10 Scientifically Proven Home Remedies for Piles Relief

Piles which is also known as hemorrhoids are the swollen veins around your anus and rectum area. It often leads to pain, itching and bleeding which ultimately causes a huge amount of discomfort in daily life. It is recommended to seek doctor advice for the relief of this discomfort. However, there are some scientifically proven home treatment options which can provide temporary relief and reduce the discomfort. Dr. Azhar Alam is a piles specialist doctor in Kolkata. With years of experience, he has cured a huge number of patients from the discomfort of piles. He recommends 10 such remedies which can promote the healing process in this blog. 

Also Read: Piles and Mental Well-being – Coping with Stigma and Stress!

List of Home Remedies

1. Sitz Bath

Dr. Alam identifies sitz baths as a potential home remedy for piles treatment. The warm water treatment is helpful for reducing inflammation and pain and promoting the healing process. There are certain ways in which you have to take a sitz bath –

• Fill a bathtub with 3-4 inches hot water
• Soak the infected area for 15-20 minutes
• Do it after the bowel movement
• Repeat it two to three times daily
• Add Epsom Salt to it for advanced healing options

The warm water increases the blood circulation to the affected region which reduces the swelling and promotes natural healing process. Dr. Alam recommends it as an essential option to tackle the discomfort.

2. High-Fibre Diet

Dr. Alam suggests that dietary changes are crucial for the treatment and prevention of piles. A high fibre diet is helpful to soften the stools and reduce the strain during bowel movements. The list of high fibre foods are as follows –

• Whole grains: Brown rice, oats, whole wheat bread
• Fruits: Apples (with skin), pears, berries, prunes
• Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, sweet potatoes, beans
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans

Dr. Alam recommends adults to take around 25-30 grams of fibre daily. They should increase the fibre intake gradually to prevent bloating and gas formation.

3. Hydration

Dr. Alam who is a piles specialist doctor in Kolkata recommends sufficient water intake as a crucial part of piles treatment. He advises drinking around 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to keep the stool soft and prevent constipation. Enough hydration often helps to soften the consistency of the stools, reduce strain during the bowel movement, prevent constipation and assists in the fibre work more effectively. 

4. Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel is a natural astringent which is helpful for its anti-inflammatory properties. Dr. Alam often recommends it to the patients. The application method are as follows – 

• Soak a cotton ball with pure witch hazel
• Gently apply to external hemorrhoids
• Use 2-3 times daily for best results
• Available in commercial pads like Tucks

Witch hazel can reduce itching, swelling and discomfort linked with hemorrhoids. 

5. Aloe Vera Gel

Pure aloe vera gel is an effective solution for piles due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce pain and inflammation and promotes faster healing processes. You have to apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the infected area. Use it 2-3 times daily for best effect. You have to make sure that the product is 100% pure without additives. You can use a patch test before using it with full effect. It is recommended to consult with a piles specialist doctor for this purpose. It is shown in studies that the aloe vera gel can significantly reduce the hemorrhoid symptoms for consistent usage. 

6. Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil is highly suitable for piles treatment due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Dr. Alam often recommends it to the patients due to its anti microbial and pain relieving properties. There are different types of benefits for the usage of coconut oil such as reduction of inflammation and swelling, delivery of natural pain relief, acceleration of healing process and assistance in the relief of constipation when consumed. It should be applied directly to the affected area using a cotton ball, multiple times daily.

7. Ice Packs

Ice packs are used as an immediate remedy for acute piles pain and swelling. This therapy numbs the particular area and reduces the inflammation rapidly. You have to wrap the ice cubes in a clean cloth or towel and apply it for 10-15 minutes at a time. Always take 10 minute breaks between applications. However, It should not be applied directly to the skin. Dr. Alam recommends alternating between hot and warm compress for proper relief. 

8. Regular Exercise

Regular physical activities and exercise is essential for the management and prevention of piles. Dr. Azhar Alam, who provides laser piles surgery in Kolkata emphasizes that exercise increases the digestion process, reduces constipation and enhances the blood circulation. There are many helpful exercises such as walking, swimming, yoga and pelvic floor exercises. You need at least 20-30 minutes daily walking. It also helps to maintain healthy body weight and reduce pressure on rectal veins. 

9. Proper Toilet Habits

There are some necessary guidelines about toilet habits which are essential for reducing the discomfort. The best practices include 

• Don’t delay bowel movements when you feel the urge
• Use a footstool to elevate knees slightly
• Avoid straining or holding breath
• Limit time spent on toilet
• Use soft, unscented toilet paper

These simple changes can reduce the pressure which contributes to hemorrhoid development. 

10. Herbal Remedies and Natural Supplements

There are certain herbal remedies which have shown promising results in tackling piles. The herbal options include 

• Psyllium husk: Natural fibre supplement for stool softening
• Horse chestnut: May improve vein elasticity
• Butcher’s broom: Helps strengthen blood vessels
• Flavonoid supplements: Reduce inflammation and bleeding

These home remedies recommended by Dr. Azhar Alam can deliver significant relief and natural healing. Including these remedies in your daily routine can provide relief and support the entire rectal health. However, if the pain or discomfort persists or worsens, it is better to consult with a doctor. Dr. Azhar Alam is one of the best piles specialist doctor in Kolkata.