gout. Crash dieting more than 3 days can increase the level of uric acid in the body.

Symptoms of gout are easily recognized; severe pain, inflammation that’s red and burning to the touch. Gout was called the rich man’s disease because eating rich foods and drinking alcohol is one of the main causes.

There is natural relief that you can get by using oils, herbal supplements, and medicinal teas. Treatment for gout using essential oils can bring relief- Benzoin compress, it is a warming essential oil known for its ability to heal irritated or inflamed skin, Wintergreen paste-used for painful, swollen, or inflamed joints, and Clove compress- is an antiseptic oil which numbs pain and eases gout.

Medicinal teas are also very beneficial for easing gout symptoms- Celery-seed helps the kidneys to dispose of uric acid. Birch-leaf has a diuretic effect and drinking the tea will increase urination. Slippery elm, Sage, fenugreek, turmeric, and white willow are all excellent for relief of gout symptoms.

Using herbal supplements can be helpful- Burdock- reduces swelling, Frankenses- provides relief from inflammation.

Tinctures work quickly- Alfalfa, buckhorn, cayenne, oregano, dandelion all work well to bring relief to gout symptoms. Devils claw eases achy joints by reducing the pain.

Since rich foods can trigger gout it is best to avoid them and eat only raw fruits and vegetables. Stay away from red meats, meat gravies, mushrooms, herring, and limit your caffeine intake. Juniper berries are great for gout due to their powerful anti-inflammatory abilities.

To prevent gout take vitamins A and E and vitamin B-complex to prevent any deficiencies this can bring on an attack of gout. Always consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplements.