Hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside the rectum or around the anus that cause inflammation, pain and bleeding.
These symptoms of hemorrhoids occur on account of increased pressure on the anal veins due to strained bowel movements, pregnancy or childbirth. However, this condition can be easily cured using highly effective herbal remedies, right at home.
Best Herbal Remedies For Hemorrhoids
Butcher’s Broom Extract
This plant, also known as Knee Holly or Sweet Broom, is a traditional medicine used for hemorrhoids. Butcher’s Broom extract has an active compound called ruscogenin with vein-constricting and anti-inflammatory properties. This actually shrinks the swollen veins, eliminating hemorrhoids. The best way to consume this herb is in capsule or tea form.
Horse Chestnut Extract
This herb has an active ingredient called aescin known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Aescin improves blood circulation through the veins. It also strengthens the walls of blood vessels. Horse Chestnut extract is to be consumed in capsule form. This extract can also be applied externally as a compress to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Witch Hazel Extract
The bark and leaves of this plant are used in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Witch Hazel has tannins that act as an astringent. The extracts of this plant are available over the counter as medicated pads or ointments. Such medicated pads have to be used topically over the anus to get instant relief from intense itching, discomfort and pain caused by hemorrhoids. Witch Hazel extract cools and nourishes the affected veins, reducing swelling to a great extent.
Goldenrod Extract
This herb is used in the topical treatment of hemorrhoids. It has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that fight infection and reduce swelling. Goldenrod extracts are available as ointments and essential oils at local health stores. Do note that the essential oil must be diluted with a base oil like coconut oil to prevent skin irritation.
Comfrey Root Powder
This is a popular hemorrhoid remedy that is widely used since ages. Comfrey root powder contains allantoin that increases the proliferation of healthy cells and heals hemorrhoids. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate pain and swelling. Make a paste of Comfrey root powder with flax seed oil or olive oil. Apply this topically to the anal area for relief from hemorrhoids. This powder is available at local health stores.
Neem Leaves
The leaves and seeds of this tree are used in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Neem has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a paste of dry Neem seed powder or Neem leaves mixed with coconut oil, topically to external hemorrhoids to speed up healing. Neem controls bleeding, besides reducing swelling and pain due to hemorrhoids.
Gotu Kola Extract
This is yet another traditional herb used for curing hemorrhoids. It has triterpenes that improve the health of swollen veins. Gotu Kola extracts promote healthy connective tissue in the veins. It reduces reduces pain, swelling and extreme discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
In case you suffer from other illnesses in addition to having hemorrhoids, it is best to consult your doctor before trying out any of these herbal remedies.