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Gout is a well known, yet not as common form of arthritis caused
by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints, causing joint
pain and inflammation.
People whose body's produce too much
uric acid or are not able to effectively eliminate uric acid from
the body are at very high risk of contracting gout. The most common
site for uric acid accumulation is in the big toe, although other
joints may also be affected by crystalline buildup of uric
acid.
While sometimes consistent, pain caused by gout can
come and go and arise suddenly without warning. Joints affected with
gout are usually red, swollen, and especially tender. Gout can also
be accompanied by mild fever.
Natural remedies for
gout
While acute gout attacks are usually treated
with the prescription drug colchicine and non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin (Indocin®) and
naproxen sodium (Anaprox®), there are a number of natural remedies
that may help those with gout. These include the following:
- Vitamin C -
may increase in urinary excretion of uric acid within a few hours
when 4 g are taken daily. Might lower risk of gout attack.
- Folic Acid -
may help to reduce uric acid levels
- Quercetin -
may inhibit an enzyme involved in the development of
gout
Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) is the
herb originally used to produce the prescription drug colchicine.
Both the herb and the drug are toxic and should be used only under
the guidance of a doctor.
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