Herbs for gout

What is gout and why does it occur?

Gout is a type of arthritis, which can affect anyone and which is characterized by the sudden and intolerable pain in the joints, followed by redness and tenderness. It often affects the base of the big toe, and the fact is that men are a bit more susceptible to gout, as well as women after the menopause. The cause of gout is the accumulation of urate crystals around the joint, which causes the inflammation and the pain, and this accumulation occurs when the body produces more uric acid than necessary, or when kidneys excrete too little of it.

Herbs that can help with gout

Besides with medicines and change of a diet, some cases of gout can be treated successfully with herbs, which are used either in the form of powder, tincture or tea. Some of them have to be taken regularly ever day, and among them are alfalfa, which lowers the level of uric acid in the body, thus preventing gout attacks; red clover, which helps with the inflammation of the joints and prevents serious problems; and triphala, which is known for its anti-inflammatory characteristics and which strengthens pancreas and liver. The herbs that are also frequently used are dandelion root, which is helpful in cleaning the body of additional uric acid and devils claw, which is used in order to relieve the pain and reduce the swelling in cases of gout.

Cherries lower the levels of uric acid, so they should be added to the diet, as well as blackberries, blueberries and other fruits that have dark color. Vitamin C has the same effect, which is why it is important to consume a lot of fruits and vegetables that contain it. Leukotriene is a substance that is connected with the inflammation, and since its production can be reduced by flaxseed, celery and avocados, they should be consumed.

It is important to mention that, when it comes to the treatment with herbs, the patients who decide on this option should know that it usually takes some time to feel the benefits of their use. So they should not give up on herbal treatment if there are no any results after a few days. Also, it is important to use the herbs in the right manner. Then to know what can be expected from each herb, because for example, some are only used in a form of tea, and they only have the effect on relieving the symptoms, while others are effective in preventing the future bouts of gout.