Herbal Treatment for Piles

Piles, or hemorrhoids, are inflamed rectal veins that are inside the rectum or outside the anus. Pain, itching, swelling and bleeding are the most common symptoms of piles. Though herbal remedies are rarely tested by government scientists, you might consider them if traditional medicines and creams do not work to relieve your symptoms. The Mayo Clinic warns that it is important to see a doctor if your piles are bleeding to rule out other serious conditions. (See References).

Soothing Herbs

• Many herbs have soothing properties that can help ease the pain associated with piles. Plantain contains allantoin, a soothing compound. You can apply plantain directly to your piles in place of using medicated ointments or pads. Witch hazel is a cooling astringent that helps relieve pain and itching. Witch hazel is the active ingredient in many commercial hemorrhoid products, but you can purchase it in its pure form from most pharmacies. Use witch hazel on a cotton ball or pad to wipe the affected area or moisten a cotton pad and apply it as a compress. Aloe gel is another natural astringent you can apply directly to your piles to relieve pain and burning. Slippery elm bark and various essential oils, including lavender, lemon, cypress and rosemary, also have soothing properties and can be applied as topical remedies.

Anti-Inflammatory Herbs

• Anti-inflammatory herbs can help reduce the swelling of piles and speed healing. Comfrey has anti-inflammatory and healing properties that might help shrink piles. You can mix powdered comfrey with vegetable oil to make a topical paste or apply the leaf directly to the piles. Make sure to pound the leaf first to soften the hairs on the leaf. Generally, comfrey is not recommended for internal use because it might have liver-damaging properties. Do not use comfrey on bleeding or ruptured hemorrhoids because you don't want it to enter the bloodstream. Pregnant women often get piles because of increased pressure on the rectum, but pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should not use comfrey. Butcher's broom teas and topical medications can help shrink the inflamed veins that cause piles. Horse chestnut also has anti-inflammatory properties, as well as chemicals that strengthen blood vessel walls. It is best to use the herb topically by mixing powdered bark with warm water to make a paste. Too much horse chestnut ingested internally can actually cause constipation, making piles worse.

Laxative Herbs

• One of the most important treatments for piles is make sure your stools are smooth so you are not straining during bowel movements. Several herbs have laxative properties that can help relieve constipation and hard stools. Psyllium seeds help relieve constipation by triggering abdominal contractions. Psyllium also absorbs water in the stomach, making stools smoother and easier to pass. Most health food stores carry psyllium seeds, and many commercial fiber drink mixes contain psyllium seeds as well. Some people might have allergic reactions to psyllium, so stop using it if you experience any allergic symptoms. Aloe juice is a powerful laxative recommended by the German herbal council, Commission E. You should purchase aloe juice from a reputable health food store. Trying to juice the leaves of the plant yourself could result in a laxative that is too strong.