Natural Cures for Gout

If you're looking for natural cures for gout, you'll be pleased to discover there are several ways to manage gout without the use of prescription drugs. Try these gout remedies for relief.

Elevate the Affected Joint
By elevating the joint, you'll relieve unnecessary blood pressure from the affected area. Get plenty of rest as you wait for your body to release the excess uric acid that has formed the painful crystals that have settled in your joint.

Drink Lots of Water
Drink as much water as you can stomach. Gout is caused by too much uric acid in the system, and drinking water will flush out the uric acid.

Eat Fresh Cherries
There is no scientific explanation behind why eating cherries helps many gout sufferers, but a cup of cherries a day staves off the painful episodes for many people.

Apply a Charcoal Poultice
Combine ½ cup of powdered charcoal with ¼ cup ground flaxseed. Mix in warm water until it becomes a thick paste. Apply the paste to the joint, then wrap securely in a bandage or towel. Activated charcoal is best for this remedy because it draws out toxins. Watch out, though, as it does stain clothing.

Charcoal Foot Soak
In an old bowl or basin, mix activated charcoal with hot water. Use just enough to soak the affected joint or joints. Soak your foot for between a half hour and hour.

Ice Your Joint
Wrap your joint in a cool gel pack or surround the joint with ice wrapped in a towel for relief.

Reduce Niacin Intake
Large doses of niacin can cause build up of uric acid, triggering gout.

Beware of Rapid Weight Loss
Rapid weight loss can trigger gout because the breaking down of fat correlates with the release of uric acid into the bloodstream. Be careful to lose weight slowly so you can avoid episodes of gout.