Herbal Treatments for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids

2009-07-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

Hemorrhoids are a very distressing condition that involve the swelling of the veins of the anus and rectum. They are very similar to varicose veins whereby the veins lose their elasticity and swell and this results in the uncomfortable symptoms of hemorrhoids that may include itching, burning pain and bleeding.

Herbal hemorrhoid remedies are a kind of treatment for the said ailment that is gaining a huge amount of recognition among patients and health experts alike.

The primary benefit of herbal hemorrhoid remedies is that they are completely safe to use. The last significant benefit of herbal hemorrhoid products is that they entail no side effects. This is in contrast to certain medications that consist of synthetic ingredients, which are nonetheless effective but may cause the user to experience various undesirable respiratory or digestive problems.

In many cases hemorrhoids will respond quickly to the use of herbal medicines, both taken internally and applied externally, however it is also necessary to address the cause of the condition. Some common factors that can contribute to hemorrhoids include sitting or standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, dehydration, obesity and lack of exercise, but without a doubt the largest factor is constipation and straining during defecation. A poor intake of dietary fiber is often a major culprit that increases the risk of development of hemorrhoids.

The fact that no animal other than human beings has ever be known to exhibit hemorrhoids can be seen as a major indication that something is wrong with our diets and improving the diet can help this condition dramatically, however herbal remedies can often provide immediate relief as well as being effective for the long term treatment of this very distressing condition.

Aloe - Aloe Vera / barbadensis

2009-07-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

Internally, taken as a commercial preparation, aloe vera gel relieves constipation, reduces liver congestion and heals hemorrhoids.
Externally, the gel or fresh aloe is used directly on the hemorrhoid itself.

Aloe Vera is a virtual necessity for minor emergencies. It is a healing plant used to treat sunburns, minor burns, scrapes, ulcers, arthritis and constipation. This herb has healing, soothing and cleansing properties making it an ideal addition to any medicine cabinet. Moreover, Aloe soothes the intestinal system, too. Aloe Vera has attracted the interest of modern physicians for its ability to heal radiation burns.

Aloe Vera gel is an astringent that helps to heal open wounds. It is useful in hemorrhoids by applying the gel directly onto your anus. The best type of gel for this is directly from the aloe plant. If you don't have one, then 100% organic whole leaf aloe gel is second best. You can get this organic aloe at a health food or nutrition store.

If you have a fresh plant, wash a leaf thoroughly with distilled water. Peel it on one side, bend it with the peeled side outward, and slip it into your anus. This will provide you with pain relief and reduce your hemorrhoid bleeding. Just trim down the leaf so it slides into your anus easily.

Aloe Vera juice, that you drink, is also good for hemorrhoids. It helps to soften your stools and to activate peristaltic action. If you like aloe juice, then drink around 1/2 a cup of Aloe Vera juice three time a day.

Other common names: Aloe, Barbados Aloe, Curacao Aloe.

Butcher's Broom - Ruscus aculeatus

2009-07-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

Internal use for hemorrhoids and varicose veins, reduces inflamation
Helps poor circulation.
External use to reduce hemorrhoidal swelling.

Derived from the root of the plant.

Butcher's Broom is a modern woman's wonder-herb. The roots and young stems of this plant are used medicinally to promote healthy circulation - especially to the hands and feet. When feeling bloated, use Butcher's Broom to encourage comfortable water balance and excess fluid and swelling.

Taken orally or applied topically, this herb has been used for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and lymph edema. All uses include circulatory disorders, constipation, hemorrhoids, inflammation, leg cramps, lymphedema, promote urination, and varicose veins.

Other common names: Kneeholy, Knee Holly, Kneeholm, Jew's Myrtle, Sweet Broom, Pettigree, Box Holly.

Calendula - Calendula officinalis.

2009-07-02T21:23:00.000-07:00

Relieves pain & inflammation.
Use a cream topically or make a strong infusion and use in a sitz bath.

Calendula is an extremely effective herb for the treatment of skin problems and can be used wherever there is inflammation of the skin, whether due to infection or physical damage; for example, ulcerations, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, mastitis, cysts, impetigo or other inflamed lesions. It is also specifically indicated in enlarged or inflamed lymphatic nodes.

An infusion of the flowers can be used for such gastrointestinal problems as ulcers, stomach cramps, colitis and diarrhea. Calendula is also useful when taken internally for fever, boils, abscesses and to prevent recurrent vomiting. The fresh juice of the herb or flowers can substitute for the infusion. For external use, a good salve for wounds can be made from the dried flowers or leaves, or from the juice pressed out of the fresh flowers.

Calendula tinctures, ointments, and washes are commonly used to speed the healing of burns, bruises, and cuts, as well as the minor infections they cause. Calendula cream is also used to treat hemorrhoids.

Other common names: Marigold, Holigold, Garden Marigold, Pot Marigold, Mary Bud, Mary Gowles, Garden Calendula, Golds.

Comfrey - Symphytum officinale

2009-07-02T21:21:00.000-07:00

Anti-inflamatory, soothes irritation and promotes healing of tissues.
Use locally as ointment, powdered root, or tea grom the leaf or powder.
Astringent contracts swollen, dilated tissue and decreases recurrence.

Comfrey Symphytum officinale is an herb that will provide relief and help cure the hemorrhoids in a convenient and cost effective way. Comfrey Symphytum officinale can make the hemorrhoids symptoms disappear. This herb comes in a root powder form and it contains plenty of allantoin. Allantoin is a healing, moisturizing, soothing and anti-irritating, keratolytic and non-toxic agent useful in dermatological, cosmetic and veterinary preparation. Allantoin is an essential nutrient for the cells as a healing agent which stimulates healthy tissue formation. Comfrey contains this ingredient and it is anti-inflammatory and stimulates re growth of new skin cells.

You can take Comfrey Symphytum officinale as a fresh plant leaves, dried leaves, bark or seeds and it should work effectively.

Other common names: Ass ear, Blackwort, Boneset, Bruisewort, Comfrey symphytum, Consound, Gum plant, Healing herb, Invisible vet, Knit bone, Knitback, Knitbone, Nipbone, Salsify, Slippery root, Wallwort.

Dandelion - Taraxacum officinale

2009-07-02T21:20:00.000-07:00

- Tincture or capsules are taken internally to soften hard stools.
- Dandelion Extract is a general stimulant to the system, but especially to the urinary organs, and is chiefly used in kidney and liver disorders.
- In folk medicine,Dandelion Extract is also used as a remedy for hemorrhoids, gout, rheumatism, eczema, other skin conditions, and diabetes.

The Dandelion has been used for medicinal purposes since the 10th century. Dandelion Extract shows proven value as a diuretic, flushing excess water from the body. Dandelion Extract also promotes the flow of bile and stimulates the appetite. Dandelion juice once enjoyed considerable popularity as a diuretic, laxative, and remedy for rheumatism.

Helps in the relief of infections, colds, flu, congestion caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes, hemorrhoids, fungal infections, canker sores, constipation, gastric ulcerations, vaginal infections, diarrhea, excessive menstrual bleeding, and gingivitis.

Other common names: Bitterwort, Pissabed, Lion’s Tooth, Priest’s Crown, Telltime, Puffball, Cankerwort, Blow Ball, Swine Snout, White Endive, Wild Endive, Irish Daisy, Doonheadclock, Yellow Gowan, Clock Flower, Fortuneteller.

Horse Chestnut - Aesculus hippocastanum

2009-07-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

Strengthens blood vessels, tones the veins; anti-inflamatory effects.
Shrinks hemorrhoids, reduces swelling, pain, itching, blood clots.
Can be taken internally or can be used as a local ointment or gel.

A woman's favorite, Horse Chestnut is great for anyone with circulatory concerns. It's a popular herbal aid for promoting circulation, especially to the legs. Herbalists recommend Horse Chestnut for those struggling with unsightly varicose leg veins, and Horse Chestnut can improve the tone of veins and increase the flow of blood through them. Scientific studies have also shown that Horse Chestnut can reduce edema.

Horse Chestnut has been used for swelling and pain due to varicose veins and chronic circulation problems. It has also been used for reducing the swelling of hemorrhoids or veins (phlebitis).

Other common names: Buckeye, Common Horse Chestnut, Bark Bongay, Konker Tree, Spanish Chestnut.

Mullein - Verbascum thapsus

2009-07-02T21:14:00.000-07:00

A soothing emollient for hemorrhoids that are dry, sore and irritated.
Mullein flower oil or infusion is applied locally to speed tissue healing.

Mullein Leaf has served many purposes over the centuries, from making candlewicks to casting out evil spirits, but as an herbal medicine, it was primarily used to treat diarrhea, respiratory diseases and hemorrhoids. Mullein leaves and flowers are classified in traditional herbal literature as expectorants and demulcents.

Traditionally, a poultice made from Mullein leaves has been applied to the skin to treat ulcers and hemorrhoids.

Other common names: Aaron's Rod, Velvet Dock, Torches, Jacob's Staff, Bunny's Ears, Beggar's Blanket, Velvet Plant, Pig Taper, Verbascum Flowers, Bullock's Lungwort, Woolen Blanket Herb, Cow's Lungwort, Hag's Taper, Candlewick, Lungwort, Grandmother's Flannel.

Peony - Paeonia officinalis

2009-07-02T21:10:00.000-07:00

Helps with burning, itching or irritated hemorrhoids or pain after stool.
For fissures, ulcerations and fistula, with oozing of offensive moisture.

Peony Root is a famous and highly prized blood tonic used to relax muscles and cleanse the blood. It is one of the most highly prized women's herbs used traditionally to help regulate the female hormonal cycle. Peony is also used as a pain reducing agent and as an emotional stabilizer, particularly valuable with women who experience hormonal imbalances. It is said to relieve cramps and spasms anywhere in the body.

Provides relief from painful, persistent hemorrhoids and anal fissures. This remedy is given mostly for problems in the rectum and anus such as fissures and hemorrhoids. Paeony is used for intense, burning pain in the anus during and after passing stools, followed by a chilly sensation.

Other common names: European Peony, Piney, Moutan, Tree Peony, Moutan Peony, Mudan, Common Peony.

Pilewort - Ranunculus ficaria

2009-07-02T21:08:00.000-07:00

It can help stop the bleeding.
Is a great healing tonic for blood vessels.
You can take Pilewort internally or externally.

Pilewort is a herb which can help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms .

Piles are another name for hemorrhoids and this herb was named for its effectiveness for this condition. It tonifies the blood vessels and stops bleeding. Pilewort may be taken internally as a tea or alcohol-based tincture and it can also be applied externally as an ointment.

Applied twice daily, Pilewort ointment can reduce the pain of external hemorrhoids: Simmer 2 tbsp fresh or dried Pilewort in 7 oz petroleum jelly for 10 minutes. Allow to cool before using; store leftover ointment in a closed container.

Other common names: Lesser Celandine, Small Celandine, Figwort, Smallwart.

Plantain - Plantago major

2009-07-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

An astringent that shrinks swollen veins, decreases related bleeding.
Apply the ointment directly for relief of irritation and swelling.

One of the most prolific herbal healers, Plantain has been extensively used for its astringent properties for the relief of upper respiratory difficulties. It was also a favorite of traditional herbalists when used topically for treating insect bites and stings. Plantain also clears heat and removes excess fluid from the body, while at the same time soothing inflammation and irritated tissues.

As an infusion in milk, plantain can be used on hemorrhoids. Plantain can be dried and used as a tea for winter, or used fresh during the summer.

Other common names: Greater Plantain, Common Plantain, Ripple Grass, Cuckoo's Head, Rat-tail Plantain, Englishman's Foot, White Man's Foot, Ribwort, Waybread, Waybroad, Snake Weed, Broad-leaved Plantain, Dooryard Plantain.

Psyllium Seed - Plantago psyllium

2009-07-02T21:03:00.000-07:00

Taken orally, relieves itching, bleeding and pain by correcting bowels.
Benefits hemorrhoids by decreasing irritation from frequent loose stools or from overstraining due to constipation or hardened stool.
Soothing to the digestive tract, draws toxins, metals from the body.

In addition to its traditional and current use for constipation, Psyllium was also used topically to treat skin irritations, including poison ivy reactions and insect bites and stings. It has also been used in traditional herbal systems of China and India to treat diarrhea, hemorrhoids, bladder problems, and high blood pressure.

In recent years Psyllium has become one of the world's most-used herbs. It is almost universally recognized as a premier source of dietary fiber, a useful substance to regulate the bowels, and a safe and effective constipation and diarrhea remedy. It can aid in the treatment of obesity and overeating by instilling a sense of fullness. Studies suggest that Psyllium may lower blood cholesterol levels and blood pressure, thus helping to prevent heart disease. It may suppress blood sugar fluctuation and play a role in the treatment of hypoglycemia and diabetes. Psyllium may also be useful in preventing or treating:
hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticular disease.

Other common names: Fleaseed, Fleawort, Ispaghula, Branching Plantain, Spogel, Plantago, Psyllium Husk.

Slippery Elm - Ulmus fulva

2009-07-02T21:01:00.000-07:00

Demulcent with a gel-like mucilage, used orally and locally.
Externally, used to coat and soothe hemorrhoids, tighten up tissues.
Internally, used in both constipation and diarrhea, or in irritable bowel and other colon disorders (e.g. diverticulitis, bowel inflamation).

Often used as a digestive tonic, Slippery Elm helps to soothe the mucous membranes of the throat and the entire digestive tract. It's a popular herbal ingredient in natural throat and cough lozenges. In capsules, this herb makes a wonderful stomach-soother and digestive aid.

The inner bark can be ground into a nutrient-rich gruel. One can survive on this gruel alone for a relatively short period. It also contains a mucilage that is an excellent remedy for sore throats. It may be dried and ground to a powder, then made into a tea. Either the tea or the gruel may be used to soothe the digestive tract as well, such as with irritable bowel syndrome or gastritis. There are no known contraindications for Slippery Elm, since it consists mainly of mucilage and various nutrients; it is not technically a drug.

Other common names: Indian Elm, Red Elm, Winged Elm, Rock Elm, Moose Elm, Sweet Elm, American Elm.

Stone Root - Collinsonia canadensis

2009-07-02T20:58:00.000-07:00

Relieves pain, itching, burning of chronic protruding or internal piles.
Reduces bleeding; helps with chronic atonic constipation or diarrhea.
Aids congested or toxic liver, anal prolapse. Use before rectal surgery.

Stone Root is a North American herb that has been used in traditional medicine in the treatment of varicose veins, laryngitis, diverticulosis, dysentery, colitis and various digestive disorders, but its real acclaim is in its use against the formation of kidney stones. It has also been used as a tonic for the cardiovascular system.

Traditional herbalists have used Stone Root for hemorrhoids, catarrhal gastritis, pain in the rectum, heart tonic, rheumatic inflammation, laryngitis, pharyngitis, clergyman's sore throat, dysentery, ulcers, fistula, inflammation of the middle ear, acute cystitis, and vaginismus.

Other common names: Collinsonia, Richweed, Hardhack, Horseweed, Knob Root, Knot Root, Horse Balm, Rich Leaf, Knobweed, Oxbalm.

Witch Hazel - Hamamelis virginiana

2009-07-02T20:28:00.000-07:00

A soothing astringent that relieves pain and swelling, contracts and shrinks veins, heals bleeding hemorrhoids and helps with anal prolapse.
Apply locally as an ointment, lotion or in a compress; used in most commercial hemorrhoids preparations or available full strength.

Witch Hazel is the most applicable and easy-to-use astringent for common usage. Very valuable for stopping either internal or external bleeding, this herb is especially useful in the easing of hemorrhoids. Witch Hazel is also used for the treatment of bruises and inflamed swellings, as well as varicose veins.

NOTE: Never drink Witch Hazel purchased from the pharmacy; it contains an alcohol that is not intended for internal use.

Other common names: Snapping Hazelnut, Winterbloom, Hamamelis, Hazel Nut, Snapping Hazel, Spotted Alder, Striped Alder, Tobacco Wood.