Hemorrhoids or piles are characterized by swollen veins located around the anal region or lower rectum. These veins are inflamed because of too much pressure or stress caused by several conditions such as stiff bowel movement, poor diet, prolonged standing and other unhealthy practices. Other factors that contribute to the development of piles are genetics, aging, obesity, overuse of laxatives, sexual practices, and pregnancy.
Internal hemorrhoid occurs inside the rectum while the external type lies within the anus. It is often uncomfortable and painful but it is not usually harmful and could be treated easily. Some people find it embarrassing to be examined by a doctor especially if it is only a mild condition. You can try these effective remedies at home to get relief from the pain, itch and inflammation triggered by hemorrhoid.
1. Ice- Applying an ice pack or cold compress on the anal area would relieve the pain of protruding lumps in the anal canal.
2. Sitz bath- You may purchase a plastic sitz bath at local pharmacies or medical supply stores. It is a powerful treatment for anal fissures and hemorrhoid. Sitting on a sitz bath for 15-20 minutes promotes blood flow in the rectal area and helps relax the anal sphincter. Make sure that the water is not too warm because it might burn your skin and cause greater injury.
Take a sitz bath several times a day especially after you have had a painful bowel movement. It is important to always keep the anal area clean but soap may aggravate the problem. Avoid using alcohol-based soaps or perfumed wipes as they may worsen itching.
3. Ginger- Ginger root is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that cause hemorrhoids to shrink. Antioxidants remove toxins from your blood and improve its circulation, thus preventing the blood vessels from forming into piles.
4. Garlic- Raw garlic has been used since ancient days to treat a number of health conditions. It contains allicin, an active agent which has antibacterial and antifungal properties that reduce anal itching. Garlic’s astringent properties also help in the fast recovery of damaged linings of the blood vessels and relieve inflammation.
5. Apple cider vinegar- This is the best home treatment for both internal and external piles. It reduces swelling, itching and irritation of external piles when applied directly on the inflamed area. If you have internal hemorrhoid, then drink one teaspoon of vinegar with a glass of water twice a day. You would likely to feel relieved and notice the piles shrinking within 24 hours.
6. Rutin- This is an antioxidant found primarily in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and limes. It strengthens blood vessels preventing them from developing into lumps and speeds up the recovery of swollen veins.
7. Vaseline- This is a non-prescription cream that soothes irritated external hemorrhoid. It prevents further irritation and lessens itching by forming a barrier over the inflamed area.
8. Zinc oxide paste- Zinc oxide reduces the burning sensation and itching of external hemorrhoid. It covers the swollen area to protect the skin from irritation and injury.
9. Green clay- This natural treatment was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to cure internal inflammation, bruises and infections. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that quickly heal swollen blood vessels. Green clay also functions as a detoxifying agent that cleanses the intestinal tract, promoting a good bowel movement.
10. Cumin seeds- Cumin seeds contain cuminaldehyde, carvone, cuminol and other compounds that improve digestion. It allows the smooth passing of bowel so as not to cause pressure to the veins around the anal area. Powdered cumin seeds can be mixed with water to create a paste for external hemorrhoid and can be made into a cumin tea or juice to treat internal piles.
11. Lard and calomel- Mix heated lard with a teaspoon of calomel then apply it to the inflamed skin to lessen pain and reduce itching.
12. Olive oil- This is one of the best natural treatment for external hemorrhoid. It relieves the pain of damaged veins and protects the inflamed skin from further injury.
13. Tea- Herbal teas such as raspberry, lemon and green tea are inexpensive treatments for internal hemorrhoids. They help in the proper function of the digestive system to avoid constipation which causes stress to the veins in the anal region.
14. Essential oils- Essential oils are beneficial in reducing the stinging pain and promoting the quick healing of damaged veins. Some of the widely used oils that are proven to treat piles are avocado, rue, primrose oil, sesame seed, peppermint oil and tea tree oil. Adding few drops of these oils to your bath and directly applying them on the affected area will surely ease the discomfort and gradually reduce the size of piles.
15. Witch hazel- This is known as one of the best herbs for hemorrhoid. Dab the affected area with a cotton ball soaked in pure witch hazel to lessen the swelling and pain.
16. Honey- Honey is recommended for treating hemorrhoid, resulting from constipation. It is an effective stool softener and makes bowel movement easier.
While these home remedies can lessen the unpleasant symptoms of hemorrhoid, it is still best to switch to a healthy diet and lifestyle to prevent its recurrence. High-fiber foods are recommended to promote healthy blood vessels, good digestion and total well-being. The foods that are rich in dietary fiber include fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, melons, celery, banana, spinach and apricots. Whole grains like wheat, barley, oats and brown rice also contain high levels of fiber.
A diet that is high in meat or other animal products and refined carbohydrates can worsen your rectal condition. Avoid eating processed foods, spicy dishes, coffee and other caffeinated drinks. These foods can irritate piles and make bowel movements more difficult.
Regular exercise and adequate hydration also play a major role in maintaining normal bowel function and overall health. A 15-20 minute exercise daily will reduce the risk of getting hemorrhoid. Remember that prevention is still the most powerful treatment.
Share this:
