Would you like to know how to treat gout naturally?
Gout is a condition produced by the accumulation of microscopic crystals of uric acid in the joints. These crystals form bulges under the skin or are deposited in the urinary tract.
In this article, we’ll talk about gout, its causes and its symptoms. We’ll also give you very useful advice and natural remedies to treat gout and to prevent triggering this problem.
The Causes of Gout
There are many possible reasons why this condition develops. Some include:
- Increased uric acid in the blood
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- High quantities of foods containing uric acid (seafood, for example)
- Alcohol abuse
- In some cases, fatigue and emotional stress.
The constant destruction and formation of cells, just like the ingestion of certain foods, produces a certain quantity of uric acid in the blood. The body usually eliminates it with the help of the kidneys.
However, when this doesn’t work, uric acid levels rise abnormally. Crystals form and are deposited in the joints, giving way to episodes of sharp pain.
The Symptoms of Gout
Gout can case different symptoms depending on its advancement:
- Initially, only one or more joints may become affected. This tends to be the big toe, the knee or the ankle. This attack may disappear in the span of a few days, but may return once in a while.
- In general terms, the pain tends to happen at night and is acute and unbearable.
- Typically, the affected joint is hot and red (inflamed). In general, it tends to also be sensitive and swollen.
- It can produce a fever.
After the first attack the gout, its symptoms tend to disappear. Nevertheless, many people who have this condition may experience another attack within 6 to 12 months afterward.
On the other hand, some people can develop chronic gout. This may lead to joint damage and loss of mobility in certain joints.
The Types of Gout
Overall, there are three classifications for gout:
- Acute gout: This is a painful condition that normally affects only one joint.
- Chronic gout: It occurs when the episodes of pain are repetitive and cause inflammation.
- Pseudo-gout: This is characterized by intermittent attacks of pain and arthritis which are caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals.
Prevention
Fortunately, the factors that trigger gout can be prevented and avoided. Here’s a few tips:
- Drink a lot of liquids (avoid alcoholic drinks) and eat a diet rich in grains, vegetables and carbohydrates.
- Reduce your intake of foods high in purines (seafood, red meat, and fatty fish).
- As far as medications, a daily low dose of colchicine can prevent attacks or at least reduce their frequency.
Home Remedies to Treat Gout Naturally
1. Stinging nettle infusion
This plant is diuretic and is recommended when levels of uric acid in the blood are elevated.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. of stinging nettle
- 1 cup of water
Directions:
- Heat the water with the stinging nettle to a boil.
- When it reaches a boil, turn off heat and allow to steep for a few minutes.
- Drink the infusion 2 to 3 times a day.
2. Dandelion, friar crown, and green anise tea to treat gout
Dandelion has diuretic and cleansing properties, while friar crown has a protective effect in gout cases and green anise has anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, they together help eliminate uric acid in the blood and treat gout.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. of dandelion
- 1 tbsp. of friar crown
- 3 cups of water
- 1 tbsp. of green anise
Directions:
- Heat the water and add the herbs.
- Turn the heat off once the water boils.
- Allow to steep for 5 to 7 minutes before pouring into a cup to drink.
- Drink this up to three times per day.
Via: Express | VeryWellHealth
