9 Natural Remedies for Hemorrhoids

Experiencing a hemorrhoid can be very uncomfortable and painful. These are swollen, inflamed protruding veins inside the lower part of the rectum and anus. There are internal and external types often caused by straining, poor diet, or even systemic conditions such as a congested liver.

Your rectum and anus are constantly in motion throughout the day and even when you sleep. This means that if you have a sore in this area it is constantly being agitated. These 9 natural remedies for hemorrhoids may be a good way to get relief while letting your body use its own natural healing powers instead of trying to override them with a conventional remedy.

Try nature first with the time tested, centuries old applications of these remedies.

Aloe Vera

It is truly amazing how this prickly plant is filled with healing goodness of clear sticky fluid used for digestive, skin and hemorrhoid relief, to name a few. Aloe vera is capable of a dual pronged approach which includes acting as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic that contains six agents which have an inhibitory effect on bacteria, viruses and fungi.

In a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology it was described under the healing properties of aloe vera as,

“Aloe gel not only increased collagen content of the wound but also changed collagen composition [] and increased the degree of collagen cross linking. Due to this, it accelerated wound contraction and increased the breaking strength of resulting scar tissue.”

Using a cotton ball apply cold aloe vera gel to the affected area three times per day.

Garlic

Here it is again, the root of all roots. Garlic is the go-to remedy for just about everything. When it comes to hemorrhoids it can be directly applied for anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, astringent and detoxifying properties. The active ingredient in garlic is called allicin enabling this herb to improve blood circulation, kill bacteria and protect the blood vessels.

You can apply garlic directly to your hemorrhoids by gently crushing a clove to release the juices or chopping it into a fine paste and placing it on to the affected area. It is probably best to do this before bed. At first it can be very astringent but after a few applications you should get used to it. Be sure to wash out with soap and water when removed.

Stone Root

You may have never heard of stone root but it has been used for hemorrhoids for decades. It is a perennial herb that is capable of reducing pressure of engorged veins and particularly effective when applied to bleeding hemorrhoids. It is described as containing diuretic, antioxidant, antispasmodic, astringent, tonic and sedative properties.

Stone root can be applied directly to the affected area. Stop in a good health food store to inquire about obtaining this root.

Witch Hazel

Extracted from the witch hazel shrub, this herb contains a variety of healing properties which include annin, gallic acid, catechins, proanthocyanins, saponins and choline. Even though you may not know exactly what these properties are, witch hazel has been used for centuries as an astringent to treat external hemorrhoids. It can be found in most pharmacy related stores looking just like rubbing alcohol.

Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and generously apply to your hemorrhoid as many times per day as you can, particularly after a bowel movement. You may feel some stinging at first as the compounds in witch hazel are capable of shrinking the hemorrhoid during this process.

Lemon

Another useful astringent is the juice of lemons. This is a great remedy for hemorrhoids as it is often found in the home. The juice is loaded with a variety of healing agents including antioxidants and capillary strengthening compounds which are perfect for applying to the affected area with a soaked cotton ball.

As with other astringents there will be a tingling or burning sensation upon application that should quickly dissipate.

Black Tea

Here is another easy in-home remedy for hemorrhoids which offers easy application. Black tea contains tannic acid which is capable of swelling reduction and pain relief. Simply dip the tea bag in hot water, let cool and then apply to the hemorrhoid several times per day.

Oils: Coconut, Almond or Olive

Following application of an astringent you can use any of these oils afterward to enable elasticity and continued anti-inflammatory effects.

 

Try one or more of these 9 natural remedies for hemorrhoids to se if you can heal yourself without drugs or over-the-counter attempts.