Gout
This
is a condition of inflammation in the peripheral digits, usually
the big toe, but it can also occur in the hands and in other organs
of the body. The joint becomes locally swollen, inflamed, and very
painful as a result of uric acid crystal deposit that, by force
of gravity, tend to precipitate out of the blood plasma at the lowest
point possible. It is important to treat promptly both for pain
reduction and to avoid spread.
Treatment
Goal(s):
· Reduce inflammation and swelling, increase diuresis, adjust
diet.
Primary Treatment:
· Colchium autumnale (Saffron crocus) is the most effective
treatment, but should be used with extreme caution due to the potentially
toxic (but also curative) alkaloids present in it. Use a dose of
50mg to 100mg of dried, powdered plant 3-5 times daily. Do not use
for over 48 hours. It will quickly relieve the symptoms.
· Administer a good herbal diuretic blend consisting of Apium
graveolens (Celery seed), Solidago canadensis (Goldenrod) and Urtica
diotica (Nettle) in tea form.
Supportive Treatment:
· Use cool compresses to alleviate pain in the short-term.
· Adjust the diet to reduce consumption of purine-rich foods
such as red and organ meats and red wines) and consider an elimination
diet to isolate other aggravating factors.
· Ensure plenty of water (at least ½ of body weight,
in ounces of water) is consumed. Suggest increasing the consumption
of dietary diuretics such as asparagus and parsley.
Differential
diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· Monitor the kidneys for any sign of pain, which may indicate
crystal deposit in the area.
· Monitor the patient closely for the initial 48 hours of
treatment to watch for signs of nausea, dizziness, or other unexplained
symptoms. Discontinue Colchium immediately in this case.
