Home Remedies for Gout - Treating Your Gout With Epsom Salts
By: John Cielo
Submitted: 2012-01-06 07:56:10 | Word Count: 518
One of the home remedies for gout that I haven't tried is Epsom salts. So I have no direct experience of its effectiveness. But I have done a deal of research and have found many instances where people have spoken about how well it worked for them, and I have discovered many health articles on the subject which also seem to speak highly of it.
So, bearing in mind that I cannot vouch for its effectiveness -- although I've no reason to believe that it isn't as good as people say -- here's a summary of factors you should be aware of...
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What is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt has been with us for a considerable period of time and is named after the town called Epsom in England, U.K. where it was first distilled from the natural springs in that area. Epsom salt is a pure mineral compound called 'magnesium sulphate.'
It is readily available in supermarkets, pharmacies and grocery stores. The salt comes in crystal form as well as a gel. It has many medical uses, for example, as a laxative, for certain skin complaints, to treat aches and pains, and many others. It also has beauty and household benefits.
What Are the Benefits of Epsom Salts in the Treatment of Gout?
It is known that magnesium sulphate can be readily absorbed into the skin...
Magnesium is important to the body's health because it regulates the activity of more than 300 enzymes. It helps to reduce muscle inflammation and pain, and aids the proper functioning of nerves.
Sulphates help to improve the adsorption of nutrients and flush toxins out of the body. It is said that they also help to excrete uric acid out through the skin.
All of these things can help in treating your gout symptoms.
How is Epsom Salt Used to Treat Gout?
You can treat gout by applying a compress to the affected area. Add 2 cups of salts to 1 gallon of warm water and stir until dissolved. Immerse a cloth or towel in the mix until totally saturated. Wrap the material around the affected joint, and keep in place for around 20 minutes or so.
You can also make up a foot bath by adding 1/2 cup of Epsom salts to a basin of hot water. Test the temperature before putting your foot in. If the temperature is comfortable, then soak your foot for 20 to 30 minutes.
Finally you can have an Epsom salt bath. Just add 2 full cups of salts to a warm bath and soak and relax for 20 to 30 minutes.
Note: Several times I came across folks who reported that the effect of Epsom salts was enhanced by adding some raw apple cider vinegar to the mixes.
