Recent reports suggest that nearly two-thirds of people in the United States, both men and women, get hemorrhoids before they reach 50-65 years of age. Characterized as swollen veins around the anal canal or the anal opening, hemorrhoids were recently one of the top health trends which led to the massive advertisements of OTC treatments, some which are ineffective and often lead to more complications. Fortunately, there are home remedies that are much more effective and are safer to rely on, some of which this article will be discussing.
1. Cold and Warm Treatment
The first thing you should do is to apply an ice pack on the hemorrhoids for at least 15 minutes. The coldness will numb the hemorrhoids, which will provide relief from itching and probably lessen the swelling. It will be a little easier to pass stool when the swelling is reduced. As long as you apply the ice packs for at least 15 minutes, several times a day, you should observe the effects quickly. An alternative to cold compression is soaking the lower part of your body in a tub or basin of warm water for at least 10 minutes. This causes the blood vessels and anal tissues to relax, providing instant relief from pain and also itching. Do not wipe the areas with a dry cloth as this can cause more problems, but rather use a wet soft towel.
2. Use Cider Vinegar
It is often argued that having a warm bath followed by a cold compression will ultimately yield better results; nevertheless, other alternatives should also be considered to provide a little bit of relief from hemorrhoids. Pure and natural cider vinegar, for instance, is very effective, especially when it comes to external hemorrhoids. All you need to do is apply it directly on the hemorrhoids, but be advised, this will sometimes cause a stinging sensation, but the overall pain and itching will reduce in no time. Consuming vinegar with water can also provide relief from internal hemorrhoids.
3. Use Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is said to lift a body’s defense mechanism, enhance the intakes of vitamins and other nutrients in the course of food digestion, and diminish inflammatory reaction in one’s body. All these features allow Aloe Vera to be one of the most efficient home remedies for hemorrhoids. For internal hemorrhoids, cut stripes of Aloe Vera, discard the thorns, leave it in the fridge overnight, and then apply it on the affected area; the icy sensation and the healing property of Aloe Vera will likely relieve any irritation or itching. For external hemorrhoids, just apply the gel extracted from Aloe Vera to soothe the swollen veins.
4. Use Olive Oil or Lemon Juice
Olive oil has essential nutrients and vitamins such as vitamin E, antioxidants, and fatty acids. These essential nutrients contribute to a lot when it comes to soothing the affected area, not to mention reducing discomfort when passing stool. Make sure you consume a small amount of olive oil with food on a regular basis. Just like olive oil, lemon juice has antioxidants that can help relieve the unpleasant symptoms of the condition. You may need to mix lemon juice with garlic and honey to reap the full benefits of the fruit.
5. Use Witch Hazel or Tea Tree Oil
Witch hazel is a form of astringent from the leaves or back of the witch-hazel shrub. It contains tannins, antioxidants, as well as anti-inflammatory properties that make it one of the best alternative to treat swelling caused by hemorrhoids. Apply the fluid to the hemorrhoids using a cotton ball to the affected area at least three times a day. Just like witch hazel, tea tree oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and itching brought on by hemorrhoids. You can apply it pretty much the same way as the witch hazel but combine it with a little bit of olive oil or castor oil because it can sting on its own.
6. Fiber Intake
Hemorrhoids basically result from constipation, so it should be no surprise that using Psyllium husk and other products or food with sufficient fiber content can help mend the problem. Consuming foods and veggies clamped with fiber can help soften stool, not to mention how beneficial this is for a healthy colon. Other sources of fiber can include almonds, prunes, pears, beans, flax seeds, and much more, so it’s important to incorporate them into your diet as you try other home remedies for hemorrhoids mentioned above. It is also imperative that you ensure you are hydrated at all times because dryness can aggravate hemorrhoids. Never use dry cloths or toilet paper to wipe the affected area since this will also worsen the problem. Instead, use unscented moist wipes. And never, ever hold your stool in – relieve yourself as soon as nature calls.
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