Natural Remedies for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and the anus. They are also called as piles. Hemorrhoids are caused due to increase in venous pressure, when there is a strain during bowel movement, resulting in bleeding and rupturing of the vein. The inflamed rectal area bleeds and the patient experiences pain, irritation, burning sensation and itching due to difficulty in cleaning the area. Hemorrhoids may be external and visible or internal. Its occurrence is more common in people of 45 to 65 age groups.

The external hemorrhoid, a thrombosed lump, is bluish-purple in color. Internal hemorrhoid is usually painless, except when it is a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid. In this type, the hemorrhoid collapses and bulges outside the anus, which results in mucus discharge and heavy bleeding.

Consumption of fibrous food prevents the development of hemorrhoids. Generally, hemorrhoids are developed because of two reasons. The first one is constipation, as it creates pressure on the rectal veins. The other common cause is congested liver. Factors, like obesity, lack of exercise, some food allergies and lifting heavy objects can also result in the occurrence of hemorrhoids. During pregnancy, women can develop hemorrhoid because of the growing venous pressure of the uterus. Constipation in pregnancy causes straining during bowel movement. This puts a lot of pressure on the veins around the anus area, which make the hemorrhoid more painful. Here are some natural remedies, which can be used to treat hemorrhoids:

• One should have a high-fiber diet. Whole grains, green vegetables, flax-seeds, etc. are rich in fibers and they help to lessen the irritation caused by the hemorrhoids.
• Bioflavonoids stabilize and strengthen walls of the blood vessels and they also decrease the inflammation. The major flavonoids are found in citrus fruits, like lemon and orange.
• Witch hazel, which acts as an astringent, can be applied with an aseptic cotton pad, three times a day. It will help in decreasing the bleeding, swelling and pain caused by the hemorrhoids.
• Butcher's broom is an effective ointment for treating hemorrhoids. Pregnant women and people with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and high blood pressure should avoid taking this medication.
• Horse chestnut is available in tea or capsule form. It acts as an external compress. People allergic to horse chestnut or people with bleeding disorders should not use this medication.
• Triphala, which is an Ayurvedic herb, is used as a bowel tonic, compress or ointment. It is a mild, stimulant drug, which relieves constipation.
• Aloe Vera gel is a herbal pain reliever, which can be directly applied to the rectal area. It soothes the burning sensation.
• A balm made up of bayberry, myrrh, goldenseal root, and white oak helps to relieve painful hemorrhoids.
• Olive oil and chamomile tea also help to lessen the hemorrhoids.
• Almond oil is also useful for relieving pain. Applying baking soda in the area helps to minimize the itching.
• One teaspoon of fenugreek seeds with a glass of boiling water, sugar or honey, is also a good medicine. It should be taken three times a day.
• The most important medicine is water. It is important to drink sufficient amount of water, in order to avoid constipation.

So, these were some of the natural remedies for treating hemorrhoids. However, they should only be taken after consultation with your doctor.