Persistent hemorrhoid conditions resulting from strained defecation, chronic constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, or aging can be alleviated through a change in diet and addition of herbal supplementation to strengthen capillary walls. Many herbal supplements also decrease swelling of the hemorrhoid tissues and minimize bleeding and associated discomfort. Several oral supplements can help alleviate the painful complications of hemorrhoids. Always consult a physician before embarking on an herbal regimen to treat any medical disorder.
Horse Chestnut
Aesculus hippocastanum, more commonly known as horse chestnut, is a deciduous tree native to the Balkan Peninsula. Horse chestnut seed extract is routinely used in Europe for chronic venous conditions, such as hemorrhoids and post-operative edema, and is also used topically to clear skin conditions. According to a May 2010 article appearing in "Journal of Ethnopharmacology," the active ingredient of A. hippocastanum, a chemical called escin, "prohibited the adverse effects of oxidative stress and showed a protective effect indicating an increase in the antioxidative defense system of the body."
Butcher's Broom
Extract of Ruscus aculeatus, also known as butcher's broom, is effective for increasing venous tone because of its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties as reported in an April 2001 article in "Alternative Medicine Review." The author reported that "Human trials have shown patients with chronic venous insufficiency given oral Ruscus extract maintained venous tone and improved venous emptying in comparison to placebo-treated patients."
Gotu Kola
Centella asiatica, or more commonly called gotu kola, has been subject to rigorous clinical investigations conducted on patients with hemorrhoids and varicose veins. A 1988 clinical study appearing in the journal "Pharmacology" found that C. asiatica can possibly enhance the integrity of connective tissue, increase antioxidant activity in wound healing, and improve permeability of capillaries leading to the decrease in swelling associated with hemorrhoids.
Theraputic Effects of Witch Hazel
Hamamelis virginiana, also called witch hazel, is high in tannins and volatile oils, and has recognized therapeutic benefits. Extract of witch hazel is distilled from the bark of a tree from the deciduous forest along the Atlantic coast of North America. Witch hazel has a long curative history and is used principally for its astringent and anti-inflammatory effects as reported in the 1996 edition of "Planta Medica." It can act as a vasodilator, thereby shrinking the size of the veins and alleviating pain associated with hemorrhoids.
References
- "Pharmacology"; Clinical Applications of Centella Asiatica: Herbs, Spices and Medicinal Plants. Recent Advances in Botany and Horticulture; T. Kartnig; 1988
- "Planta Medica"; Antiviral and antiphlogistic activities of Hamamelis virginiana bark; C. Erdelmeier et al.; 1996
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Beneficial effects of Aesculus hippocastanum L. seed extract on the body's own antioxidant defense system on subacute administration; I. Küçükkurt; May 2010
- "Alternative Medicine Review"; Hemorrhoids and varicose veins: a review of treatment options; D. MacKay; April 2001
