Hemorrhoids are the stretched and inflamed veins in the rectal area. They can occur inside or protrude outside the rectum. Swollen hemorrhoids are caused by constipation, pregnancy, obesity, physical exertion, a low-fiber diet, chronic constipation, standing for a long time and prolonged sitting. Herbal cures can help relieve painful, itchy, burning and bleeding hemorrhoids.
Psyllium
Mix 3g psyllium with 8 oz water and drink daily. Psyllium is sold under brand names like Metamucil. It is a high-fiber supplement made from the husk of the psyllium plant. This adds bulk to your digestive system and creates soft stools. You need to drink eight 8-oz glasses of fluid each day or psyllium will turn into a bowel obstruction.
Witch Hazel
Apply witch hazel directly to hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is astringent and antibacterial. It constricts swollen blood vessels and soothes irritated areas. Avoid the pain of wiping with dry, rough toilet paper and use witch hazel wipes to gently clean yourself. A witch hazel sitz bath will soothe hemorrhoids. Pour 1 pt witch hazel into a couple of inches of warm water. Sit in the sitz bath for at least 15 minutes.
Comfrey
Apply comfrey as a topical balm as needed. Comfrey is rich in allantoin, which is anti-inflammatory and promotes healing. The mucilage contained in comfrey soothes irritations. Look for comfrey balms in health food stores. Make your own by mixing powdered comfrey with a little vegetable oil to form a paste. Apply with a cotton ball and leave it on until the next time you bathe.
Butternut
Take 20 to 30 drops butternut tincture three times a day. Butternut is an effective stool softener and should be taken as long as your hemorrhoids are painful. This will reduce the pressure during bowel movements. Check with your care provider before taking butternut if you are pregnant.
Figwort
Take 20 to 30 drops of figwort tincture three times a day. Figwort works slowly so you may not see an improvement for several weeks. Wait three weeks before judging the results. Figwort is a good treatment for chronic hemorrhoids since it reduces swollen veins.
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