Witch Hazel for Hemorrhoids - Does Witch Hazel Help Hemorrhoids?

Looking to use witch hazel for hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids can be particularly painful, and during pregnancy, women are especially vulnerable to this condition due to increased pressure on the rectal and anal muscles. Learn more about hemorrhoids here.

Hemorrhoids are most commonly experienced in the third trimester of pregnancy. However, the condition can be both prevented and treated by adopting several methods. These methods primarily involve reducing anal pressure, maintaining good hygiene, and managing constipation through improved diet.

Hemorrhoids and pregnancy often co-occur. Witch hazel can be a great aid in treating hemorrhoids, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and numerous active ingredients. Learn how pregnancy can impact hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids come in two forms: internal and external. Witch hazel is more effective on external hemorrhoids but can be used for internal ones through specialized creams, ointments, or suppositories.

How Does Witch Hazel Work for Hemorrhoids?

One highly effective treatment for hemorrhoids is witch hazel. Specifically, the Hamamelis virginiana species of the witch hazel plant has shown to be most beneficial. This plant grows naturally in various regions, including Nova Scotia and the Eastern coast of North America (1).

Witch hazel contains numerous active ingredients, many of which are beneficial for treating hemorrhoid symptoms. It's no wonder this plant and its extracts are highly valued (2).

Main Active Ingredients:

• Saponins
• Calcium Oxalate
• Gallotannins
• Tannins
• Safrole
• Catechins
• Eugenol
• Phenolic acids
• Flavonoids
• Carvacrol

Witch hazel has astringent, antibacterial and antiseptic features which makes it perfect for treating Hemorrhoids as these properties helps to minimize the swelling of tissues and cause inflamed veins and blood vessels to shrink.

Also, Witch hazel contains Tannins, which are great compounds for lessening the swelling of tissues and provide swift relief from burning sensations, itching and bleeding.

Witch hazel reduces hemorrhoid pain relatively quickly. Witch hazel also reduces hemorrhoid bleeding as it tightens and shrinks damaged tissue. 

Witch Hazel for Hemorrhoids Reviews - 3 Great Products with Witch Hazel

Does Witch hazel shrink external hemorrhoids?

Witch hazel performs remarkably well against external hemorrhoids.

When applied as hemorrhoid treatment, Witch hazel is used as a topical astringent to the external hemorrhoids, thereby causing the concerned blood vessels to shrink and subsequently causing inflamed tissues to also cool and shrink.

The antibacterial properties of witch hazel help prevent hemorrhoid infections. This is particularly important as hemorrhoids are vulnerable to bacterial infection due to frequent itching and bleeding. It also helps alleviate hemorrhoid itching and burning.

How long can I use Witch hazel for hemorrhoids?

The duration for using witch hazel depends on the severity of your hemorrhoids, which can be internal, external, or thrombosed. In mild cases, a few days of application may be enough to observe improvements.

While witch hazel generally has no declared side effects, consult a hemorrhoid doctor in severe cases or if symptoms worsen.

Most applications are topical. For best results, clean the affected area with a towel soaked in warm water before applying witch hazel.

Ensure that the materials you use with witch hazel, such as pads or tissues, are free from irritants like perfumes or dyes. Read this blog post to find the best hemorrhoid wipes.

Are Witch hazels safe for use?

Witch hazel is generally safe for most people, but consult a physician for non-topical uses or if you experience any irritation.

For pregnant women, consult a doctor before using any hemorrhoid treatments. Witch hazel can also be used as a suppository, but consult your hemorrhoid doctor to avoid complications.

In advanced cases that don't improve, you may require a hemorrhoidectomy or laser hemorrhoid surgery.

Adhere strictly to the doctor's prescription for effective results. Read our list of best hemorrhoid products for more options.

Consult your doctor before combining medications to avoid harmful interactions.