Hemorrhoids are veinous cushions around the anal opening which can be internal or external. Almost 50% of the Western population develops unhealthy hemorrhoids at some point in their lives, and in my profession I see the condition daily.

Symptoms can be – swelling, itchiness, bleeding, irritation and pain. It can make life very uncomfortable – traveling, driving – sitting anywhere becomes an issue. Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the lower rectum and wall of the anus. It happens when there is too much pressure and this causes the small veins to swell and fill with blood. Straining during bowel movements from an improper diet and insufficient fiber can create a constant issue. Pregnancy for women can also cause this problem.

Hemorrhoids can be treated and prevented using natural remedies. What are a few things you could do to improve the situation?

THINK FIBER!

We have such a high incidence of hemorrhoids in the western hemisphere because of our refined food / fast food lifestyle. Changing the diet, exercising, drinking plenty of water and taking a serious look at stress levels can all make an impact on your well-being. Good fiber is my mantra to all my clients!

Fiber ends constipation, can stop hemorrhoids, firm up loose stools, absorb toxins in the gut – and even feed the good bacteria that need to proliferate within our ecosystems!

Raw and steamed vegetables should be a large part of your diet – staying away from the higher starch vegies like white potatoes and the high sugar fruits. Juicing greens is also helpful for good bowel movements and healing hemorrhoids.

You may supplement the above by adding a TBSP of Organic Psyllium Husk/Seed, 1 TSP Slippery Elm Bark powder, and 1 TBSP of Organic Coconut Oil all to a ½ cup of water in a jar with a lid – shake and drink immediately 2x a day.

1 TSP Magnesium in carbonate and/or citrate powder form – swished in some water 2x a day can also be very helpful.

WITCH HAZEL

Use Witch Hazel topically, in the form of a cream, liquid or compress. The leaves and bark of this plant have been used as a remedy for hemorrhoids since ancient times. It will help to shrink the swelling of the hemorrhoid, reduce the bleeding, and relieve the pain and itchiness. You can buy pads pre-soaked with Witch Hazel, or apply pure Witch Hazel yourself to the affected area, using a cotton ball. Aloe Vera gel could be to this if you desire.

A warm bath is soothing – add witch hazel to the water and soak until the discomfort has ceased. Witch Hazel is a versatile herb that is used topically for various conditions.

STONE ROOT WITCH HAZEL SUPPLEMENT

This can be found in capsules or in tincture (liquid) form. The capsules by Eclectic Institute contain concentrates of Stone Root, Witch Hazel, Bilberry and Gotu Kola. Tincture forms of Stone Root Witch Hazel are also available. These can be found online.

BUTCHER’S BROOM HERB

Despite the bloody sounding name, butcher’s broom tightens and strengthens the veins and acts as a vasoconstrictor that narrows the blood vessels as well as an anti-inflammatory. The extract can be consumed in capsules or as a tea.

SQUAT! 

After over 12 years as a National Board Certified Colon Therapist, the #1 most important nugget of truth is that there is only one way to have a bowel movement that has health benefits. SQUAT! All throughout Asia and the Middle East – in the best hotels – are toilets that you squat over. You strain less and this in itself is hemorrhoid prevention. In countries where people squat when going to the toilet, hemorrhoid problems are almost non-existent.

You can add a step-stool that would fit around the base of your toilet at home. If you are handy, you could make one – they are very basic. Using it will put your rectum (anal opening) into a tilted position where your bowel movement will slide out painlessly and easily. It is the most natural way to open up the bowels.

Wendy McPhail, CNC, NBCCT, FDN-P (Functional Nutrition)