Gout is an inflammatory disease caused when the excess uric acid in our body crystallizes around the joints. It is also caused by excess purine in our food that is invariably linked to rich food, meat, and alcohol. That is the reason may be gout was referred to as a disease of the kings. Arthritic pain has been long treated with home and natural remedies, and even today, doctors advise patients to use those time-tested remedies.

1. Have two liters of fluid every day
Count if you have to, set alarms, download apps, ask friends and family to remind you frequently. Drinking 8 cups of water throughout the day can help more than you can imagine. Water and juices of cherry, cucumber, carrot, or beetroot are all gout-friendly as well. Have fresh juices instead of packed products, as they can increase gout-related pain and symptoms.

2. Compress it
A hot or cold compress goes a long way in relieving gout-related pain. Wrap the spot with ice-filled cloth wrap or use a gel wrap for about 15 minutes. To prepare a hot compress, soak a towel in hot water, wear a pair of gloves, squeeze well, and place it on the painful spot. Additionally, use a hot water bottle. Alternating the hot and cold compress can ease the pain to a great extent.

3. Cherries all the way
There are records of cherries being used as a remedy for gout in Europe. Eat a bowl of about 20 cherries, as they can neutralize uric acid, help alleviate pain, and reduce other symptoms of gout.

4. Apples and banana
Apple has malic acid that can cut down the uric acid in the bloodstream, while potassium-rich bananas work the same way. Have an apple or banana in between meals to see relief.

5. Versatile baking soda
Drinking a glass of water with half a teaspoon of baking soda can reduce severe gout pain. When combined with active charcoal, baking soda has proven effective in lowering uric acid levels. Mix baking soda and active charcoal to a thick paste and apply it on the joints where there is severe pain. If you have hypertension or have been asked to be on a low salt diet, do not consume baking soda without your doctor’s advice.

6. Epsom bath
There was a time when Epsom was available in every pantry. Epsom baths, rinses, and soaks were used as remedies to cure stress and body pain. Heat the water for your bathtub and add two cups of Epsom salt, and immerse yourself until the water is warm. If the pain is too much, you can also soak your feet in water with Epsom salt for immediate relief.

7. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is yet another century-old, time-tested home remedy. Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with organic honey and consume it twice a day. It will be about two hours before you can feel the pain going down. If you are taking medication or insulin for diabetes, or medication for hypertension or cardiovascular diseases, exercise caution, as it can interfere with medication.