The use of the Chinese Pond Turtle (Mauremys reevesii, commonly called "Chinemys reevesii") for treating gout is rooted primarily in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practices. In TCM, turtle shells (often referred to as "Gui Ban") have been used for centuries to "nourish yin," "anchor yang," and treat ailments such as weakness, night sweats, and, in some texts, joint pain or inflammation. There are historical references in classical Chinese medical texts to the use of turtle shell preparations for musculoskeletal complaints that could overlap with symptoms of gout, but these references are not specific to the modern biomedical concept of gout (i.e., uric acid crystal-induced arthritis).

Scientific studies directly investigating the efficacy of Chinese Pond Turtle or its derivatives for gout are lacking. No clinical trials or pharmacological studies have validated its use for lowering uric acid or treating acute gout. The traditional rationale is based on the general anti-inflammatory properties ascribed to animal shell components, but these claims remain unsubstantiated by modern research. Furthermore, the use of turtles in medicine raises ethical and conservation concerns.

In summary, the use of Chinese Pond Turtle for gout is supported by historical tradition rather than scientific evidence, and the strength of the evidence is weak.