Hemorrhoids are a devastating medical condition that causes the inflammation of the veins in the rectum/lower anus region of the body. This is mostly seen in adults and is described to be painful and hinders the daily bathroom chores. This is also sometimes referred to as piles.
At least 1 in every 20 Americans suffers from this medical condition. You are more likely to suffer from hemorrhoids if you strain during bowel movements, spend a lot of time in the washroom, suffer from chronic constipation or diarrhea.
Men and women are both equally susceptible to hemorrhoids, however, women have a higher risk during pregnancy as there as increased pressure in the lower rectum area. Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include swollen veins that are itchy/painful, lump formations around the rectal area, discomfort in sitting or during movement.
How To Cure Hemorrhoids Using Naturopathic Remedies
There are two types of hemorrhoids, that are classified on the basis of their location.
- Internal Hemorrhoids – They form in the lining of the anus and the lower rectum
- External Hemorrhoids– They form under the skin around the anus
CURE 1: Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids
In the comfort of your house, you could treat and cure your hemorrhoids alongside using the other remedies listed above. Hemorrhoids may take time to manifest and you may not know that you are suffering from until you feel the first occurrence of the inflammation and pain. In such situations, home remedies can alleviate your pain and in the long run, can also help you prevent and cure hemorrhoids
1. Sitz Baths for Hemorrhoids
Sitz baths are medical devices that can be found in any pharmacy store for a nominal price. It is a plastic device that fits over the toilet and it covers your rectal and anal region allowing you to relax and alleviate your irritation.
Why does it work?
The sitz bath is filled with warm water, that inhibits the growth of microbes and provides relief to the inflamed area. These baths are known to give instant relief.
How to use?
Carry your sitz to the bathroom and properly place it over the toilet. Make sure that you have cleaned and sterilized it well before using it.
Fill the sitz bath with warm water, it is crucial that you bear this in mind that your hands feel temperature differently than the other parts of your body. So it would take a while for you to figure out the optimum temperature for your body.
How much to use?
Generally, this depends on the severity of your condition, however, on a general basis it is recommended that you use it for 15-20 minutes (the longer the better) and 3-4 times in a day. However, do consult with your physician before starting this regimen, as he/she could suggest the right dosage that is appropriate for you.
[Also Read Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids
2. Hydration
Drinking water could help in ways you wouldn’t be able to fathom. Water is primarily absorbed in the large intestine and then sent to the kidneys for filtration. Due to the presence of water in the bolus, it makes it easier for you to pass stools, without any pressure being exerted on the rectum.
Why does it work?
Water acts as a liquefying agent, for a person suffering from hemorrhoids is bound to have severe constipation. Stools in such people are hard and they find a lot of difficulty in passing stools. Water literally water downs the stools and makes the consistency a little smoother thereby reducing the pressure that is exerted on the rectum.
How to use?
It is pretty simple and straightforward, drinking water after waking up is one habit that could help you with this condition. It is also strongly suggested that you have warm water as it is more beneficial in moving the waste in the colon.
How much to use?
The daily recommended intake of water for men is around 15 cups of water (3.7 liters) whereas for women it is 11 cups of water (2.7 liters). It is ideally recommended that schedule your day in such a way that you consume the required amount of water for your body.
3. Exercises for Hemorrhoids
Indulge in simple exercises in the initial stages as they will benefit you and will help you feel more motivated doing them, however, it is strongly recommended that you consult your physician before you start your daily regimen of exercise.
Why does this work?
Exercises help in circulating oxygenated blood to the rectal areas and thereby help in providing some relief.
How to use?
Start with jogging, walking, swimming and stair climbing. They help in the circulation of blood flow to all the parts of the body, resulting in effective hemorrhoid relief, additionally, this exercise involves the contraction and relaxation of the pubococcygeal muscle as well.
How much to use?
It is ideally recommended that you speak to your doctor/physician before starting this regimen, however, it is recommended that you do it for 30 minutes 3-4 days a week.
Bathroom Etiquette to Prevent Hemorrhoids
Limit your time in the bathroom- If you aren’t able to go for a few minutes. Don’t wait or force something to happen. Try to stick to a routine and your body would adjust to the time, and allow you to pass stools smoothly.
Be gentle- If the toilet paper is irritating, try dampening it first with a dash of warm water and if that doesn’t do the trick use moistened wipes, cotton balls, or alcohol-free baby wipes for the best results as this would reduce the irritation caused in the area and will also help you feel relieved.
Don’t hold it in. Don’t absolutely do this, as it can damage your body more than you know. When you have the urge to go to the washroom, don’t wait, use the nearest washroom as quickly as you can. As Stool can back up if you keep it hold and that can cause increased pressure on the rectal area, worsening the condition.
CURE 2: Foods for Hemorrhoids
It should come as no surprise that nutritious food and a balanced diet for hemorrhoids can come a long way in helping you control, Most people suffering from this condition have a lack of fiber in their diet.
Fiber is not digested by the human body. However, it helps in the easy passage of the bolus through the large intestine. Lack of fiber could lead to severe constipation which could be the precursor to hemorrhoids.
1. Beans (Legumes)
Beans are considered a high source of fiber, this vegetable has to be integrated into the diets of people who suffer from hemorrhoids. You could choose from the variety of legumes that are available that figure out what suits you best in accordance with the taste and the fiber content(1).
The table below elucidates the amount of fiber present in each of the ‘legumes’.
| # | Food And Portion Size | Amount Of Fiber |
| 1 | ½ cup navy beans, cooked | 9.6 grams |
| 2 | ½ cup pinto beans, cooked | 7.7 grams |
| 3 | ½ cup kidney beans, cooked | 5.7 grams |
| 4 | ½ cup french beans, cooked | 4.7 grams |
Why does it work?
The legumes consist of high amounts of fiber content, as these pass through the small intestine they are not digested, instead, they are left in the bolus that moves onto the large (food particles that are not/can’t be digested). Here fiber helps in the smooth/regular movement of the bolus thereby ensuring that there is no pressure on the rectum and ensuring easy passage of the stools.
How to use?
You could integrate this vegetable into your daily diet as a complimentary gravy/dish for your meal. A simple gravy of beans could also do the job but if you don’t have enough time. It is also suggested that you could also eat baked beans because it retains the highest amount of fiber in it.
Recipe to make a salad:
Ingredients:
- Add kidney beans, cucumber, carrot, red onions, and parsley to a medium-sized bowl
Procedure:
- Mix all the ingredients well
- In a separate bowl, whisk olive oil, salt, and a pinch of sugar well
- Pour the dressing over the fresh vegetable mixture
- Toss it well
- Eat it immediately or you can also refrigerate it for later use
How much to use?
According to 2015-2020 Dietary guidelines, it is strongly recommended to ingest dietary fiber intake of 14 grams per 1,000 calories consumed. For example, for a 2,000 calorie diet, the fiber recommendation is about 28 grams.
[Also Read: Benefits of White Kidney Beans]
2. Leafy Vegetables
Green leafy vegetables may taste bland and may not appeal to you. However, it is a powerhouse of minerals and vitamins that can help and aid in better and faster digestion, thereby reducing the pressure that is exerted on the rectal area.
Why does it work?
Leaf vegetables like spinach, broccoli, sprouts and many more are all rich in fiber and are also a powerhouse of minerals that promote digestion. Spinach has high amounts of iron that promotes and helps in comfortable digestion, thereby reducing the pressure on the rectum and anus.
How to use?
Adding green vegetables to your balanced diet will help you relieve the painful hemorrhoids. For that, you should add green vegetables to your diet either by making a healthy soup out of them, or you could even add a few leaves of cabbage in your favorite salad.
Additionally, A curry made of broccoli, sprouts, and onion is not only tasty however will aid in easier digestion and help in curing hemorrhoids.
How much to use?
It is ideally suggested that you stick to the daily recommended limit for fiber if you consume 2000 calories, it is recommended that you have 28 grams of fiber. However, it is advised that you consult with your dietician/physician to find the right dosage of fiber that is beneficial for you.
3. Fruits
Who doesn’t love fruits? These succulent little bundles of joy are not only tasty, but they also pack a punch of antioxidants and minerals and fiber that is imperative for you to cure your hemorrhoids. You could easily integrate it into your diet and reap the benefits of eating a healthy breakfast and control your hemorrhoids as well.
Why does it work?
Fruits bear a plethora of health benefits, ranging from controlling your blood sugar levels to aiding your digestion process. The antioxidants and the fiber present in the fruits aid in boosting the digestion as they push the bolus to move faster in the large intestine and help in passing regular stools.
How to use?
Certain fruits are easy to consume as you could directly eat them such fruits include apples, grapes, berries, and prunes. This makes it very easy for you to integrate it into your breakfast and snacks.
Recipe of a fruit salad:
- Take your favorite fruits and slice them into small pieces
- Put all the sliced fruits in a bowl
- Mix them with a spatula
- Add a spoon of honey to enhance the taste
- Add a few nuts like walnuts and almonds for crunch
- Refrigerate it for some time and then eat
Precautions
Avoid citrus fruits like oranges.
How much to use?
There is no limit as to how many fruits you could consume in a day, however, it is recommended that you consume your daily dietary fiber in the form of fruits. Eating them fresh, is considered the best and also eating them in the morning is the best time to consume it.
Foods to Avoid
If you are diagnosed with hemorrhoids the best thing to do is to avoid foods that may irritate them. Researchers at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine advise you to avoid fatty foods, such as fast-food burgers and even cut down on your alcohol consumption to the bare minimum/abstain from it
Although spicy foods have no effect (either positive or negative) on hemorrhoids. However, capsaicin they would disrupt the physiology of your stomach. This can lead to diarrhea, which might make your hemorrhoids even worse.
[ Read: Foods To Avoid With Hemorrhoids ]
You should also avoid dairy foods, while some people believe that cheese curd is good for piles, this is a myth. Dairy foods may cause constipation, which will irritate your hemorrhoids. Fatty meats and processed foods have the same effect and need to avoid them at any cost.
CURE 3: Natural Treatment for Hemorrhoids
There are several treatments that are available in your home and in your kitchen that could be used for instant relief, however these remedies, in the long run, will not be able to provide the desired results.
1. Epsom salt for Hemorrhoids
Magnesium Sulfate powder is a commonly used medicinal powder that houses several medicinal properties. It has been used to treat constipation, migraines and several other diseases. Majorly this salt is used in agriculture.
Why does it work?
Although there hasn’t been much research that was conducted on Epsom salt, however magnesium in the epsom salt is linked to be an analgesic and has anti-inflammatory properties that work on the hemorrhoids and help in reducing the inflammation and pain.
How to use?
Ingredients:
- Two tbsp. of Epsom salts
- Two tbsp. of glycerin
- A gauze pad
Procedure:
- Mix the above ingredients in a bowl
- Apply the mixture onto a gauze
- Place it on the affected area
- Leave it for 15-20 minutes
Repeat every four to six hours until your pain is reduced.
How much to use?
Although there aren’t any set restrictions on the usage of Epsom salt, it is recommended that you mix it with glycerin and then use it. Also, it may not be feasible to do it every six hours, you could do it once before sleeping and after waking up for the best results.
[Also Read: Benefits of Epsom Salt for Hemorrhoids]
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has been historically used to treat a lot of diseases and various skin diseases. The National Center for complementary and integrative health states and lists aloe vera safe to be used topically for any kind of diseases.
Why Does it work?
Although there haven’t been in any kind of scientific research conducted on the medicinal properties of aloe vera, however, there are a lot of people who have used it and have reaped the benefits. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing the swelling.
How to use?
It is ideally recommended that you use the leaves of the plant. Scoop the gel out of 2-3 leaves from the plant and you could apply a little on the inflamed area for instant relief.
People who are allergic to garlic and onion are prone to have an allergy to aloe vera, ideally, it is recommended that you conduct a patch test where you rub a dime-sized amount of aloe vera on your skin if you don’t develop any rashes after 24 hours you are good to go.
How much to use?
This depends on the site of the inflammation, make sure that you use generous amounts to cover the whole area with a layer of the gel, you could also use this as many times as you can in a day for 2-3 weeks to relieve any pain and inflammation.
3. Clove Oil
Clove oil helps to treat chronic anal fissures which are sometimes accompanied by hemorrhoids, as it is a well-known analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. You can easily purchase a clove oil from your pharmacy or you could make it at your home.
Why does it work?
Clove oil is a proven anti-inflammatory agent and an analgesic that directly acts on the fissures and hemorrhoids and helps in reducing the swelling and the pain.
How to use?
Procedure:
- Mix 3 to 5 drops of clove essential oil to one ounce of lotion
Apply it directly on your hand or on gauze and gently apply it on your fissures and hemorrhoids - A note is to make sure to use an unscented, hypoallergenic oil-based lotion
How much to use?
Although there hasn’t been any kind of restriction on the usage, you could perform this procedure for about 3-4 times a day for 2-3 weeks.
CURE 4: Herbs for Hemorrhoids
Herbs boast of anti-inflammatory effects which heal tissue damage and swelling in the rectal area. It works in case of internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. Herbs also help to reduce bleeding if it occurs, in case you are suffering from bleeding hemorrhoids. You could use the tincture, extract or even the herb directly for the best results.
1. Horse Chestnut for Hemorrhoids (Aesculus hippocastanum)
It is a tree that is found in the European regions of the world. It is a large deciduous, synoecious tree, commonly known as horse-chestnut or conker tree.
Why does it work?
Horse chestnut contains aescin, this enzyme is an anti-inflammatory agent that directly acts on the swollen blood vessels and reduces the inflammation. It also helps in maintaining the veins walls and promotes the health of the vessel.
How to use?
You can make a solution with this incredible herb for getting rid of hemorrhoids. Use this solution as a topical compress on the swollen tissue and you’d be able to control/cure your hemorrhoids
Ingredients:
- Dried seeds of the herb
- One cup of water
Procedure
- In a pan add a cup of water
- Boil the water and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes
- Now add a teaspoon of dried seeds in the boiling water
- Allow it to simmer for 15 minutes more
- Now turn off the stove and let it rest.
After it cools down strain the seeds and dip the cloth in this solution and apply it over your rectal area.
Precaution:
Don’t use this, if you’re on anticoagulants as it interferes with the workings of the drug.
How much to use?
It is recommended that you use the above-mentioned values as it falls under the safe dosage limit, however, it is suggested that you consult your doctor before you start using this gel.
2. Witch Hazel for Hemorrhoids (Hamamelis Virginiana)
Witch Hazel is the plant that grows in tropical regions like China, Japan, North America. It is a huge tree spanning over 20- 30 feet and the branches of this tree is used to make this gel.
Why does this work?
Witch hazel gel could be used to cure bloody hemorrhoids, as it has astringent properties it stops the bleeding by causing a blood clot in that area. It is also an anti-inflammatory agent that helps in reducing the swelling in the area.
How to use?
- Procure 80 ml of distilled witch hazel and add to it the bowl and in the bowl add 10 ml of horse chestnut tincture
- Mix the two above ingredients properly
- Apply externally early in the morning
How much to use?
It is recommended that you use the above-mentioned values as it falls under the safe dosage limit, however, it is suggested that you consult your doctor before you start using this gel.
3. Fig (Ficus Carica)
Fig is a common flowering plant that is seen mostly in the Asian regions of the world. It is also a commonly consumed fruit across Asian countries.
How does it work?
Figs consist of a lot of fiber that when consumed helps in the smooth movement in the large intestine, it also contains a lot of enzymes that act as an anti-inflammatory agent and help in reducing the swelling.
How to use?
It is recommended that you use organic figs, about 3-4 and wash them thoroughly in hot water and soak them in water overnight. When you wake up in the morning, consume the water and eat the fruits as well.
How much to use?
Although there isn’t any kind of restrictions on the dosage. Sticking 3-4 figs every day would be sufficient enough to help you cure your hemorrhoids.
CURE 5: Essential Oils for Hemorrhoids
Essential oils are considered to be one amongst the better natural remedies. These work efficaciously on hemorrhoids as they have anti-inflammatory properties and have help in alleviating the pain. In recent times it has gained traction as the alternative remedy that can actually ‘cure’ hemorrhoids.
1. Tea Tree Oil for Hemorrhoids (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the tea tree. The tea tree was named by eighteenth-century sailors who found it on the southeast Australian coast. Tea tree oil has been applied to the skin for infections such as acne, fungal infections. It is also a local antiseptic.
Why does it work?
Tea Tree oil is a known antibacterial, antiseptic and an anti-inflammatory agent that has the efficacy to heal wounds, minor cuts, allergies. It is also known to prevent microbial infections in the site of infection and being an innate antioxidant is able to accelerate the healing of damaged blood vessels.
How to use?
Before you use tea tree oil on your skin, it is advised that you conduct a path test to make sure that you’re not sensitive to it.
Tea tree oil is a very strong liquid hence it is advised that you use it alongside with a carrier oil. In this case, it could be jojoba oil, castor oil or coconut oil.
Procedure
- Take a clean cloth and ideally, it should be new to avoid infecting the affected area.
- Mix 2ml of the tea- tree oil with any carrier oil in a bowl and mix it well.
- Pour two to three drops on the cloth and very gently apply it on the affected area.
Additionally, it is advised that you apply it around the affected area to prevent any further spread.
How much to use?
As tea tree oil is a strong liquid, it is advised that post your path test if you have no irritation then you could use it generously. Around 3-4 ml per application and you could apply it 2 times a day, ideally after walking up and before sleeping.
[Also Read: 9 Popular Essential Oils For Hemorrhoids]
2. Primrose Oil for Hemorrhoids (Oenothera Biennis)
Evening Primrose is a typical flowering plant found in Europe and some parts of Asia and Africa. This plant has excellent medicinal properties and can be used to cure skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It is also used for rheumatoid arthritis, weak bones (osteoporosis), Raynaud’s syndrome, multiple sclerosis (MS).
Why does it work?
Primrose oil has ‘fatty acids’ in it, which is known to have anti-inflammatory and pain relieving symptoms that can significantly reduce the swelling and relieve the pain caused by hemorrhoids. It is also known to provide relief from the itchy feeling, and constant discomfort felt in/around the rectum region.
How to use?
Procedure
Primrose oil is safe enough that you could directly apply it on the affected area and the nearby area.
- You can take 4-5 drops and pour it into a bowl and then gently apply it to the affected regions or on the surrounding skin to help soothe the inflamed area.
How much to use?
Primrose oil is relatively safer to be used directly on the skin. You could use around 4-5 ml of this oil on a day to day basis. You could also apply twice a day, once before sleeping and once more after waking up.
3. Cypress oil for Hemorrhoids (Cupressus sempervirens)
Cypress is a plant that is found in the European regions and the Mediterranean regions. Every part of the tree can be used for treating a lot of diseases including the branch, cone, and oil. Cypress oil has a therapeutic effect on hemorrhoids and can easily soothe pain and inflammation. It also stops any bleeding that may occur during bowel movements.
Why does it work?
Cypress oil consists of pinene, carene, limonene, and α-terpinolene that are anti-inflammatory agents and that can help reduce the inflammation that is present in the rectal region. It is a potent astringent and can heal injured blood vessels by inducing clot formation.
It is very gentle on your skin and stops the bleeding from external hemorrhoids almost immediately. Additionally, It has a soothing smell and exhibits antimicrobial activity.
How to use?
Cypress oil must be diluted with any carrier oil like coconut oil, castor oil. Once mixed with the carrier oil, you could directly apply it to the affected regions and surrounding areas. It is to be noted that you need to apply gentle pressure when applying.
Additionally, You can also try using soaps, creams, and lotions rich in cypress oil to lessen the severity of hemorrhoids.
How much to use?
Cypress oil is a safe oil that doesn’t cause any kind of harsh reaction with the body. It could be used generously twice a day once before sleeping and after waking up. Also, it is strongly suggested that before you use the suppository products like soaps and creams to seek your physician’s advice and then use it accordingly.
Precautions To Be Taken While Using these Oils
1. Potency Of The Essential Oil
They offer relaxation and help you alleviate your pain, however, essential oils may harm your body if you use them over the recommended dosage. Hence it is strongly advised that you seek professional advice from your doctor/physician about the right dosage that would be suitable for you.
It is to be noted that you should always dilute the essential oils in carrier oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil. Essential oils that can be safely utilized without the carrier oil have been listed above.
2. Internal Hemorrhoids
It is imperative that you learn this fact that essential oils are only an effective remedy for external hemorrhoids.
It is strongly advised that you don’t use essential oils for treating internal hemorrhoids, consult with your physician for a proper treatment plan for the condition.
3. Oral Consumption
Essential oils are not indigestible and they are not monitored by the FDA as well. Hence it is very strongly advised that you orally ingest any of these oils. They are to be only used topically, on the site of the infection.
Hemorrhoids are easy to treat and most of the times clear on their own. Seldom, does it cause complications in the body? If you leave this severe condition unchecked it could cause anemia, a shortage of red blood cells in the body. Internal hemorrhoids can also have their blood supply cut off and causing them to become strangulated hemorrhoids. Using these natural remedies not only could you control your hemorrhoids, with regular use you could cure them as well.
