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digestive system
Hemorrhoids
Integrative Therapies
Home Care
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the internal or external anal region. This may be caused by excessive blood pressure in the veins, problems connected to pregnancy, extensive periods of sitting or standing, and strains due to heavy lifting. Other causes include liver disease, a diet too low in fiber, overuse of laxatives, obesity, and intense pressure from coughing, sneezing, or straining during bowel movements.
The most common symptom associated with hemorrhoids is bleeding from the rectum, which may occur before, during, or after a bowel movement. Pain, itching, and irritation, as well as small lumps, may also be present. If there is increasing weight loss, diminishing appetite, a constant upset stomach, or intermittent diarrhea and constipation, consult a physician as soon as possible.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED FOR HEMORRHOIDS AND CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:
1. Vitamin A 10,000 Units per day.
2. Vitamin B-complex 50 to 100 milligrams per day.
3. Vitamin C 1,000 milligrams twice a day.
4. Bioflavonoids 500 to 1,000 milligrams per day.
5. Zinc 30 milligrams per day.
6. Bromelain 500 to 750 milligrams, 3 times a day between meals.
THE PROPER DIET FOR HEMORRHOIDS WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
1. An overall healthy diet This includes using fresh and unprocessed foods as close to the natural state as possible. A healthy diet should include daily servings of leafy green vege-tables, whole grains, fruit, and proteins with a minimum of animal fat. The intake of sugar foods and refined carbohydrates (such as white bread and white rice) needs to be kept to a minimum. For more information, refer to the article on healthy diet.
2. An ample intake of dietary fiber Eat at least 2 of the following foods daily: 1 bowl of salad, 1 cup of cooked leafy green vegetables, 1 apple, or 1 tablespoon of wheat or oat bran.
3. A fiber supplement of psyllium, guar gum, or pectin can reduce hemorrhoids by promoting better bowel movements. Take 1 tablespoon of the supplement in a cup of water just before bedtime.
4. Fluids Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of fluids per day in the form of water, herbal teas, diluted juices, and broths.
5. Eat 1/2 to 1 pound of red-blue berries such as blackberries, cherries, and blueberries, as they contain compounds that strengthen the veins.
6. Beets support the functioning of the liver and promote ease in bowel movements. Eat these several times per week.
HOMEOPATHY:
Some ointments or suppositories are specific for hemorrhoids and contain the following homeopathic remedies:
Hamamelis
Aesculus
Collinsonia
Aesculus and Hamamelis can also be taken internally in a 6C potency. Three pellets 3 times a day are taken while symptoms last.
Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for individuals with hemorrhoids. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.
HERBS USED FOR HEMORRHOIDS:
1. Raw Onions, Garlic, and Ginger are recommended for their ability to break down compounds that clog the veins. Include them in the diet as often as possible.
2. Gotu kola tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract 1 to 2 tablespoons daily.
3. For immediate relief, apply an extract of Witch Hazel to affected external areas with a soft cloth. This helps reduce the pain and swelling.
4. Avoid hot spices, as they may add to congestion and bleeding.
5. A grated potato applied externally may help relieve pain and swelling.
6. Apply an ointment, as needed, that contains Comfrey root, Yellow Dock root, Plantain, and Yarrow to stop bleeding and ease pain.
PHYSICAL THERAPY MEASURES FOR HEMMORHOIDS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
1. Take a warm sitz bath once or twice a day. Boil 4 ounces of the herb Chamomile in a covered pot for 10 minutes, and add it to the water in a bathtub filled about 1/3 full. Sit crosswise in the bathtub with the feet resting on a chair or stool outside of the bathtub. Adjust the temperature to about 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cover the exposed upper body and feet with a sheet or large beach towel and a blanket (preferably wool). Soak in the bath water for about 10 to 15 minutes. A shallow pan or bowl, big enough to sit in, may be used instead of a bathtub.
2. To take pressure off of the swollen veins and promote healing, lay on a slant board with the head downward. This is contraindicated in cases of high blood pressure.
3. Avoiding constipation or hard stools is essential to relieving hemorrhoids. Follow the guidelines in this program. If constipation still remains a problem, listen to our program on constipation
Clinic
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.