Curated by Maria Rita Insolera, Naturopath
Hemorrhoids are dilated veins (varices) located in the area of the rectum and anus. When they are inflamed they cause itching, pain and blood loss with faeces emission. Some natural supplements may help. Let's find out better.
Flaxseed oil among natural supplements against hemorrhoids
What are hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a dilation of the venous network in the area of the rectum and anus. One can distinguish internal (or first degree) hemorrhoids, which do not come out of the anal orifice, and external hemorrhoids that come out during defecation or remain permanently outside the anus.
The causes of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are generally formed due to an increase in the pressure of the veins of the rectum and anus, consequent to constipation, which involves greater efforts to expel hardened feces, heavy lifting, obesity, poor exercise, a diet low in fiber, food allergies and pregnancy.
Hemorrhoids? Try the Aloe vera gel
Food supplements for hemorrhoids
To reduce pain, bromelain supplements can be taken.
- Linseed oil and olive oil lubricate the anal canal and facilitate defecation.
- Magnesium helps prevent constipation and improves the function of the gall bladder, which indirectly interferes with hemorrhoids.
- Taking a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum is very useful for the health of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Vitamin C and bioflavonoids, endowed with anti-inflammatory properties and necessary in the synthesis of collagen, favor the state of health of the tissues.
- Vitamin E, an effective antioxidant, speeds up the healing process.
What is the correct diet in case of hemorrhoids?
Phytotherapeutic supplements
- Paeonia officinalis (peony) : reduces haemorrhoidal congestion.
- Ruscus aculeatus (butcher's broom): the butcher's rhizome, rich in ruscogenins, has a marked anti-inflammatory and decongestant activity.
- Aesculus hippocastanum (horse chestnut): in the haemorrhoidal crisis the horse chestnut acts quickly, showing its activity already 15-20 minutes after administration. It has phlebotonic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Sorbus domestica (rowan): it has phlebotonic and decongestant properties. Indicated in recurrent hemorrhoids.
