Haemorrhoids

The best way to avoid piles, or haemorrhoids, is to make sure you don’t get constipated, a common problem in pregnancy. See constipation for advice.

There are herbal remedies which can relieve the condition, however. They include:

  • Pilewort ointment – called by this rather obvious name in the Middle Ages by herbalists because the roots look like haemorrhoids, but it’s a very soothing topical remedy
  • Distilled witchazel, 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

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

    Alternate hot and cold bathing with the aromatherapy 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 your piles are bleeding.

    If you’re suffering an acute bout of extremely painful haemorrhoids, 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 piles. They’ll hurt more for a moment or two, but before long the cold will anaesthetise the area and you 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 you may be in danger of a very unusual and uncomfortable case of frostbite.
     
     
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    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.