Natural Remedies for Hemorrhoids

Increase Your Circulation

Hemorrhoids occur because there is an inflammation of tissue and a "pinching-off" of veins near the opening of the rectum. The number one way to reduce pain and inflammation is to increase the circulation to the area where the hemorrhoids are. In other words, stop sitting so much in front of your computer and let your tail end get some blood!

Get Some Fiber

Fiber shows a consistent beneficial effect in relieving hemorrhoid symptoms and bleeding. It can soften stool and increase its bulk, which helps to reduce straining. Seven randomized trials with a total of 378 participants have found fiber improved symptoms including itching, discomfort, and pain.

There are plenty of ways to get more fiber. Start by eating foods high in fiber, such as whole grains and vegetables. Psyllium, a powdered fiber supplement, is another option, one that's inexpensive and readily available. A typical amount of psyllium is one teaspoon of the husks in water followed by another glass of water.

Another option is ground flaxseeds. Whatever the source of fiber, it's important to drink sufficient water or constipation may worsen.

Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are a type of plant compound that are thought to work by stabilizing and strengthening blood vessel walls and by decreasing inflammation. They have been found to reduce anal discomfort, pain, and anal discharge during an acute hemorrhoid attack. Side effects of bioflavonoids appear to be mild and rare, making them a promising treatment for hemorrhoids in pregnancy (the flavonoid tangeretin however, shouldn't be used by people taking tamoxifen for breast cancer).

The major flavonoids found in citrus fruits, diosmin, herperidin, and oxerutins, appear to be beneficial. Daflon, a product made with citrus bioflavonoids was found to improve symptoms in pregnant women by day four of taking it and to reduce symptoms of pain, heaviness, bleeding, itching and discharge.

Witch Hazel Compress or Cream

This drug store staple is made from the leaves and bark of a plant called Hamamelis virginiana. It is not be taken internally but is instead applied to the anal area (on the outside) in the form of witch hazel distilled liquid, ointment, or medicated pads. You can find these at any online retailer that specializes in over the counter medical products.

Witch hazel is thought to decrease the bleeding of hemorrhoids by acting as an astringent- in other words is constructs the hemorrhoid tissue. That's helpful because sometimes these natural remedies for hemorrhoids can keep them from getting too inflamed. It's good for smaller hemorrhoids, but not the bigger ones. If you're not sure about the size, refer to your doctor.

Butcher's Broom

The plant butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus), which is also known as knee holly, box holly, and sweet broom, gets its name because it was once used by butchers in Europe to clean their chopping blocks. Butcher's broom has a long history of traditional use for hemorrhoids and varicose veins. It is often used when there is underlying poor circulation in the veins.

Decrease Inflammation

I know this may sound a little strange, but ice helps. You need to decrease inflammation to the area where your hemorrhoids are so that they stop hurting and irritating you so. When you have nothing else, ice is the best way to go.