Herbal Treatment of Hemorrhoids

There are numerous over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments available but many use synthetic chemicals and many people report that these preparations are often expensive or ineffective.

So, if you would like to try natural hemorrhoid treatment then we have listed some herbal options below that have been reported to be effective by many people.

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana)

Witch hazel is a popular astringent and is commonly found in creams and ointments that provide natural hemorrhoid relief.

The extract from the leaf and bark of this bush is effective in controlling bleeding, swelling and inflammation of external hemorrhoids. You can apply it directly to the affected area externally. It is not be taken internally.

It's available as a cream or liquid and is often contained in other products such as medicated wipes (e.g. "Tucks").

Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus)

Butcher's broom is an evergreen bush that is closely related to asparagus.

The extract of the Butcher's broom root contains the active ingredient ruscogenin which has the natural ability to narrow blood vessels, reduce swelling and inflammation, and strengthen vein walls. This herb is popular for hemorrhoid natural treatment and for treating varicose veins in general.

Butcher's broom is usually recommended in capsule or tea form. The tea has a slightly bitter taste, so you may want to add some sweetener or honey to it. The tea can be made by steeping one teaspoon of the herb in a cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Butchers broom can also be effective when applied directly as an ointment or compress.

Butcher's broom should not be used by people with high blood pressure, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), by pregnant or nursing women, or by people taking alpha blocker or MAO inhibitor drugs unless otherwise recommended by their doctor.

Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum)

Horse chestnut extract contains aescin, which has been shown to reduce swelling and inflammation, improve vein elasticity, strengthen vein walls and improve vein tone. It is thought that aescin does this by plugging small leaks and holes in the veins and capillaries.

Horse chestnut can be taken in capsule form or as a tea. It can be applied externally as a compress.

People with an allergy to the horse chestnut family, bleeding disorders, or taking blood thinners should not take horse chestnut. Use products that have been made only from the seeds or bark of the young branches. Other parts of the plant are poisonous. Side effects are rare but have included kidney damage, severe bleeding, bruising, and liver damage.

Aloe Vera

The extract from the aloe vera plant is well-known for its soothing and cooling qualities and is commonly used to treat sunburn. It also acts as an astringent and can be used to treat hemorrhoids.

Aloe vera gel, or pulp, can be applied directly to external hemorrhoids to relieve the swelling and pain.

Another substance from aloe, called aloe vera latex extract, can be used as a natural laxative to treat constipation. Constipation, which leads to straining, is a significant risk factor that can cause hemorrhoids. The extract is very potent so be sure to use just a small amount to treat the occasional constipation.

Pilewort (Ranunculus ficaria)

Pilewort tones blood vessels and helps to control bleeding.

Pilewort can be used as a tincture applied directly to external hemorrhoids and it can also be made into a tea.

Pilewort has not been a particularly popular choice as a remedy for hemorrhoids due to the lack of clinical studies showing benefits as well as the potential of side-effects such as blisters.

Psyllium (Plantago ovata)

Psyllium is high in fiber and is commonly used as a natural laxative to treat constipation. Constipation, which leads to straining, is a significant risk factor that can cause hemorrhoids.

Be sure to drink plenty of water to take full advantage of psyllium's benefits.

Plantain (Plantago major)

Plantain is high in fiber and has been used as traditional medicine to treat hemorrhoids. Plantain contains allantoin. Allantoin is an anti-inflammatory that can stimulate the immune system and help skin heal from wounds.

Cranesbill (Geranium maculatum)

Cranesbill is a wild geranium plant that has been used by Native Americans to treat various digestive conditions. When used as a poultice, the root and rhizome of cranesbill has a potent astringent quality that can be used as a natural hemorrhoid treatment.

You can read further about a completely natural hemorrhoid treatment program that covers topics such as these in much greater detail, as well as providing details on immediate relief, treatment and prevention of further recurrences of hemorrhoids.