External Hemorrhoids Treatment

By: Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, Ph.D, ND, DACBN
updated on 06/07/2006 at 03:44PM

Although external hemorrhoids can be an irritating and painful disorder, they can usually be treated at home with a few simple lifestyle changes. Medication may be necessary to alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids until they disappear. Depending upon your preferred method of treatment, there are several conventional, herbal, and homeopathic remedies that can be used to treat the symptoms of external hemorrhoids.

Conventional Preparations

Local Anesthetics

Local anesthetics such as Benzocaine, Lidocaine, and Tetracaine can be used to numb the area and temporarily relieve the pain associated with external hemorrhoids.

Vasoconstrictors

Vasoconstrictors such as Epinephrine Base, Epinephrine Hydrochloride, Ephedrine Sulfate, and Phenyleprine Hydrochloride shrink blood vessels and reduce swelling in the affected area. They can also help to relieve the itching and discomfort caused by tightened blood vessels. Do not use these preparations if you have heart disease, hypertension, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate. Check with your health care provider if you have questions about these medications.

Astringents

Astringents are drying agents that can be used to relieve the itching and irritation associated with hemorrhoids. Witch hazel, Calamine, and Zinc Oxide all help to shrink external hemorrhoids by pulling water out of the swollen hemorrhoidal tissue.

Protectants

Protectants help to coat the skin. They soothe inflamed tissues, prevent drying, and prevent further irritation. Cocoa butter, Lanolin, Glycerin, Mineral Oil, Vaseline, Topical starch, and Shark liver oil all make excellent protectants.

Hydrocortisone

Hydrocortisone creams and suppositories help to reduce the inflammation, swelling and anal itching associated with external hemorrhoids.

Herbal Remedies

An herbal remedy is one that is made from a medicinal plant or a mixture of medicinal plants. It is used to prevent and treat diseases or illnesses or to promote health and healing. There are several herbs which can be used to alleviate the pain, burning, swelling, itching, and discomfort that is associated with hemorrhoids. I recommend the product Hematrex.

Aloe vera: In gel form, aloe vera can be applied directly to the anus to relieve the pain and burning associated with external hemorrhoids. It is best to use fresh pulp for this remedy.
Barberry (Berberis aristata): Barberry is a blood purifier that can be used to promote healthy intestinal microbial balance and normal liver and gallbladder function.
Bayberry, goldenseal root, and myrrh: These herbs can all be used separately in salve form in place of conventional hemorrhoid preparations. They work just as well, if not better than, traditional products.
Butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus): This herb is used to treat both varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It has vein-narrowing qualities that can help to relieve the discomfort of external hemorrhoids and other circulatory conditions.
Collinsonia root (Collinsonia canadensis): Commonly called stone root, collinsonia root can be used to relieve itching of the anus, sharp pains in the rectum, dry stools, and recurrent constipation
Comfrey Root: Powdered comfrey root can be made into a paste and used in a poultice to stem bleeding that may occur with external hemorrhoids. However, comfrey root is recommended for external use only.
Elderberry: This herb can be made into a poultice to relieve the pain associated with hemorrhoids.
Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum): This herb can be used to increase the strength and tone of veins. It has both astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, and it can be used internally to treat hemorrhoids. It can also be used to soothe the irritated tissues of external hemorrhoids
Lady's Mantle (or yarrow): Brew lady's mantle into a strong, warm tea and apply with a sterile cotton ball several times a day.
Mullein: Like elderberry, this herb can be made into a poultice and used to alleviate the pain associated with external hemorrhoids.
Neem (Azadirachta indica, margosa): Neem is recommended in the Ayurvedic tradition for the treatment of external hemorrhoids. It has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pain relieving properties. It also helps to prevent hemorrhoids from developing by promoting healthy digestive functioning and avoiding constipation. Neem extract can be applied topically to external hemorrhoids to soothe irritation and itching and control bleeding.
Psyllium: This herb is a laxative and demulcent that can be used for the temporary relief of constipation. Avoiding constipation is one of the best ways to prevent hemorrhoids and reduce further irritation for external hemorrhoids that have already developed.
Pulsatilla: Also known as peony, pulsatilla can be used for hemorrhoids that itch with a sharp sticking pain. This remedy is particularly helpful for external hemorrhoids that occur during pregnancy or around a menstrual period.
Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva): Slippery elm helps to soften and soothe external hemorrhoids and other external inflamed tissues.
White Oak bark: (Quercus alba): White oak bark is known for it's astringent properties. It can also encourage tissue proteins to tighten, strengthening vascular walls. Oak tannin is able to bind liquids, absorb toxins, and soothe inflamed tissues. This herb can also help to alleviate diarrhea which could further aggravate hemorrhoidal symptoms.
Witch hazel (Hammamelis virginana): Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can be used to reduce the swelling and inflammation that is commonly associated with external hemorrhoids. It is also effective in stemming the flow of blood and reducing secretions that may irritate the affected area. Apply witch hazel three times a day with a sterile cotton pad to shrink swollen tissues.

Other herbs that may be beneficial in the treatment of hemorrhoids include buckthorn bark, parsley, and red grape vine leaves.