Integrating natural products with modern medicine in the treatment of gouty arthritis: a review

Abstract

Gout is an inflammatory form of arthritis caused by hyperuricemia, a condition in which uric acid levels in the body become excessively high. When this occurs, monosodium urate (MSU) crystals can accumulate in the joints, triggering intense pain, swelling, and inflammation. If left untreated, gout can lead to joint damage and other complications. Diet is a key factor in the development and management of gout since some meals may increase uric acid levels while others can help relieve symptoms. To reduce circulating urate levels, commonly used drugs include allopurinol and febuxostat. However, the intake of these medications is associated with undesirable side effects. As a result, the development of a novel active, safe anti-hyperuricaemic and anti-inflammatory medicine could be extremely beneficial in gout treatment. Natural products have become a source of new medications because of their high efficacy and low side effects, which are based on the presence of complex bioactive components. A rising number of researchers document that traditional medications can reduce serum urate levels. This article is intended to trace which herbal remedies could alleviate hyperuricemia, as well as their mechanism of actions.