Hemorrhoids are a painful condition where the veins around the rectum become inflamed and enlarged. There are many ways they can be treated, including several herbal hemorrhoids remedies that you can do right at home.
Astringent Herbal Hemorrhoids Remedies
An astringent is a topical, liquid compound that can shrink or contract your body's tissues. Because hemorrhoids are a swelling, the following astringents may help bring some relief.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a plant, whose leaves, bark and twigs can be used to make medications and astringents. Witch hazel water, a distillation of witch hazel, may be effective as an astringent for hemorrhoids. To use, soak a cotton ball in the liquid and apply it to the affected area as needed.
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Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been shown to have both astringent and anti-bacterial properties. Applied to affected areas, it may temporarily help the pain and itching associated with hemorrhoids. Apply two to three times daily with a cotton ball.
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Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a plant that produces a natural, clear gel that has some astringent properties. Harvard Health recommends applying aloe vera gel to help reduce discomfort caused by hemmorhoids. Apply a liberal amount as needed.
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Herbal Remedies Taken Internally
In addition to those remedies that are applied directly to the affected area, some herbs may be affective at reducing inflammation and discomfort when taken internally. Try some of the following remedies.
Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut seeds have been found to greatly improve circulation and reduce swelling in people with varicose veins. Hemorrhoids are a form of varicose veins confined to the rectal area, and horse chestnut may reduce swelling and improve symptoms. Most practitioners recommend 40 milligrams taken three times daily for two weeks.
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Butcher's Broom
Butcher's broom is an evergreen bush that may improve inflammation in several venous conditions, including hemorrhoids. It has been found to reduce swelling, and it strengthen the blood vessel walls, which may lead to relief from hemorrhoid pain. The recommended amount to take is 36 milligrams twice daily.
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Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract may be effective in improving circulation and treating varicose veins. All parts of the grape may be effective, but the grape seed has the most concentrated amounts of the effective chemicals. Because grape seed is so good at treating venous conditions, it may also be effective at treating hemorrhoids. Recommended dosing is 360 to 720 milligrams daily, taken by mouth.
Grape seed extract may affect blood clotting. Do not take it prior to surgery.
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Treat With Care
Always check with your doctor before taking any herbal medication by mouth to make sure it will not interact with any medication you currently take. If you find blood in your stool with what you suspect is hemorrhoids, check with your doctor before treating to rule out other conditions such as colon cancer. If your doctor approves, you may be able to treat your hemorrhoids with herbal remedies and find some relief, naturally.
