The mainstay of natural hemorrhoid treatment is correcting or preventing predisposing factors, the most important of which, is straining especially constipation. This is achieved by 4 elements; dietary changes, bowel habit changes, behavior changes and herbal remedies.
10 Tips for Natural Hemorrhoids Treatment at Home
The pathogenesis of hemorrhoids requires 2 factors ; A) Weakness of the walls of the rectal veins which is the predisposing factor and this is genetically determined,
and B) Increased pressure inside the rectal veins which is the precipitating factor, and this is acquired. As the first factor is genetically determined, it is the least controllable, but it can be managed by some herbal remedies. The second factor is the mainstay of hemorrhoids treatment, and is controlled by dietary and behavioral modifications with the aim of avoiding straining especially constipation.
Dietary modifications. The aim of these dietary changes is to avoid constipation, which is the main cause leading to the development of hemorrhoids and is the main obstacle against hemorrhoids treatment.
1- Increase the amount of fiber in diet; consume high-fiber foods such as whole grain bread and cereals and raw vegetables and fruits. Decrease the intake of low-fiber foods such as white bread, ice cream and soft drinks.
2- Drink a plenty of water, up to 10 glasses daily, especially if you are taking bran as a stool softener. The aim is to avoid dehydration which will lead to constipation.
3- Avoid coffee and alcohol which causes dehydration which leads to constipation. Also, avoid laxatives, as they may cause diarrhea, which leads to dehydration and in addition, they irritate the bowel. You can take stool softeners as bran or psyllium.
Bowel habit retraining. The aim of these changes is to avoid increasing pressure in the rectal veins by avoiding straining
4- Avoid holding stools. Go to bathroom once you feel the urge to pass stools. Avoid straining, holding your breath, and reading while you are on the toilet
5- Sit on the toilet more correctly. Modern toilet design is considered as one of the factors causing increased prevalence of hemorrhoids in industrial countries, because it is less physiological with the process of defecation, as it requires more straining to empty the bowel, while squatting is more physiological because it allows for complete emptying of the bowel with minimal straining. So, what you are going to do is to assume a position more similar to squatting i.e. flex the thighs upon the abdomen and press by your elbows on your knees
Behavioral modification.
6- Practice exercises regularly. This will help smooth bowel movements and avoid constipation.
7- Avoid lifting heavy objects as much as you can. Also, avoid prolonged sitting and standing.
Herbal remedies. Most of the herbs that are known to be effective as hemorrhoidal remedies will reduce pain and inflammation and help strengthen the skin and venous walls.
8- Comfrey root powder. It has an anti-inflammatory effect and promotes the formation of new skin. The powder is dissolved in olive oil and applied to the affected area.
9- Gotu kola. It has analgesics and anti-inflammatory effects. It is taken as 25 mg three times daily.
10- Horse chestnut. It strengthens rectal veins. The powder is dissolved in olive oil and applied to the affected area.
