Approximately 75 percent of people experience hemorrhoids, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed blood vessels around the anus that cause blood in the stool and possibly pain or itching. Sitz baths -- immersion of the hips and buttocks in water -- can help heal hemorrhoids. Certain herbs can be added to enhance the therapeutic effect. Before using home remedies, consult a health care provider to ensure a proper diagnosis and for safety considerations.
Geranium
Geranium maculatum, also called cranesbill, is an herb used for various gastrointestinal complaints, such as infections, ulcers and diarrhea, as well as bleeding of the gums, stomach and urinary tract. Geranium, an astringent herb, shrinks swollen tissue and decreases bleeding and other secretions. It also interacts with mucus membrane cells to form a protective layer over injured tissue and speeds wound healing. Geranium root may be added to the bath in loose form or tied in a cheesecloth.
According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," geranium is useful for overly-relaxed mucus membranes that allow for hemorrhage or other fluid loss, as with hemorrhoids. Geranium is also useful for venous atony -- weak veins -- which contribute to conditions like varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Its active ingredients are gallic acid, tannic acid, gum, pectin, starch and resin.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel, also known by the Latin name Hamamelis virginiana, is an herb used for varicose veins, muscle aches and bleeding. Practitioners of botanical medicine employ witch hazel leaves, bark and twigs for medicinal purposes. Dr. William Mitchell, a naturopathic physician and author of "Plant Medicine in Practice: Using the Teaching of Dr. John Bastyr," reports that witch hazel contains a variety of tannins as well as proanthocyanidins, which contribute to the plant's astringency, diminish inflammation and helps protect and strengthen blood vessels. Dr. Tilgner adds that witch hazel protects the skin and promotes healing. Witch hazel may be added to sitz bath in dried, loose form or as a tincture.
Yarrow
Yarrow, also called Achillea millefolium, is an aster-family plant used for a variety of ailments, such as flu, prostatitis, high blood pressure, uterine cramping, bladder infection and bleeding hemorrhoids. Dr. Tilgner reports that the flowers and leaves contain the therapeutic constituents achilletin and achilleine which diminish bleeding, as well as B-isothujone, coumarin, chamazulene, apigenin and steroidal B-sitosterol. Yarrow is helpful for hemorrhoids because it is both antimicrobial and astringent. Its anti-inflammatory properties contributes to its ability to reduce pain. Dr. Tilgner warns that yarrow should be used with caution, as it may cause a rash in sensitive individuals.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Hemorrhoids
- "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Plant Medicine in Practice: Using the Teachings of John Bastyr"; William A. Mitchell, Jr., N.D.; 2003
