Gout is a type of arthritis that tends to attack joints and body parts such as ears, wrists, knuckles, ankles and other small joints. It causes a painful swelling and inflammation in the affected joints. However, it mainly affects the big toe, causing an increased swelling and redness in the area. The causes of gout may include a lack of exercise, high levels of uric acid in the blood, genetics, excessive consumption of meat and alcohol, being overweight, and stress.
The deposition of uric acid crystals in the joint causes inflammation which makes joint movements painful. This inflammation induces swelling, making it a distressing ordeal. The elevated level of uric acid also leads to the deposition of crystals in the kidney, which can cause stone formation.
Here is a list of best treatments for gout, to help you recover from gout attacks. All of these are home remedies and are easily available.
- Water
What could be better than drinking water! Drinking ample of water not only helps you maintain your body’s metabolism but is also a great solution for various disorders. Drink a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated, and to flush out the excessive uric acid from your system. - Cherries
Cherries are rich in antioxidants, and they tend to lower the uric acid levels considerably. They also contain anthocyanins, which bring down the swelling and reduce the inflammation. It is advised that you eat them on a daily basis to control your gout symptoms and to avoid gout attacks in the future. - Turmeric and ginger
Ginger roots and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties, which offer considerable relief to your joint pains. You can include turmeric and ginger in your everyday meals, or eat a bit of it as is. - Baking soda
Baking soda is known for its alkalinity. Increasing the alkalinity in your body will lower the levels of uric acid. This will help decrease the inflammation levels in the body. - Bananas
Bananas are rich in potassium, which help in dissolving the uric acid crystals. This way, they exit your body through urine, decreasing the inflammation in your joints. Have a banana after a meal every day to bring down the tenderness and pain. - Apple
Eating an apple everyday neutralizes uric acid, because of the abundance of malic acid in the fruit. - Epsom salt
An Epsom salt bath makes an effective remedy for gout. Epsom salts contain high levels of magnesium that aid in lowering the inflammation of joints and relieves pain. - Activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb substances. It absorbs uric acid and is known to be one of the best treatments for gout. You can take a bath using activated charcoal or apply its paste topically on the affected area. - Pineapples
Pineapples contain a compound called bromelain. Bromelain helps by regulating the levels of uric acid and decreases the swelling as well. Bromelain mainly consists of Vitamin C, which is known to be remedial for gout. - Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for gout attacks. The acidity of the vinegar neutralizes the swelling and inflammation of the joints, and its alkalinity brings the uric acid levels down considerably. For effective results, drink ACV every day. - Celery seeds
Celery seeds extract uric acid and prevent gout recurrences. Celery seeds stimulate the kidneys to function efficiently. This causes your kidneys to expel the extra uric acid out of the body. - Lemon juice
The acidity of lemon juice is beneficial for people suffering from gout attacks. Lemon juice neutralizes uric acid in the bloodstream, thus reducing pain. Drink three glasses of lemon juice every day to gain relief from the discomfort. - Vitamin C
Fruits rich in Vitamin C are most commonly recommended for gout. Vitamin C strengthens and repairs your body’s tissues. This prevents and relieves joint inflammatory pains. - Exercise
Exercise not only keeps your body fit but also helps regulate your blood flow. The movement of body tissues helps bring down the swelling levels. Just ensure that you don’t strain your joints. Therefore, adopt low-stamina exercises like walkjing, stretching, cycling, and swimming
Apart from the home remedies mentioned above, ensure that you avoid habits like excessive consumption of alcohol and eating fast food. Such lifestyle habits can make your treatments ineffective and recovery slower. If you don’t seem to achieve substantial results from home treatments for gout, then seek medical assistance quickly. With the help of pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs and therapies, your doctor can help you treat gout efficiently.
