Half of all American adults suffer with the painful issue of hemorrhoids. By the age of 65, most are regular purchasers of the many hemorrhoids treatments to ease the pain of inflamed veins in the rectum and anus.
Internal hemorrhoids – varicosities in the wall of the rectum –are often caused by a constipated bowel movement, strained lifting, or even pregnancy. External hemorrhoids develop when a blood clot occurs around the rectum, resulting in a painful lump and rectal bleeding.
Thankfully, there are inexpensive natural relief alternatives available. Here is a collection of a few safe and effective home remedies.
Aloe Vera
Simply applying Aloe Vera to hemorrhoids will often ease painful burning and itching. The best way to use Aloe Vera is to peel the skin from a fresh, refrigerated leaf and apply the goo directly to the inflamed area. (It works great for sunburn as well!) Cooling topical gels are also commercially available.
Flaxseed
Ground flaxseeds, which are high in fiber, relieve hemorrhoid pain and bleeding by making bowel movements softer and easier. Any food with fiber will help increase the bulk in the stool, improving the ease of bowel movements, but the soluble fiber of flaxseed is less irritating than the insoluble fiber found in most raw fruits and vegetables.
Coconut Oil
Topically applied coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that will help shrink hemorrhoids within a week. Clean and dry the area first. Then apply the oil using a clean cotton compress or sanitized fingers.
Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut is a traditional remedy for poor circulation. When used to soothe the painful swelling and inflammation of varicose veins and hemorrhoids, it strengthens the walls of weak or collapsing veins. Horse chestnut can be taken in capsule form or steeped as a tea.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has a reputation for anti-inflammatory properties. It can be applied either topically using a clean cotton swab or by adding a half cup to your bathwater for soaking. Relief from hemorrhoid pain should be felt within a few hours.
Citrus Fruits
Oranges and lemons are rich in bioflavonoids, a plant compound with anti-inflammatory benefits. They have been proven to reduce hemorrhoid discomfort, itching, and bleeding, as well as to help strengthen weak blood vessels within a few days.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is often used as an astringent to take down swelling. Apply using a clean cotton swab to the sanitized area to prevent infection and lessen painful inflammation.
Butcher’s Broom
Butcher’s broom, also known as box holly, is a plant that was traditionally used as a cleaner and sanitizer. It is also a traditional European remedy to promote blood circulation for treating hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Butcher’s broom can be taken in capsules as a supplement or steeped as a teaspoon of dried leaves in a tea with honey.
Tea Bags
A warm, moist teabag placed on a hemorrhoid can provide welcome relief thanks to the astringent properties of natural tannins.
