Using Aromatherapy Oils to Help Manage Gout Symptoms

Understanding Gout and How Aromatherapy Oils Can Help

Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that affects millions of people. It occurs when high levels of uric acid in the blood cause crystals to form in the joints, leading to inflammation and intense pain.

What Causes Gout?

Hyperuricemia, or high uric acid levels, occur either when too much uric acid is produced or when the kidneys cannot eliminate enough uric acid from the body. Uric acid comes from the breakdown of purines, which are natural substances found in some foods and drinks.

Factors that can increase uric acid production and lead to gout include:

• Genetics
• Obesity
• Diet high in purines, alcohol or fructose
• Lead exposure
• Certain health conditions and medications

Common Symptoms of Gout

An acute gout attack causes sudden pain, swelling, warmth, redness and tenderness in a joint, often the big toe, ankle or knee. Attacks can last for days or weeks if not treated. As gout worsens over time, more joints can become affected.

How Can Aromatherapy Help with Gout?

Research into essential oils and gout is still emerging, but some oils have properties that may help:

Anti-Inflammatory Oils

Certain oils have anti-inflammatory compounds that may relieve joint inflammation and pain during gout flares. These include:

• Peppermint oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Rosemary oil
• Lavender oil
• Tea tree oil
• Bergamot oil

Pain Relief

Some aromatherapy oils have natural pain-relieving effects when applied to the skin. These include:

• Wintergreen oil - contains methyl salicylate used in some topical pain relievers
• Clove oil
• Peppermint oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Rosemary oil
• Lavender oil

Anti-Uric Acid Effects

A few essential oils have been studied for their potential to lower uric acid levels and help prevent gout attacks. These include:

• Rose oil
• Thyme oil
• Eucalyptus oil

Using Aromatherapy Oils for Gout Relief

Topical Application

Many essential oils can be diluted and massaged directly into affected joints to reduce inflammation and pain. Always mix oils with a carrier oil first like coconut, olive or jojoba oil to avoid skin irritation.

Creating a Massage Blend: Add 5-10 drops of essential oil like peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender or cloves to 1 ounce of carrier oil. Gently massage into sore joints for relief.

Inhalation

Inhaling essential oils stimulates the olfactory nerves and limbic system in the brain associated with emotion, pain control and hormones. To use:

• Add a few drops of oil to hot water and breathe in the vapor
• Use oils in an aromatherapy diffuser
• Place 1-2 drops on a tissue or cotton ball and inhale periodically

Good oils for inhalation include peppermint, eucalyptus, thyme and lavender.

Essential Oil Blends for Gout

Blending two or more complementary essential oils can enhance the benefits for gout relief. Always do a skin patch test before using a new oil.

• Mix 3 drops each rosemary, peppermint and lavender oil with a carrier oil to massage into affected joints
• Combine 4 drops clove, 3 drops bergamot and 2 drops thyme oil for an inhalation blend
• Add 10 drops eucalyptus, 6 drops peppermint and 4 drops tea tree oil into an Epsom salt bath to soak sore joints

Lifestyle Measures

Aromatherapy oils should be combined with dietary changes, weight loss if overweight, managing related health issues, and possibly uric acid lowering medications for the best gout management.

Diet tips include avoiding alcohol, sugary drinks, meat and seafood high in purines that can trigger attacks.

Stay well hydrated with non-alcoholic, non-sweetened beverages like water and herbal tea to support kidney function and promote excretion of uric acid.

Precautions When Using Essential Oils

• Perform a skin patch test by applying diluted oil to inner arm and watch for irritation
• Avoid contact with eyes, ears and other sensitive areas
• Do not take essential oils internally without guidance from a trained herbalist
• Watch for adverse reactions like rash, headache or nausea
• Consult doctor before using oils if pregnant or nursing

With many options to potentially help relieve gout pain and inflammation, aromatherapy oils are an appealing complementary therapy to use alongside conventional treatment under your doctor's care.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.