Gout is a recurring disease for which there is not a cure. Uric acid buildup in the body causes gout, and flushing it out of the system is the most effective way to eliminate its symptoms. Fortunately, there are many free and easy-to-obtain ways gout sufferers can treat symptoms and relieve pain.
Water
Water may be the single most important remedy to easing gout symptoms. It will help flush uric acid out of the system. Drink at least 16 oz. of water daily every couple of hours when gout begins to flare up. Try mixing baking soda with water for more effective results. This is a natural antacid and will neutralize uric acid. For every 8 oz. of water, mix half a teaspoon of . Neutralized acid is easier to flush out out of the system.
Vitamins and Herbs
Vitamins and herbs are natural ways to treat gout. Alfalfa is a medicinal herb that is chock full of nutrients and minerals, and it will neutralize . Alfalfa is available as a fresh or dried leaf. One ounce of dried leaves can be steeped in one pint of water for about 20 minutes to make tea. Two cups of this tea daily can help relieve fluid retention and swelling caused by gout. Most take it in pill form as a capsule of powdered alfalfa or as a tablet. Alfalfa leaves and pills can be found at any specialty food store such as Whole Foods or vitamin shops.
Vitamin C can also decrease level of uric acid in the body. Fruits such as apples, oranges, grapefruits, mangoes and nectarines are high in Vitamin C. Vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and spinach are also high in Vitamin C.
Charcoal
There are two ways charcoal can be used as an external remedy for gout: as a poultice and as a charcoal bath. To make a charcoal poultice, mix a half-cup of powdered charcoal with 3 tablespoons of flaxseed in a blender. Gradually add warm water to create a smooth paste. Cover the affected joint with paste, and cover with a cloth you don't mind getting stained. This option is ideal for overnight use. For a daytime remedy, a charcoal bath is optimal. Use a large bowl or other basin that you don't mind and place a half-cup of charcoal into it. Put your ailing joint into the basin, and add warm water until the joint is completely covered. Soak the area for a half-hour to an hour.
See Your Doctor
If your gout condition is serious and not able to be relieved by the aforementioned remedies, it is time to seek advice from your doctor. They may prescribe NSAID (nonstereoid antiflammatory drug) pain relievers or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, NSAIDs may be taken in small doses to prevent future gout attacks. Sometimes doctors may recommend losing weight for gout sufferers whom are overweight, as well as reduction of alcohol intake and certain foods that increase uric acid. Most often, a combination of therapies and medicine may work so that gout symptoms are controlled.
Tags: uric acid, baking soda, charcoal bath, getting stained, gout sufferers