How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that typically affects middle-aged people. A condition of the joints, the disease is a result of a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints and the symptoms include severe pain with swelling and redness in the affected area. Research says that eating several foods can trigger an attack, and avoiding them may help you avoid the pain.

Why Apple Cider Vinegar for Gout is an Effective Option

One of the best remedies is apple cider vinegar for gout because it works to break down the uric acid crystals and prevents them forming again in the joints. Because ACV can promote blood circulation in the body and purifies your blood, it can reduce inflammation and swelling. By using ACV regularly, you may also note better flexibility in the joints and easier movement.

Read ahead for some of the most effective methods to use apple cider vinegar for gout.

Taking ACV Internally

You can try different ways to consume ACV that will give you relief from gout along with several other health benefits. Try these methods:

• The easiest way to use ACV is to drink it with a glass of water to dilute the sour taste. Never drink ACV without diluting because its acidic nature can cause tooth decay and burn the esophagus. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons in a glass of warm water and drink it 2 to 3 times a day. If you’re not diabetic, adding a teaspoon of organic honey will add to the therapeutic effects. And, if you absolutely cannot stand the taste without sweetener, consider adding natural stevia in place of synthetic sweetening agents.
• Combine a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 250 ml of cherry juice. If you can extract the juice at home or find an organic product without added sugar, you can safely take it even if you’re diabetic. Have this solution twice a day.
• In place of cherry juice, you can use fresh blueberry juice, grape juice, or strawberry juice as natural sweeteners when taking apple cider vinegar for gout.
• Mix 2 tablespoons of ACV with one-fourth of a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of warm water. Drinking this blend twice a day can help you with the pain.
• Sprinkle ACV on your salads along with olive oil to add to the taste and health benefits.

Using ACV for Topical Applications

Depending on the particular area where you’re sensing pain, you can try any of these topical applications of apple cider vinegar for gout with excellent results:

• Fill a shallow pan with 4 cups of hot water and add 1 cup of ACV. Soak for about 30 minutes. This method of using apple cider vinegar for gout is effective for pain in the wrist, elbow, hand, or foot.
• For knee or ankle pain, try soaking a clean cloth in ACV and wrap the aching area. Keep the compress in place for about 15 minutes.
• Make a paste with one teaspoon cayenne pepper powder and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Since cayenne pepper has potent anti-inflammatory properties, it will help lower the swelling caused by gout.
• For more severe pain, cover the ACV compress with a plastic wrap and ace bandage. Leave it on overnight for effective pain relief.
• Pour ACV into a spray bottle and spritz on the affected area every hour until the discomfort and redness ease.
• Pour the ACV into an ice tray and freeze into cubes. Apply these cubes directly on the affected joint for relief.

While conventional medicine has several remedies for the pain and discomfort, using apple cider vinegar for gout is the safest solution that is unlikely to have any undesirable side effects as long as you take it in moderation. Use it topically or drink it and avail of its many advantages.