Due to the area of the body where they are found , hemorrhoids are one of the most uncomfortable ailments that the human being can experience, also affecting the mood and altering the individual’s daily life due to how annoying it becomes to suffer from hemorrhoids.
That is why, in the following article, you will find some of the most effective home remedies to relieve inflammation, burning or itching sensations caused by hemorrhoids so that you can resume your daily activities.
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a group of veins and tissues located in the rectum and anus that become inflamed due to alterations in intestinal transit, due to the consistency of fecal feces and the frequency of defecation, as a consequence of constipation, it is also common for appear during and after pregnancy.
You should know: The Cuban Journal of Surgery (1) , describes that hemorrhoids are classified as: internal hemorrhoids, which are those located in the lower portion of the rectum above the pectineal line; External hemorrhoids , located below the pectinate line, are found in the anal canal and perianal region.
Home remedies to relieve hemorrhoids
If you suffer from hemorrhoids, we invite you to review the following list of home remedies to relieve the symptoms caused by this inflammation in a simple way and from home.
1. Sitz baths with warm water
Sitz baths with warm water between 24ºC to 29ºC will help activate blood circulation through the veins and tissues that make up the anus, in addition to relieving pain caused by hemorrhoids , it helps the area relax and decrease the inflammation.
Tip: Make the sitz bath by placing the warm water in a container where you can sit comfortably for at least 15 minutes. You can repeat the bath 2 times a day, especially before bed.
2. Sponges or damp towels
Sponges or wet towels with a little warm water alleviate the symptoms caused by hemorrhoids since medium-high temperature water acts as a vasodilator , that is, it promotes circulation in the affected area.
Note: You should not expose yourself to high temperatures for a long time, as this can increase the size of the inflamed veins. Place sponges or towels soaked in warm water on the inflamed area for a few minutes or until the heat is gone.
3. Ice or cold packs
You can use ice packs or cold compresses , which will help to improve the pain caused by hemorrhoids and relieve the itching sensation caused by the bulging of small veins.
Tip: Apply ice, preferably wrapped in a soft cloth, avoid placing it directly as this can redden the affected area more, or cold compresses on the hemorrhoids, especially when they are external, and leave it to act for 15 minutes. You can do 3 sessions with 5-minute breaks between them.
4. Aloe vera gel
An article published by the Cuban Magazine of Medicinal Plants (2) , states that aloe vera ointment is a powerful healing agent, with effective anti-inflammatory properties to counteract hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
Tip: We recommend making small suppositories with aloe vera gel and applying them 3 times a day for best results.
5. Potato compresses
The potato is a tuber found in most kitchens and if you suffer from hemorrhoids, it will become your best ally thanks to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties , which will serve as the ideal treatment to eliminate the pain caused by hemorrhoids.
Tip: Wash and grate the potato, place it on a clean cotton cloth and apply the compress exerting light pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Chamomile compresses
Chamomile has properties that benefit the relief of hemorrhoids, especially when they are bloody. In fact, the Medicinal Plants pamphlet “The Reality of an Ancestral Tradition” (3) points out that chamomile has the quality of easily penetrating to the deepest layers of the skin and reducing inflammation, thus being an excellent treatment to combat hemorrhoids.
Tip: Make a chamomile infusion where you are going to moisten a cotton cloth, which you can place cold on the hemorrhoids for 20 minutes.
7. Sitz bath with cypress oil
Cypress, a tree native to the northern hemisphere, is known for its antiviral qualities , while its oil has properties that improve blood circulation, thus used to improve conditions such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
To make the sitz bath, you just have to place a few drops of cypress essential oil in a container with hot water. Let the water warm and proceed to sit for at least 20 minutes . It is advisable to do this process at night before bed.
8. Witch hazel ointment
Witch hazel is a medicinal plant that is commonly used in facial products and ointments for hemorrhoids, this is due to its anti- inflammatory , healing and moisturizing properties that significantly reduce external hemorrhoids.
Tip: You can make a homemade ointment by mixing liquid paraffin, witch hazel peels, and glycerin. This ointment should be applied to external hemorrhoids at least 3 times a day.
9. Shea and Camphor Ointment
Shea is usually used in the cosmetics industry, for its properties that help improve and reduce scars and skin lesions, while camphor, in addition to being used to reduce respiratory discomfort, is also used as a topical analgesic.
To make your own shea and camphor ointment, all you have to do is mix beeswax, chopped camphor, and drops of shea oil in a bain-marie. Subsequently, apply the ointment carefully on the hemorrhoids and leave it on preferably at night.
Key Findings
- Hemorrhoids are tissues and veins found in the anal canal and anus, which become inflamed mainly due to constipation or diarrhea .
- Hemorrhoids are classified as internal, external and mixed, depending on where they are located.
- Sitz baths with warm water and cypress oil are ideal for reducing inflammation.
- Cold compresses, applying ice or wet towels, soothe the pain and itching caused by hemorrhoids.
- If the hemorrhoids persist, you should consult your doctor , since they can cause severe pain and major complications.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.