What are hemorrhoids? They are veins in your anus and rectum that has become swollen and inflamed. It is a common condition between ages 45 to 65 years. Typical symptoms of hemorrhoids include acute pain, itching and irritation around the anus, painless bleeding at the end of bowel movement especially in internal hemorrhoids, feeling of having the urge to have bowel movement even if there is no stool anymore.

The most common cause of hemorrhoids includes pregnancy, constipation, obesity, poor diet, inactive lifestyle and excess straining. There are a number of treatments available for hemorrhoids like over the counter prescription, creams and even surgical procedures. But sometimes these treatments can bring risks and cause unwanted side effects. With natural hemorrhoid treatment, you can still reduce the pain and inflammation or better yet, completely eliminate the hemorrhoid. Here are some remedies to treating a hemorrhoid naturally.

Lifestyle Change

If you are always stress or you don’t get enough exercise then it might contribute to hemorrhoids. To prevent it from occurring, have regular exercise, especially exercises that will help strengthen abdominal muscles. It can help relieve stress and constipation.

Proper Diet

Include high-fiber rich foods in your diet as it can help prevent hemorrhoids. Good fiber sources include wheat, grains and fruits and vegetables. Avoid processed and sugary foods as they are very low in fiber. Eat frequent small meals a day and most importantly, drink lots of water and healthy juices. A high-fiber diet is also a natural hemorrhoid treatment during pregnancy.

Herbs

There are many herbal products that can treat hemorrhoids:

• Witch Hazel: The leaves and bark of this plant can minimize hemorrhoids. But it should not be taken internally but it is a topical treatment instead to the anal area. It can decrease bleeding and relieve pain, itching and swelling. Witch hazel comes in form of distilled liquid, ointment or medicated pads.
• Butcher’s Broom: This herb contains an active compound called “ruscogen” which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and vein-constricting properties. It can improve the tone and integrity of veins and shrink the swollen tissue. Butcher’s broom can be taken in capsule or tea form or you can also apply it topically or use it as compress. However, butcher’s broom is contraindicated with people with hypertension, pregnant or nursing women, those who are taking MAO inhibitors and alpha blockers.
• Horse Chestnut: Like butcher’s broom, this herb relieves poor circulation in the vein, swelling and inflammation, and it also strengthens blood vessels due to its active compound called “aescin.” Horse chestnut comes in tea or capsule forms and can be also applied as a compress. You should only take products made from seeds or bark of the young branches as other parts of the plants are poisonous. Horse chestnut is not recommended for people with bleeding disorders or those who are taking blood thinners.

Other natural hemorrhoid treatments may also include taking vitamins C, K, E and bromelain. A hot sitz bath can also be relieving and so with cold water compresses.