Natural Remedies For Gout That Really Work

Turn Up the Heat

One of the reasons that gout is so painful is that the uric acid that has been built-up in the bloodstream crystallizes at low temperatures. When this happens, usually in the feet because they are generally colder than the rest of the body, the acid begins to harden and settles into the joints – especially that of the big toe. Using heat therapy can be both soothing to the pain and helpful in eliminating the uric acid crystals.

* Hot showers or foot soaks – the hot water is excellent for soothing stiff achy joints; add Epsom salts for an extra detoxifying effect

* Turmeric – known for its anti-inflammatory properties, found in capsule form

* Hot peppers – spicy fruits such as jalapeno, Serrano and Habanero also contain anti-inflammatory compounds

* Ginger – steeped in tea or added to soups and stir fries, it helps to detoxify and soothe pain

Be sure to keep your feet warm and dry when out and about, and put your feet up at the end of the day to promote healing. They deserve it.

Alkaline Attack

When the bloodstream has too much uric acid built up, it needs a little help changing it so that your body can get rid of it. Your body does not produce all the enzymes needed to break down uric acid, so you need to eat foods that alkalize your body and eliminate the excess acid.

* Dark leafy greens (collards, kelp, kale, turnip greens, arugula, mustard greens) naturally alkalize the bloodstream

* Ground flax seeds – great source of essential fatty acids

* Quinoa – a powerful antioxidant

* Celery – helps detoxify

* Fresh pineapple or papaya – contain enzymes that aid in digestion and elimination

These foods are easy to find and prepare, and are delicious as well. Try replacing some of the gout causing foods in your diet with these, and you will probably be able to enjoy a little bit of the off-limits foods from time to time.

Like all healing processes, you need to be consistent and allow for your body to gradually regain its health. Chances are you spent many years building up the toxic levels of uric acid in your body, so stick with these remedies for a few months and see if symptoms improve. Your body is capable of amazing healing if you support and nourish it properly.

Author

This article was written for Insights-on-Health.com in Oct 2013 by Vicki Wiepking. Vicki is a 2008 graduate of The McKay Method School of Energy Healing in Bozeman, MT, and a certified Flower Essence Practitioner. She is the owner of Rasa Deva Wellness in Bozeman, where she offers a unique combination of energy healing, flower essences and essential oils to her clients. Vicki currently teaches energy healing classes at both the McKay Method and HealthWorks Institute.

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