Gout is caused due to an increase in the level of uric acid in the joints. Symptoms include redness, severe pain and swelling in the joints.
Ayurvedic Treatments
Giloy
It is one of the commonly used herbs in Ayurveda and its juice extract is used to reduce the levels of uric acid in the body.
Bitter Gourd
Bitter guard is commonly used to treat gas related ailments but it is prescribed to treat gout too.
Turmeric
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric and it is used to treat gout. A study found that curcumin can play an important role in treating gout inflammations. The study actually used Flexofytol, a purified version of curcumin to carry out the test. However, it would not help to reduce uric acid levels in the joints. Turmeric is safe and can be added to soups, curries and more. It can also be consumed by adding it into milk, often called Haldi milk or golden milk.
Triphala
Triphala is a Sanskrit word that means ‘three fruits’. It’s a treatment that uses three fruits, namely Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki. It has an anti-inflammatory benefit, which helps to reduce inflammation in the joints. Anyway, more research is required to prove the impact of Triphala in gout treatment.
Neem
Neem is used to reduce gout flare-ups and inflammation. Neem is usually made into a paste and applied to affected areas. According to recent studies, they have anti-inflammatory properties. It can be consumed either in capsule or oil form.
Cherries and Dark Berries
Ayurvedic practitioners now recommend dark berries and cherries in the diet to reduce uric acid levels in the body. A study found that consuming cherry juice can reduce uric levels in the body. Another study found that consuming 10 cherries per day could reduce gout flare by 35%.
Dietary Changes
Just like western medicines, ayurvedic treatments also require dietary changes. Both these treatments recommend avoiding high purine foods such as sugar, seafood, meat and alcohol which increases the level of uric acid in the body. Ayurvedic practitioners advise you to cut dairy products if you suffer from gout and some even recommend veganism.
Exercise
Ayurveda involves exercises like yoga to improve the overall health of a person. Since yoga helps to reduce stress, it, in turn, helps in reducing gout attacks. A study has proved that sweating helps to reduce uric acid levels in the body.
