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In Part 1 of this article, we looked at some natural gout remedies. Now, in part 2, I'll share some common gout treatments that may be growing in your own front yard!

Dandelions

The two main functions of using dandelion medicinally are to promote the formation of bile and to remove excess water from the body. It is also considered to improve inflammatory and rheumatic conditions. Fresh, young dandelion leaves have high vitamin A and C content. When eaten raw in salads, they help turn the body repair damaged tissue. Dandelion wine is also considered to have therapeutic benefits for gout. If making dandelion wine sounds like a chore, a simple recipe is to mash one cup of flowers and add it to four cups of white wine. Let it sit for a month then strain and sweeten to taste if necessary.

Devils Claw

This edible herb (found in health food stores in dried, powder, or tablet form) provides pain relief similar to cortisone as the root acts mainly as an anti-inflammatory. Clinical research indicates that devils claw may be of benefit in the prevention of gout in addition to relieving joint pain, it also reduces serum cholesterol and uric acid levels.

Gravel root

Gravel root stimulates the elimination of uric acid. It is primarily used for kidney stones, urinary infections, rheumatism, and gout. To prepare the gravel root, add one teaspoon of the herb into a cup of water, bring to a boil, and simmer for ten minutes. It is recommended that you drink this three times a day for effectiveness.

Juniper berry

Juniper Berry is also known by the names juniper bush and juniper bark. It is a diuretic herb that helps reduce uric acid. The anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial for relieving pain and inflammation related to arthritis. It comes in capsules or as a tea.

Stinging nettle

Stinging nettle has been used since ancient times for medicinal purposes. I medieval Europe it was used in diuretics and remedies for joint pain. It has also been used in some cultures in a whipping fashion to stimulate the organs and relieve the pain of sore muscles.

The nettles stinging hairs contain the chemicals histamine and formic acid, which irritate the skin on contact. But if the nettles contact an area already in pain, the chemicals can decrease it. In this process the nettle is a counter-irritant.

Some German researchers have shown that nettle can relieve the pain of gout. The study concluded that nettle may facilitate the movement of uric acid from the joints and help elimination through the kidneys. Nettle root is also considered beneficial for gout and is available at most health food stores.

Turmeric

Turmeric, an essential ingredient in curry powder, is a close relative of ginger. Because of its powerful anti-inflammatory action it is used medicinally for inflammatory conditions like gout. As one teaspoon or more of the powdered spice, three times a day, would be needed to reap the health benefits, most people opt for capsules or liquid extracts.

Conclusion

Some people swear by natural remedies and others believe they are of little or no value. Experimenting yourself after discussing any potential side effects with your doctor will be the best way to determine what works for you.

And remember, most cases of gout can be prevented completely by switching to a predominantly whole-foods, plant-based diet.

Howie Jacobson, PhD, is the author of How to Prevent and Relieve Gout, a People's Publication from the Vital Health Institute. The book contains information on the latest scientific discoveries, evaluations of drugs and herbal remedies, folk remedies, and GoutBusting recipes. Download and read or listen to your free copy of Chapter 1 at http://www.vitalhealthinstitute.com/gout

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