Hemorrhoids are one of the most painful ailments an individual can ever experience. Having one (or many) can lead to extreme discomfort. Thankfully, there are herbs that help heal hemorrhoids.

Common Causes

Also called “piles”, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal and rectal area. They are mainly caused by excess pressure on the affected area.

The most common  scenarios that lead to hemorrhoids include:

•    Pregnancy: Increasing uterine pressure adds strain to the rectal area, thus paving the way for the formation of hemorrhoids.
•    Obesity: Excess weight can also increase pressure, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
•    Hardened stools: Diets that are not rich in natural fiber can cause hard stools and constipation, which in turn lead to excess bowel strain as well.

Treatment

Over a third of people in the United States experience hemorrhoids at some point.

Thankfully, they are actually pretty easy to treat. In addition to eating a high-fiber, vegetable-rich diet, the following three herbs can be especially useful in treating hemorrhoids:

Witch Hazel

Though it may have a rather evil-sounding name, witch hazel is regarded as one of the earliest external remedies for hemorrhoids outside of the anal canal.

Fans of witch hazel even go as far to calling it a “healing tree”.

Usually taken from the bark and the leaves, the cream, liquid or ointment is directly applied to the area or by using cotton balls or medicated pads.

Due to its astringent properties, it constricts blood vessels and shrinks the hemorrhoids, thereby reducing the swelling and discomfort.

Butcher’s Broom

The name “butcher’s broom” originated because European butchers used it as a tool to clean their chopping blocks. It is also known as box holly and sweet holly, depending on your location.

Butcher’s broom has anti-inflammatory properties that can constrict swollen veins and tissues. In addition to external application of creams and ointments containing butcher’s broom, it can also be ingested as a tea, capsule, or tincture.

Horse Chestnut

This herb is widely recommended as an internal remedy, best taken as regular small drop doses in tincture form. Capsules and teas are also available, with varying efficacy.

Horse chestnut is another astringent, anti-inflammatory herb, which is known for its ability strengthen the vascular system.

As always, please consult a physician before trying any home-remedies. Many herbal remedies have contraindications that are important to be aware of before starting treatment. You might also want to meet with a local herbalist to find an herbal formulation specific for you and your condition.

For more information on treating hemorrhoids, check out http://www.thehemorrhoidcurecenter.com.

Author Bio:

Alice Boyle is a passionate writer and blogger who loves sharing her thoughts about health and wellness.

She a girl behind the Hemorrhoid Cure Information, a blog which focuses solely on providing ideas and understanding about the hemorrhoid condition.

She believes that through her knowledge and effort of sharing this, she will be able to provide awareness to people who are suffering from this ailment.

It is also he way of allowing people acquire essential details that could help them overcome hemorrhoids.