Hemorrhoids are a common health complaint. MayoClinic.com states that by the age of 50, approximately half of American adults have experienced hemorrhoids and their symptoms, which include anal itching, discomfort and bleeding. Hemorrhoids -- swollen and inflamed veins in your anus and rectum -- may be caused by numerous factors. Herbs are often used as a therapy for hemorrhoids. However, you should discuss risks, dosage and procedures with your doctor before taking or applying herbs for your condition.
Hemorrhoids and Health
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports that there are two principle types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids develop in your lower rectum and may protrude through your anus. External hemorrhoids occur in the skin surrounding your anus. Common causes of hemorrhoids, or swelling of your anal and rectal veins, include reduced fiber content in your diet, pregnancy and long-term diarrhea or constipation. The Clearinghouse states that lifestyle changes are often sufficient in reducing your hemorrhoid swelling.
Appropriate Herbs
In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," master herbalist and naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner lists numerous herbal remedies that may be helpful in treating your hemorrhoids, including buther's broom, stone root, witch hazel, yarrow, horse chestnut, cinnamon, St. John's wort and comfrey. Other helpful herbs for this condition may include calendula, dong quai, ginkgo, nettle, milk thistle and gotu kola. Some of these herbs are used internally, while others are used as a salve.
Common Remedy
Horse chestnut is a common remedy in treating hemorrhoids. According to Tilgner, horse chestnut possesses astringent action, which is the ability to tighten your tissues. This remedy decreases the permeability of your capillaries -- the smallest blood vessels in your body -- and encourages the contraction of veins and increased vascular resistance. The bark, seeds, oil and leaves of the horse chestnut tree contains many important plant chemicals, including esculin, quercetin and citric acid.
Warning
Before using or applying herbal medicines, schedule a visit with your family doctor to discuss the merits and drawbacks of this long-used healing therapy. Although herbal medicine may effectively treat your condition, herbs should always be used judiciously and under the guidance of a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner. Herbalists, naturopathic physicians and other health care professionals can instruct you on how best to use herbs and what herbs may be right for you.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Hemorrhoids
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Hemorrhoids
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
