Q: Is there a natural way to treat haemorrhoids?

A: The short answer to this question is, yes. Having said that, it is important to understand a few things about what it is that causes haemorrhoids, and about what sorts of treatment options there are that are available to treat haemorrhoids.

One of the most effective natural ways to treat haemorrhoids is simply by increasing your fibre intake. According to research, fibre can help to relieve the symptoms of haemorrhoids. In addition, fibre will soften stool, and increase the bulk of stool. This helps to relieve straining during bowel movements. Hard stools, as well as straining, will both aggravate haemorrhoids, and sometimes can even make them worse. You can get more fibre by eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, or by using a nutritional supplement that may have fibre in it. Two of the natural fibre supplements available tend to be psyllium and ground flaxseeds.  Another good remedy is to soak a tablespoon of whole flaxseeds (linseeds) overnight and then swallow in the morning before breakfast. 

There are other natural ways to treat haemorrhoids. Topical treatments that contain herbal ingredients tend to be especially effective. Probably the most common of these is Witch Hazel. Witch hazel is produced from the bark and the leaves of the Hamamelis Virginiana plant. Witch Hazel has been used for many years to provide relief for haemorrhoids. Witch Hazel may be available in a balm, ointment, spray, and even medicated pads. Other herbs that may be used as natural remedies for haemorrhoids might include calendula, yarrow, shea butter and St. John’s wort as well as certain essential oils such as peppermint oil or even lavender oil.

As always, if you experience severe pain or bleeding with your haemorrhoids, it is best to speak with your health care provider about how best to treat your haemorrhoids.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 1st, 2008 at 1:40 am and is filed under Ask Marilyn. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.