Alternative medicine isn’t so alternative anymore: many people want to treat their medical conditions without expensive drugs and artificial products. Even if a product is an herb or labeled as “natural,” however, it can still interact with your prescription drugs, so make sure to speak to your doctor before you choose an herbal remedy. The good news for people who want to pursue alternative therapies is that there are many good ones from which to choose.
The goal of natural hemorrhoid treatment is twofold: to relieve symptoms and to keep them from flaring up in the future. A great way to do this is with herbal treatments. The following are traditional herbal remedies that you may find effective:
Yarrow. Yarrow is distinguished by its beautiful little white flowers and is native to the northern hemisphere. It is used to treat wounds, including inflamed veins that have begun to bleed. You can find yarrow in capsules, extracts, and tinctures.
St. John’s Wort. A traditional folk remedy for depression, St. John’s Wort also is useful in reducing inflammation and irritation. Apply directly to the affected area for relief.
Goldenrod. This weed, when applied topically, can help reduce swelling and provide immediate pain relief.
Grape seed. This herb, which is available in an extract at natural health food stores, helps reduce inflammation.
Gotu kola. This is an Indian herb that has been shown to improve vein health and increase blood flow. When combined with gingko, it is extremely effective in improving circulation, which is important for healing affected veins.
Butcher’s broom. This is more well-known in Europe, but you can still find it in natural health food stores. French, German, and Italian researchers have found that this herb helps blood flow more freely in the legs, decreases inflammation, and tones veins.
Depending on the herb, you can either take them orally, drink it in a tea or tincture, or apply directly to the hemorrhoids. Before starting on any home remedy course, make sure to consult your doctor. Herbs are natural, but that doesn’t always mean they are 100% free of side effects. They can interact with prescription drugs or worsen certain existing conditions. It is important to make sure you will only benefit from these herbal therapies. Read all instructions carefully and take exactly as recommended. Herbal remedies can be extremely effective in relieving pain and inflammation in a natural way.