8 Ayurveda-based Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids or piles are nothing but swollen veins in the rectum.

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These can cause considerable discomfort. Symptoms include itching, swelling, prolapse (described as something coming out of ano), pain, and bleeding. Hemorrhoids can be internal (those that cannot be felt from outside), external (that can be felt outside) or both interno-external. Internal piles may lead to bleeding that is often painless and can go unnoticed till it causes anemia and fatigue, so one needs to be watchful.

Estimates in India suggest that about 50% of the population would have hemorrhoids at some point in life by the age 50. Moreover, at any given point of time there will be approximately 5% population suffering from hemorrhoids.

Here are some Ayurveda-based home remedies that will:

help alleviate the symptoms
help prevent aggravation
possibly cure the condition, especially in the early stages

All of these are taken from authentic texts of Ayurveda and are tried and tested by Vaidyas over centuries.

Sitz bath

Known as “Avagahana” in Ayurveda, it is highly recommended for painful hemorrhoids. Sitz bath is a hot water fomentation in a tub of suitable size, in which one can sit comfortably.

Take sitz bath two times a day (once after bowel movement in the morning and once at bedtime) for best results.

Guda Aardraka:

A small amount of jaggery and a piece of fresh ginger consumed (preferably chewed) just before meals two times a day is a great home remedy for hemorrhoids. It is also an appetizer and a digestive aid.

Buttermilk (Takra):

Increasing your fluid intake to keep the bowels moving is important. Buttermilk is the elixir or magic remedy for hemorrhoids. Drinking buttermilk (preferably home-made using cow milk curd with fat intact) is advised two to four times a day. This remedy works especially well for the non-bleeding hemorrhoids.

Guda Haritaki:

Haritaki known as Harda/Harra is a well known home remedy. Add a small amount of soft, chemical-free jaggery to 2-3 g of Haritaki powder and consume it two times a day. This is a great laxative and can be given to children above 5 years of age too.

Triphala Choorna:

Triphala choorna needs no introduction. It is a popular mild laxative with amazing health benefits. It is high in antioxidants, keeps the bowels moving, and is great for hair, skin, and eyes. Dose 3-5 g a day at bedtime with warm water.

Draksha

A handful of dried grapes/raisins (popularly called munakka/kismis) consumed every night has more health benefits than one can imagine. Full of antioxidants, this super food not only helps relieve constipation, it also helps eliminate toxins from our body. The awesome taste makes it useful in treating constipation in children.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera juice is a great hydrating and liver detoxifying remedy. It helps relieve constipation by increasing the water content in the intestines. Take 10-20 ml a day to keep the bowel movements regular and smooth. What’s more, it is great for skin and hair too!

Sarjaras Malam

Along with these oral remedies, local application of Sarjaras Malam is recommended in texts of Ayurveda. Sarjaras Malam aka Raal malam is marketed under several brand names. It cuts down the burning sensation and itching instantly. Often, hemorrhoids may also be accompanied by fissure-in-ano. This cream/ointment is useful to alleviate the cutting pain and promote fast healing.

After Avagahana (sitz bath) first pat the area dry with a soft towel and apply a pea-sized amount. For best results, apply 2-3 times a day.

When to seek medical help?

If these home remedies have been tried for more than two weeks and no improvement is seen, it would be better to consult a doctor. Do not ignore rectal bleeding as it may cause anemia and other serious health issues.

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