Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night with tender or swollen joints? It could be a gout attack and there are many ways to treat it. The symptoms of a gout attack can include intense joint pain, lingering discomfort, inflammation, redness and limited range of motion. Gout can be treated with medicine or naturally. The natural way to treat gouty arthritis is through a gout diet which consists mostly of low purine foods. Here is a list of natural remedies for gout attacks:

1. Cherries or tart cherry juice

According to recent studies, cherries of any kind (sour, sweet, red, black, in extract form, as a juice, or raw) can prevent gout attacks. The recommended serving that is said to be the most effective is three servings of any cherry form over a two-day period.

2. Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency is a huge factor in the worsening of chronic inflammatory stress in the body. Making sure you have an adequate amount of magnesium in your body can lower your levels of uric acid. Which in turn lowers your gout risk. This can be achieved by eating magnesium rich foods or taking a magnesium supplement.

3. Ginger

Ginger is often used as an anti-inflammatory, which gives it the potential to help gout. Studies show that ginger has the ability to reduce serum uric acid levels in the body. Ginger can be taken internally by boiling water and steeping ginger root. It can also be made into a ginger paste or compress and rubbed onto the irritated areas.

4. Celery or celery seeds

Celery is often used to treat urinary issues. But it has also become popular for treating gout. Celery has long been thought to reduce inflammation. Celery can be consumed through raw celery sticks, juice, extract, seeds and supplements.

5. Nettle tea

This tea is an herbal remedy for gout that can reduce inflammation and pain. Studies show that it also can give protection to the kidneys.

6. Dandelion

Dandelion can help to improve liver and kidney health. It can also help lower uric acid levels. Dandelion can be consumed in the forms of dandelion tea, dandelion extract, or a dandelion supplement.

7. Milk thistle

Milk thistle is traditionally used to boost liver health. But studies suggest that it can lower uric acid levels. Milk thistle can be taken in the form of a supplement.

8. Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a folk remedy that has been used to treat gout. Studies show that it can lower uric acid levels. Hibiscus can be taken in the form of a supplement, tea, or extract.

9. Ice pack or heating pad

Sometimes simply icing down the affected area can help tremendously. Alternatively a heat pad can be used. Heat pads are only recommended when inflammation isn’t intense.

10. Epsom salts

Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which can lower the risk of gout attacks. Simply mix in a cup or two into your bath and soak the affected area or whole body.