8 home remedies to treat hemorrhoids and get rid of this discomfort

Hemorrhoids are veins in the anal region that dilate and cause various discomforts, such as pain when defecating, walking and sitting, itching and blood in the stool or on the toilet paper.

The problem can arise as a result of inadequate diet and lack of physical exercise, which lead to constipation. In addition, hemorrhoids are linked to conditions such as obesity, pregnancy, and genetic factors.

When the degree of the problem is not very high, it is possible to treat it by adopting measures such as increasing the intake of water and foods rich in fiber and the use of some home remedies, such as the ones listed below:

1. Witch hazel ointment

Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory action, helping to reduce itching, pain and swelling in the area. There are ready-made versions of witch hazel ointment, but you can make your own at home if you prefer.

For this, you must put 4 tablespoons of plant bark in a pan with 60 ml of liquid paraffin and boil for 5 minutes. Then strain the mixture and add 60 ml of glycerin. The ointment should be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly closed container. Apply 3 times a day.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe vera gel has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to relieve discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. In this case, you can apply the pure gel directly to the region.

One thing to note is that people who are allergic to garlic and onions can have adverse reactions to aloe vera as well, so it’s important to do a patch test on your forearm and wait 24 to 48 hours before applying it to the inflamed spot.

3. Sitz bath with Epsom salt

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) has anti-inflammatory action and helps relieve the itching and pain of hemorrhoids. To prepare the sitz bath, dissolve 125 grams of salt in 4 liters of warm water. Use for 20 to 25 minutes.

4. Ice pack

Low temperatures promote relaxation of local blood vessels, contributing to the reduction of swelling in the region.

If you don’t have a compress bag, you can put ice cubes inside a plastic bag and wrap it in a towel. Let it act in the region for 15 minutes.

5. Psyllium

Psyllium is a natural, water-soluble fiber that comes from the husks of Plantago ovata seeds. It has a very high absorption capacity and increases up to 20 times in size when moistened, forming a gel that favors intestinal functions.

To relieve the pain caused by hemorrhoids, it is indicated to add 1 tablespoon of psyllium to food, which facilitates evacuation.

6. Chamomile infusion

Chamomile is a plant known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory and refreshing properties.

So, you can prepare an infusion with a handful of the dried flowers to 3 liters of water, letting it boil for 10 minutes. After that time, filter the infusion, wait for it to cool and use it to wash the anal area.

7. Sitz bath with cypress

Cypress helps fight the pain of hemorrhoids and stimulates the regeneration of affected tissues.

To make a sitz bath, mix 8 drops of the essential oil of this plant in 1.5 liters of boiling water in a basin. Wait until the temperature is pleasant to the skin (neither too cold nor too hot) and sit on the container for 20 minutes.

8. Scarves with soothing agents

Toilet paper is another irritant for hemorrhoids, so it’s best to wash the anal area with soap and water after bowel movements. However, when you’re not at home, the tip is to carry tissues in your bag to replace the paper.

You can use wipes with soothing agents, such as aloe vera or witch hazel extract. Only use wipes that do not contain alcohol or fragrances, as these substances can further irritate already sensitized skin.

If these home remedies do not work within a few days, you should seek medical attention.

Treatment can include lifestyle changes, the use of ointments suitable for this condition, oral painkillers and anti-inflammatories and, in the most severe cases, even surgery. If you are pregnant, always consult your doctor before using any of these home remedies.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.