There are some people who will swear by the effectiveness of certain natural remedies for gout. These however should always be approached with some caution. This is not to say that only medications are effective for gout. There are however, some good reasons for being careful with natural remedies for gout.

• The advantage of medicines over natural remedies is that medicines have been extensively and carefully studied, tested and manufactured so that they will meet FDA standards. Not all natural remedies for gout have been widely studied or proven safe and effective. Some of these remedies may also not come with clear standards for quantity and frequency of intake.

• Gout patients may have different degrees of gout intensity. Some may also have other medical conditions and may be under medication for them. Some natural remedies for gout of the herbal type might not be advisable when under certain medications.

• Some natural remedies for gout may not work for you as much as it does for another individual. This may only delay gout treatment and increase the risk of complications.

If you do decide to try natural remedies for gout, be sure to be open and candid with your doctor about it. If you have chosen potentially dangerous options, your doctor could warn you about it. Here are some common natural remedies for gout that others have tried but may or may not work for you:

• Cherries are often part of lists of natural remedies. It is believed that these fruits can decrease uric acid, ease inflammation and strengthen connective tissues. Different sources however recommend different ways and amounts in which cherries should be taken.

• Not all lists for natural remedies for gout contain ice compresses. Ice can generally ease the pain of gout and possibly decrease swelling but it could also promote urate crystal formation. For others, ice could make pain worse. It is therefore usually advisable to apply ice only moderately.

• Not surprisingly, drinking a lot of water may actually work to your advantage. Water does lessen the concentration of uric acid and can also help effectively flush out uric acid.

• Some herbs like devil’s claw are believed to be helpful natural remedies for gout. Various herbs may help relieve pain, inflammation and may lower uric acid levels. As mentioned though, some herbs may actually be dangerous to take without your doctor’s knowledge.

• Vitamin C can lower uric acid levels but only when taken appropriately and as indicated by the doctor. This natural remedy might actually work against a gout patient if overdone.

• The best possible natural remedies for gout are keeping one’s weight within the ideal range and avoiding foods and drinks that could increase uric acid levels. These include alcohol and some meats and seafood.