Uric acid is a substance produced by the body during the breakdown of purines, substances that are naturally present in the body and in food, and is excreted through urine.
Increased uric acid levels in the blood (hyperuricemia) is due to many different factors, such as weight gain, diet (increased intake of purines), but also many diseases (eg kidney disease) .
What causes increased uric acid?
High uric acid level can get worse due to the following causes:
- Diuretics;
- Alcohol abuse;
- genetic predisposition;
- hypothyroidism;
- Immunosuppressive drugs;
- Obesity;
- Psoriasis;
- Coronary artery disease;
- Hypertension;
- High consumption of foods rich in purines (liver, sardines, sauce, peas, mushrooms, anchovies)
- Renal insufficiency;
- Tumor lysis syndrome (sudden release of cells into the blood due to various types of cancer or chemotherapy);
- Chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Infusions to lower uric acid
The health benefits of tea are as diverse as lowering uric acid levels. Xanthine oxidase is the enzyme most directly mediated in uric acid production.
Medical treatment often includes medications to reduce uric acid production and anti-inflammatory medications. However, milder cases can be controlled with diet and some supplements. Here are 5 herbal teas that lower uric acid.
1. Ponytail
Among the most effective infusions to eliminate uric acid we also find horsetail, as this product has a high content of potassium salts. Precisely this characteristic means that, among the many healing properties of horsetail, there are also depurative and diuretic properties.
In this way, horsetail-based tea to lower uric acid helps in cases of excess uric acid and is also a great ally for those who suffer from high cholesterol levels.
2. Dandelion
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) conceives dandelion as a medicine for traditional use (MTP) for the treatment of mild digestive disorders, such as a feeling of abdominal fullness, flatulence and slow digestion, as well as to increase the amount of urine, cleanse the urinary tract and kidneys.
3. Nettle
Nettle has many beneficial properties for the optimal functioning of the body. The way to prepare this infusion is to add a teaspoon of green nettle to a cup of boiling water. It should then be removed from the heat, covered, and allowed to stand for 15 minutes before consuming.
It can be taken every day, preferably on an empty stomach for two weeks.
4. Holy basil
Both animal and human studies have found holy basil to have anti-inflammatory properties that can lower blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Compounds in the leaves and seeds of the holy basil plant may also lower uric acid levels, relieving pain that results from inflammatory conditions such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Ginger infusion
Scientific research suggests that consuming ginger tea decreases pain associated with uric acid buildup in the joints. Although more evidence is needed to support these effects, this remedy is a good option to complement the treatment of conditions such as gout.