Homeopathic remedies for hemorrhoids
Homeopathic remedies for hemorrhoids focus on alleviating the symptoms of swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum, a condition commonly caused by factors such as constipation, pregnancy, and a low-fiber diet. Hemorrhoids can result in discomfort, bleeding, and sometimes anal fissures. Homeopathy, a system of alternative medicine, offers a range of remedies tailored to individual symptom profiles. Notable homeopathic treatments include Aesculus, often used for external hemorrhoids that feel better when bleeding, and Collinsonia, which may help with hemorrhoidal pain linked to alternating bowel issues. Hamamelis, derived from witch hazel, is suggested for throbbing pain and significant bleeding. While some studies have indicated effectiveness, particularly with Nitricum acidum for anal fissures, many existing studies remain observational and inconclusive. Additional remedies, such as Aloe, Arsenicum album, and Sepia, are also considered for specific symptoms related to hemorrhoids. As with any treatment, it's important for individuals to consult healthcare professionals when exploring homeopathic options.
Homeopathic remedies for hemorrhoids
- STUDIED HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES: Aesculus, Collinsonia, Hamamelis, Nitricum acidum
DEFINITION: Homeopathic treatment of swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum caused by constipation, pregnancy, a low-fiber diet, and other factors
Introduction
Hemorrhoids, sometimes called piles, are swollen, inflamed veins in the rectum that can ache and bleed. They are very common and are usually caused by constipation, straining during bowel movements, a low-fiber diet, lifting something too heavy, a sedentary lifestyle, or the extra pressure on the veins during pregnancy. There is also a genetic component to the risk of getting hemorrhoids, and individuals with a genetic predisposition to hemorrhoids are also more likely to develop varicose veins. Sometimes, they are accompanied by a tear in the anus called an anal fissure.
Scientific Evaluations of Homeopathic Remedies
One study evaluated the effectiveness of the homeopathic remedy Nitricum acidum for the treatment of anal fissures, a possible complication of hemorrhoids. This fifteen-day, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of thirty-one people tested N. acidum 9c (centesimals) given for fifteen days. The results showed that the burning sensation caused by the anal fissure was significantly improved in the homeopathic group compared with the placebo group. However, scores for other symptoms, such as itching, lesions, and pain during and after defecation, were not significantly improved. Many further studies have determined that homeopathic treatment of hemorrhoids may be effective, but these studies are observational and inconclusive.
Traditional Homeopathic Treatments
Classical homeopathy offers many possible homeopathic treatments for hemorrhoids. These therapies are chosen based on various specific details of the person seeking treatment.
The homeopathic remedy made from the Horse Chestnut tree, Aesculus hippocastanum, is frequently used for hemorrhoids. Aspects of the symptom picture for this remedy include external hemorrhoids that feel better when they are bleeding, sensations like small poking sticks in the rectum, symptoms made worse by urinating or passing stool, and reduction of symptoms in cool, open air.
Collinsonia is often used when hemorrhoidal pain is associated with alternating diarrhea and constipation and with heart palpitations and swelling of the lips. This remedy is often used during pregnancy. Hamamelis, made from witch hazel, may be indicated when there is a throbbing, raw, aching pain in the anus, made worse for many hours after passing stool and accompanied by significant bleeding. The affected person also may have back pain.
There is a long list of homeopathic remedies believed to play a role in relieving the symptoms of hemorrhoids, and each targets a specific ailment related to hemorrhoids. Aloe may aid individuals who experience hemorrhoids that present like a bunch of grapes outside of the rectum. They may feel hot and burn. Arsenicum album may treat hemorrhoids that burn but are ironically soothed by warm or hot water. Sepia, another homeopathic remedy, is made from cuttlefish ink. Other remedies include Nitric acidum, Nux vomica, Aesculus hip, arsenic, sulphur, capsicum, phosphorus, and many others.
Bibliography
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Gan, T., et al. “Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs for Stopping Bleeding from Haemorrhoids.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2010, p. CD006791. Available through EBSCO DynaMed Systematic Literature Surveillance www.ebscohost.com/dynamed.
"Hemorrhoids." School of Homeopathy, www.homeopathyschool.com/the-clinic/self-help-conditions/haemorrhoids. Accessed 30 Sept. 2024.
Kucukkurt, I., et al. “Beneficial Effects of Aesculus hippocastanum L. Seed Extract on the Body’s Own Antioxidant Defense System on Subacute Administration.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 129, 2010, pp. 18-22.
Samet, Lisa. "Hemorrhoids - A Painful Problem Homeopathy Can Help Relieve." Homeopathy Works, 19 June 2024, www.homeopathyworks.com/dr-samets-insights/hemorrhoids-a-painful-problem-homeopathy-can-help-relieve. Accessed 30 Sept. 2024.