Amish Remedy for Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that results from too much uric acid in the tissues, blood and urine. The acid crystallizes in the joints and causes excruciating, throbbing pain. People who suffer from gout can't break down or get rid of the uric acid, which enters their system from certain foods. The sore points turn red, swollen and tender. Unfortunately, outbreaks can last for days, weeks or even longer. When treating gout, the Amish prefer to be self-sufficient and independent from traditional medicines.

Remedies

• The Amish are believers in homeopathic relief. Fruit is especially helpful in treating gout. Mix 8 oz. of water with 2 tbsp of tart cherry concentrate and drink it in the morning. The cherries will prevent collagen from breaking down, causing damage to connective tissue. Blueberries are also known to ease the pain associated with gout. The fruit is high in anthocyanins, which are anti-inflammatory compounds. Strawberries can also help because they neutralize uric acid. Eat a cup with each meal.

  Apply Unker's salve to the areas on your body that have gout. It's an old Amish remedy that eases pain and discomfort. The natural formula is made of oil of camphor, oil of pine needles, menthol crystals, eucalyptol oil and methyl salicylate. The traditional Unker's product is available on the market as well as a greaseless variety. It works to ease arthritis, gout, sore muscles and joints and bruises.

  Make a gout oil by combining 1 tbsp. crushed rosemary, 1 large crushed chili pepper, 3 tsp. crushed celery seeds and 250 ml oil. Use any oil except canola. Place all the ingredients in a sterilized clear glass jar. Close it and shake. Put it in a sunny spot for 10 days, making sure to shake it daily. Strain the oil into dark-colored, sterilized jars. Apply the oil to affected areas.

Furniture

• The Amish use a piece of furniture to treat gout aptly named the Gout Rocker. The rocking foot stool was once used for painful foot ailments because doctors recommend you raise your feet to alleviate pressure, pain and swelling. The piece can also be used as an accompaniment to any chair. It's handmade from wood and has a cushioned, cloth-covered top. Several stores that sell Amish furniture carry the Gout Rocker.

Acupressure

• Acupressure is another Amish remedy for gout. There are several trigger points to focus on to relieve symptoms. Use your fingers to press just below the center of your nostrils, above your upper lip. Massage both your feet, between the ball and the bottom of the big toe. On the left foot only, press and stimulate a point halfway between the heel pad and the base of the little toe. On your hands, massage the inside of the pad at the base of your thumbs, between the thumb and index finger. On the left hand only, find the point halfway between the base of the pinkie and the wrist. Massage it. Finally, use your fingers to massage the base of your skull. Focus on the underside of the area where it sticks out slightly. Push inward and upward.