Although a precise definition of hemorrhoids is non-existent, they can be described as masses or clumps of tissue made up of muscle and elastic fibers within the anal canal that contain blood vessels.

Here’s something you may not know. Hemorrhoids are present in everyone but they are problematic in only 4 percent of the general population. The problems begin to surface when the hemorrhoidal cushions enlarge. Problematic hemorrhoids affect both men and women equally and their prevalence peaks between ages 45 and 65.

Anyone who has ever experienced problematic hemorrhoids can attest that coping with them can be quite uncomfortable. The good news is, there are natural alternatives out there.

Alternative number one----high-fiber diet. Foods high in fiber such as fresh fruit, beans, prunes, raw or cooked vegetables, particularly asparagus, cabbage, carrots, corn, and broccoli prevent constipation. Shoot for 20-30 grams of fiber per day in your diet. Fiber intake must be consistent because the fiber you eat today will not actually have an effect for 2-3 days.

You can also get your daily dose of fiber through supplementing with alternative sources like psyllium or similar fiber supplement product (Metamucil, Citrucel, Benefiber, etc.). Keep in mind that large fluid intake is essential for these products to work.

Other great sources of fiber include:

Whole grains

Nuts and seeds

Legumes

Vegetables

Fluids

Aside from providing the necessary assistance for fiber supplements to be effective, fluids like pure water help to soften bowel movements so they are easier to pass. I recommend drinking a minimum of six to eight 8-ounce glasses of caffeine free fluid per day. Beverages containing alcohol and caffeine tend to cause dehydration and should be avoided.

Taking sitz baths can be comforting and improve hygiene. To clean the anal area and relieve discomfort, try sitting in lukewarm water 2 or 3 times a day for 15 minutes.

Studies have shown a group of antioxidants called flavonoids to have anti-inflammatory effects and/or to strengthen blood vessels. Theoretically, these effects could be beneficial for people with hemorrhoids because loss of vascular integrity can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. A good source of flavonoids is dark berries.

For hundreds of years, herbs have been used as an effective, natural treatment for hemorrhoids. The thing to remember with herbs however is that they contain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. Therefore, herbs should be taken with prudence under the guidance of a practitioner knowledgeable in the field of herbal medicine. Once the precautionary steps have been taken, some great choices are.

Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) – used topically in traditional herbal medicine to reduce inflammation of hemorrhoids.

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) – used for venous insufficiency, pooling of blood in different locations such as the legs.

Grape seed (Vitis vinifera) – used by European folk healers to stop bleeding, inflammation, and pain, such as the kind brought on by hemorrhoids.

Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) - This herb may reduce inflammation associated with hemorrhoids.

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) – applied topically, may prove to be beneficial for reducing pain and inflammation from hemorrhoids.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) -- popular in European folk medicine, this herb has traditionally been used to treat wounds and bleeding hemorrhoids.

Reference: Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al., eds. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Co; 1998.
 

Frank Mangano is a natural health expert and best selling author who teaches you how to dramatically improve your health naturally, without expensive and potentially dangerous prescription drugs. Here’s a special F-R-E-E 38 page report titled, “The Best Natural Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure, Reduce Your Waistline and Take Back Your Health:”