Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed and often painful veins in the anus and surrounding tissue. Also referred to as piles, the condition is frequently the result of putting increased pressure on these veins. This can be caused by pregnancy, high blood pressure or straining during a bowel movement. While hemorrhoids can become severe enough to require surgery in some rare cases, most hemorrhoids can be treated effectively with gentle homeopathic remedies.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel extract is an astringent and a common ingredient in various over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments, such as medicated hemorrhoid pads. You can purchase the extract in its pure form at most drug and health food stores. Apply it directly to your hemorrhoids using a clean cotton ball or cotton swab. Do not attempt to cover it with a bandage. Repeat this process up to three times daily to shrink the swollen vein and reduce discomfort.
Aloe Vera
The gel-like sap in aloe vera leaves also has astringent properties and can heal, cool and soothe irritated tissue. The gel can be applied directly to your hemorrhoids with a cotton ball or swab. To harvest gel directly from an aloe vera plant, cut off one of the plant's leaves and slice the leaf down the middle. Use the cotton ball or swab to collect the gel right from the center of the leaf. Pure aloe vera gel, aloe vera extract and other topical, homeopathic lotions containing aloe vera can be purchased at drug and grocery stores.
Sulfur
Sulfur is used in homeopathic treatments for skin conditions like acne and scabies, but is equally effective for treating hemorrhoids because of its mild astringent and antibacterial properties. A sulfur-based treatment plan is often specifically recommended for hemorrhoids that are accompanied by intense burning, diarrhea, flatulence, stomach discomfort and abnormal sensations of fullness. Sulfur can be taken orally in the form of tiny 30 c capsules, which can contribute to internal hemorrhoid symptom relief. However, sulfur is most effective when it is applied directly to the hemorrhoids. Mix a teaspoon of Flowers of Sulfur, available in powder form, with a tablespoon of Vaseline or another soothing ointment. Apply this mixture directly to the hemorrhoids two to three times daily.
High Fiber Diet
While a high fiber diet is not a treatment for hemorrhoids, it is an important part of a speedy recovery and good preventative care. A diet that is high in fiber results in softer stool, which means less straining and abrasion during bowel movements. If you already have hemorrhoids, softer stool can make bowel movements less uncomfortable and can help you avoid the bleeding that often accompanies them. Maintaining a high fiber diet can also help you avoid strain-related hemorrhoids in the first place. A good high fiber diet is one that includes lots of whole grains, wheat bran, vegetables and dried fruit. Strive to eat three to ten servings of whole grains, three to four servings of fruit and three to five servings of vegetables per day. You can also supplement your diet with a natural fiber supplement if your stool still isn't soft enough.
General TLC
Even with other effective homeopathic remedies in place, hemorrhoids will heal slowly and poorly if they're continuously aggravated. Therefore, one of the best things you can do is to simply be gentle throughout the healing process. Sit on an inflatable ring to avoid sitting directly on your hemorrhoids, and wear soft cotton underwear. Find a soft toilet paper with some type of lotion or aloe treatment, avoid straining during bowel movements and take only as much time as necessary in the bathroom, because the veins surrounding the anus are under strain the entire time you maintain the squatting position.
References
- "Recapture Your Health"; Walt Stoll, Jan DeCourtney, C. Norman Shealy; 2006
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2006
- MotherNature.com: Hemorrhoids Treatment & Remedies
- FreeMD: Hemorrhoids Home Care--Dietary Fiber
