How to Ease a Gout Attack – 7 Natural Remedies That Work
Gout is a kind of arthritis and is known to cause pain that is similar to osteoarthritis. However, gout is caused when uric acid builds up in the blood. Excess uric acid in the bloodstream forms tiny crystals that accumulate in the joints and causes inflammation. Certain proven natural remedies can help alleviate the symptoms of gout.
Natural remedies for gout are mentioned below:
1. Ginger
According to a report in the International Journal of Scientific & Technology Research in 2017, ginger consumption and application reduced the scale of pain among gout patients. Ginger can be applied as a washcloth over the skin of the area, causing pain. Freshly grated ginger is added to a sufficient amount of boiling water to prepare the ginger washcloth. Let a washcloth soak in this mixture until cool enough for application. Apply this washcloth over the painful area for about 30 minutes. As ginger is pungent, there are possibilities of having a burning sensation over the area. Consumption of ginger helps alleviate pain. Add two teaspoons of freshly grated ginger to a cup of boiling water. A few cups of this can make one feel less pain.
2. Cherry
Cherry juice and cherries are a popular home remedy to prevent gout attacks. Prolonged consumption of cherry or cherry concentrate can successfully reduce the pain or keep gout away. During gout attacks, doctors recommend consuming three servings of any cherry for two days to reduce the gout pain significantly.
3. Celery seeds
Celery is widely used as a home remedy to treat urinary issues and gout. Two servings of celery extract or juice for two days is recommended to treat gout. Eating raw celery also works very well. It is a natural way to cleanse the kidneys and eliminates acid and waste deposits.
4. HibiscusÂ
Hibiscus tea has been enjoyed by many as a traditional herbal remedy. During gout attacks or to prevent them, people consume hibiscus tea regularly. According to a study in 2012, hibiscus was proven to reduce gout by eliminating excess uric acid from the blood.
5. Epsom salt
One of the most time-tested and effective ways of preventing gout attacks is by bathing in water mixed with Epsom salt regularly. Epsom salts are replete with magnesium, which reduces the risks of gout. To prepare the bath, mix two teaspoons of Epsom salt to the tub before having a bath.
6. Cold applications
During severe gout attacks, soaking the specific joint in the cold water has been considered effective by many. Ice packs or applying a cold, wet cloth also works very well.
7. Water
Among many remedial qualities, the consumption of water is beneficial during gout attacks. Water enhances kidney function and eliminates excess uric acid from the body.