By Dr. Surya Bhagwati
Chief In- House Doctor
BAMS, DHA, DHHCM, DHBTC | 30+ Years of Experience
Piles or hemorrhoids refers to the gastrointestinal condition in which there is inflammation and swelling of veins in and around the anus. The condition is exceedingly common in India, with researchers at Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, estimating that at least 1 million new cases are identified every year. Despite the high prevalence rates, most people know little about the condition, perhaps because it doesn’t make for great dinner conversation and we tend to be squeamish about discussing bowel movements. Unfortunately, piles can be a pretty painful problem to simply ignore. It can cause significant discomfort with symptoms including painful bowel movements, itching, and rectal bleeding. Although piles can usually resolve within a couple of weeks, severe cases can require more drastic intervention.
The Risks of Surgery for Piles
Conventional treatments and home remedies for piles can be extremely effective at providing relief and managing the condition, but there are cases where such measures are inadequate. Surgical intervention may then be prescribed as a last resort. While medical guidelines dictate that surgery only be used when non-surgical treatments have failed, it is not uncommon for some specialists and for-profit hospitals to recommend these procedures even when avoidable. This makes it important to get 2nd and 3rd opinions, especially from respected and experienced doctors. In the case of hemorrhoids surgery, it is particularly important to seek counsel and explore all other options because of the risk of complications.
Minimally invasive techniques that are used to shrink hemorrhoids, as well as Ayurvedic procedures like khara sutra therapy, can be effective and don’t require anesthesia or lengthy hospital stays. However, they can have side effects. When it comes to hemorrhoidectomy, the surgical procedure for removal of severe internal or external hemorrhoids, the risks are even greater. Although regarded as the most effective piles treatment in conventional medicine, it is also associated with the highest rate of complications. Minor postoperative complications can include bleeding, infection, and urinary retention. Severe complications can include fecal incontinence, anal stenosis, rectovaginal fistula, chronic pelvic pain, and pelvic sepsis, which can be fatal. Such severe complications are not as common, but they are a very real threat, making natural cures for piles the preferred first line of treatment.
Natural Treatments for Piles
Ayurved is the best source of information when it comes to natural cures for piles, as the ancient texts offer valuable insights into the condition, which they described as arsha. They also recognized 2 types of piles – dry and bleeding. The most valuable information of course, pertains to the natural home treatments that include both oral remedies and topical applications. Here are some of the best natural remedies for piles.
1. Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk or isabgol is a soluble fiber that works as a gentle and bulk-forming laxative. It passes through the gastrointestinal tract without being broken down completely, instead, taking on a viscous form that eases bowel movements, providing relief from both diarrhea and constipation. Supplementation should be started gradually as a sudden increase in fiber intake can increase indigestion, gas, and bloating. Regular intake of psyllium will not cure piles, but is a sustainable solution to better regulate bowel movements and reduce the risk or severity of piles.
2. Lembodi
The neem tree is highly valued in Ayurved, and most Indians still use the leaves in traditional remedies to manage various ailments. What most don’t realize is that the seeds of the tree also possess therapeutic powers and they are known as lembodi in Ayurved. This herbal ingredient is helpful because of its high soluble fiber content, working in the same manner as psyllium husk. It is an important ingredient in some of the best Ayurvedic medicines for piles.
3. Guggulu
Guggulu is one the most important herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, used in various formulations to treat a range of ailments. It is perhaps best known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, which can also help in the Ayurvedic treatment of piles. According to some studies, Triphalaguggulu, in which guggulu is the primary ingredient, promotes healing of inflamed hemorrhoids, eases bowel movements, and relieves constipation, which is a common cause or aggravator for the condition. To reap these benefits, you can use guggulu supplements or look for Ayurvedic medicines for hemorrhoids that contain the ingredient.
4. Haritaki
Haritaki, which is also often referred to as harda, is another herb that is highly regarded for its digestive health benefits. These benefits can help support digestive functions, reducing the risk of digestive disturbances that can trigger piles or hemorrhoids. Additionally, haritaki has strong anti-inflammatory effects, which can reduce pain and discomfort from piles. Due to its antimicrobial and wound healing effects, the herb can also lower any risk of infection and may speed up recovery.
5. Coconut oil
Coconut oil may be most widely used as a hair oil, but that doesn’t mean it has no other benefits to offer. The oil is regarded as a natural and gentle moisturizer that can be applied topically to relieve painful symptom of piles. Studies show that biologically active components in coconut oil can promote wound healing, which is also helpful in the treatment of piles. The soothing and moisturizing effect of coconut oil can also help reduce irritation and itching associated with piles.
6. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is frequently touted as a cure for every condition. While not all of the claims can be validated, there is overwhelming evidence for its anti-inflammatory and wound healing effects. When applied topically to hemorrhoids, aloe gel can provide quick relief, reducing irritation, burning, itching, and swelling. Keep in mind that cosmetic aloe gels that contain added fragrances and preservatives can aggravate the condition, so only look for products containing pure aloe.
When dealing with gastrointestinal conditions like piles, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures, you should remember that dietary trends towards increasingly processed foods are largely to blame. To effectively manage the condition and prevent any recurrence, it is important that you also make changes to your diet and lifestyle.
References:
- Suma, K C. “A Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding Hemorrhoids among Adults in Selected Hospitals, Bangalore with a View to Develop an Information Booklet.” Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences Karnataka, 2010, https://www.rguhs.ac.in/cdc/onlinecdc/uploads/05_N073_20950.doc.
- Kunitake, Hiroko, and Vitaliy Poylin. “Complications Following Anorectal Surgery.” Clinics in colon and rectal surgery vol. 29,1 (2016): 14-21. doi:10.1055/s-0035-1568145
- Lambeau, Kellen V, and Johnson W McRorie Jr. “Fiber supplements and clinically proven health benefits: How to recognize and recommend an effective fiber therapy.” Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners vol. 29,4 (2017): 216-223. doi:10.1002/2327-6924.12447
- Mehra, Raakhi et al. “A clinical study on the role of Ksara Vasti and Triphala Guggulu in Raktarsha (Bleeding piles).” Ayu vol. 32,2 (2011): 192-5. doi:10.4103/0974-8520.92572
- Bag, Anwesa et al. “The development of Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae) in clinical research.” Asian Pacific journal of tropical biomedicine vol. 3,3 (2013): 244-52. doi:10.1016/S2221-1691(13)60059-3
- Nevin, K G, and T Rajamohan. “Effect of Topical Application of Virgin Coconut Oil on Skin Components and Antioxidant Status during Dermal Wound Healing in Young Rats.” Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, vol. 23, no. 6, June 2010, pp. 290–297. doi:10.1159/000313516.
- Hashemi, Seyyed Abbas, et al. “The Review on Properties of Aloe Vera in Healing of Cutaneous Wounds.” BioMed Research International, vol. 2015, 2015, pp. 1–6., doi:10.1155/2015/714216
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Dr. Surya Bhagwati
BAMS (Ayurveda), DHA (Hospital Admin), DHHCM (Health Management), DHBTC (Herbal Beauty and Cosmetology)
Dr. Surya Bhagwati is an established, well-known Ayurvedic expert with over 30 years of experience in treating and consulting in the field of Ayurveda. She is known for the timely, efficient, and patient-centred delivery of quality health care. The patients under her care receive a unique holistic treatment comprising not only medicinal treatment but also spiritual empowerment.