IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
Click here for more details

Pruritus Ani

What you need to know:

As long as any serious underlying cause has been thoroughly investigated and ruled out, or is being treated, there are several natural remedies that can soothe this irritating condition.

They include:
  • Pilewort ointment - called by this rather obvious name in the Middle Ages because the roots look like haemorrhoids, for which it’s also effective
  • Distilled witch hazel, kept in the fridge, also relieves the pain
  • Borage - if you have a plant in your garden (and it’s really easy to grow) crush a few leaves to extract the juice and dab on to stop the itching
  • Aloe vera gel

Homoeopathy

The homoeopathic remedies Aesculus, Aloe and Hamamelis could also help.

Aromatherapy

Alternate hot and cold bathing with the aromathapy essential oils Cyprus, Geranium and Juniper are also very soothing. But it’s especially important in this condition NEVER to apply undiluted essential oils and NEVER to use them - even diluted - if the skin is broken.

Other useful advice:

If the youngster is in acute pain, instant relief is only as fare away as your kitchen. Take a handful of ice cubes , put them in a plastic bag and gently massage the painful area. It will hurt more for a moment or two, but before long the cold will anaesthetise the area and it should be pain free for a couple of hours. Repeat as often as necessary, but don’t apply for more than 10 minutes at a time - or 2 minutes for young children.

It’s also important not to use any scented bath preparations or talcum powder on the itchy area. And if the baby or child scratches at night, putting gloves on them at bedtime might help.
Back

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk).
The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.