Gout is acute pain, swelling, intense tenderness and inflammation in the joints. It usually appears in the elderly but it also appear in younger individuals.
A high amount of uric acid is the most commonly the cause of getting gout. Also genetics, alcohol and lack of exercise can be a cause. Gout can also be associated with hypertension, diabetes and uric acid kidney stones.
Here are some home treatments that can help heal gout and relieve its symptoms.
1. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Apple cider vinegar, which is used to treat headaches and acid stomach, also helps treat gout and arthritis. The acidity in apple cider vinegar will help relieve acute pain. You can also add honey to the remedy to boost the body’s anti-inflammatory response.
- Mix one teaspoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.
- Drink it two to three times daily.
If you find this remedy helpful, you can increase the dosage of apple cider vinegar to up to two tablespoons.
2. GINGER ROOT
The anti-inflammatory properties present in ginger root can be very helpful in relieving pain and inflammation. There are many ways to use ginger root in the treatment of gout.
- Mix equal amounts of fenugreek powder, turmeric powder and dried ginger root powder (sonth). Have one teaspoon of this mixture along with warm water. Take it twice daily.
- You can simply add ginger root in cooking recipes, or eat a small, raw piece of ginger root daily.
- You can also add one-half teaspoon of ginger root to one cup of boiling water and mix it well. Drink this solution at least once daily.
- Another option is to make a paste of ginger root with a little water and apply this paste on the affected area. Leave it on for about half an hour. Do this once daily.
3. BAKING SODA
One significant factor contributing to gout is an increase of uric acid in the body. Baking soda can help lower the amount of uric acid, giving you relief from the pain.
- Mix one-half teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water.
- Drink this solution four times a day but not more than that.
- Continue up to two weeks.
If you are above 60 years, do not take more than three times in a day. Also, ignore this remedy if you suffer from hypertension.
4. LEMON JUICE
To get relief from gout pain, it is essential to alkalize the body and neutralize the excess uric acid in blood stream. This can be done easily with fresh lemon juice and baking soda. Along with lemon juice, also eat other fruits rich in vitamin C to strengthen the body tissues.
- Mix the juice of one lemon with one-half teaspoon of baking soda. Let it sit for a few seconds until the fizzing stops, and then mix it in a glass of water. Drink it immediately.
- Another option is to add the juice of half a lemon to a glass of water and drink it three times a day.
5. CHERRIES
Cherries, whether sweet or sour, can also be very helpful in treating gout due to their antioxidant properties. Cherries also contain anthocyanins, which can reduce inflammation as well as minimize gout flare-ups.
- For gout patients, eating 15 to 20 cherries a day is highly recommended. For better results, start your day with some cherries.
- Another option is to drink a glass of black cherry juice daily. You can also add a few minced garlic cloves in it.