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Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids (also called “piles”) are troublesome varicose veins in the rectal and anal region, which can lead to protrusion, pain, and bleeding after bowel movements. This condition can occur at any age, and the symptoms can come and go unpredictably. Constipation, overeating, and inadequate exercise may contribute to the problem. Homeopathic remedies can offer gentle, safe relief. (A constitutional homeopathic remedy chosen by an experienced practitioner often helps a person overcome the tendency toward hemorrhoids.) If hemorrhoids are very sore and congested, ulcerated, or bleed profusely, medical care should be sought.

For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also “Using Homeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homeopathy?

Aesculus hippocastanum: When this remedy is needed, hemorrhoids are sore and aching, with a swollen feeling. Pain may last for hours after the bowels have moved. People who need this remedy often have the sensation of a lump, or a feeling that a lot of small sharp sticks are inside the rectum, poking them. Sharp and shooting pains may be felt in the rectum and back. A person who needs this remedy may also have low back problems.

Aloe: Hemorrhoids that are swollen and protrude “like a bunch of grapes” and are soothed by cold soaks or compresses may be helped with this remedy. Hemorrhoids may alternate with diarrhea, and the person may have a lot of flatulence.

Arnica montana: Sore, bruised-feeling hemorrhoids may be relieved with this remedy, especially when straining or over-exertion (for instance, childbirth or heavy lifting) has brought on the hemorrhoids.

Calcarea fluorica: This remedy may be indicated for hemorrhoids with bleeding and itching in the anal region, or internal hemorrhoids causing soreness in the very low back and sacrum. The person may also have problems with flatulence and constipation.

Graphites: Burning hemorrhoids with soreness, cracks, and itching in the anal region suggest a need for this remedy. A person who needs Graphites is often overweight, has difficulty concentrating, and tends toward skin eruptions.

Hamamelis: A raw, sore feeling in the anus, with bleeding hemorrhoids, indicates a need for this remedy. Pulsation may be felt in the rectum, and the lower back often aches. Symptoms may be worse from warmth.

Ignatia: Hemorrhoids accompanied by spasms and stabbing pain in the rectum suggest a need for this remedy—especially if the person is sensitive and emotional. Stitching pains can be felt in the rectal area when coughing. Bleeding and pain are often worse when the stool is loose, and rectal prolapse sometimes follows bowel movements.

Nux vomica: Itching, painful hemorrhoids, a feeling of constriction in the rectum, and chronic constipation with ineffectual urging are indications for this remedy. People who need Nux vomica are usually impatient, tense, and irritable, and often have a tendency toward heavy use of stimulants, strong foods, and alcohol or drugs.

Pulsatilla: When this remedy is indicated, hemorrhoids are itchy and uncomfortable, with sticking pains. They are likely to protrude, with improvement after lying down. Warmth often aggravates the symptoms. This is a very helpful remedy for hemorrhoids that appear during pregnancy or around the menstrual period.

Sulphur: Itching, burning, oozing hemorrhoids accompanied by a feeling of fullness and pressure in the abdomen suggest a need for this remedy. The anus is inflamed and red and may protrude significantly. The person may feel worse from warmth and bathing, and have flatulence with a strong, offensive odor.

Homeopathy Dosage Directions Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually printed on the label. Many homeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient. If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy. For more information, including references, see What is Homeopathy? and Understanding Homeopathic Potencies. Copyright © 1999 Healthnotes, Inc. 1505 SE Gideon St., Suite 200, Portland, OR 97202 Authors of the best-selling book The Natural Pharmacy The information presented in Healthnotes Online is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally oriented healthcare practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. © 2001 The Vitamin Shoppe  The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by The Vitamin Shoppe or the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Please view our full Terms of Use Agreement for more information and the terms and conditions governing your use of this site.