A buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, especially the big toe, which becomes red, inflamed and very painful. Gout is often an inherited condition. though it may also result from kidney malfunction, blood disorders, overindulgence in rich food and alcohol, or some drugs.

Treatment - Dietary

Reduce intake of foods which stimulate the production of uric acid: fatty fish, anchovies, shellfish, meat and meat stock, caffeine (coffee, tea, cola, chocolate). Cherries have been found to relieve symptoms. Eat at least half a pound daily if available. Take 1 g of vitamin C daily. Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol, which increases uric acid production. Charcoal tablets can help reduce uric acid levels: take 1 tablet 4 times daily.

Herbal

Celery seed increases the elimination of uric acid: pour a cup of water on 2 teaspoons of crushed seeds, infuse for 15 minutes and drink 3 times daily.

Homeopathy

To be taken every 15 minutes for up to 4 doses and repeated if necessary:

Joint feels cold but is alleviated by cold bathing: Ledum 6c. Joint very painful, especially at night, patient very irritable and sensitive to rudeness: Colchicum 6c. Joint feels bruised, terrified of being approached in case the toe is touched: Arnica 6c. Urtica urens tincture, 3 drops in a little water twice daily will help to eliminate uric acid.

Hydrotherapy

Apply an ice pack to the painful area: wrap ice cubes or a bag of frozen peas in kitchen paper and hold on the joint for 3-5 minutes at regular intervals.

Reflexology

Massage of the area affected by gout will be painful, therefore reflexologists direct treatment at the ‘zone related area’, that is, a corresponding area in the body which links up to the reflexes of the affected area. In the case of gout, massage would be carried out on the hands and fingers on the same side as the affected foot.

Orthodox

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are given to relieve pain and inflammation.