Horse Chestnut Extract for Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen veins in the lower portion of the rectum. Usually, they are caused by constipation, straining during bowel movements and pregnancy. Symptoms include burning, itching, swelling, and sometimes bleeding. If you think you have hemorrhoids, or if you are bleeding rectally, you should be examined by your doctor to rule out dangerous diagnoses.
Horse chestnut extract is made from the seeds of the European horse chestnut tree, and is widely used in Europe for the treatment of hemorrhoids and varicose veins. If you are interested in trying horse chestnut extract, a discussion with your doctor will help you determine whether or not you would be a good candidate for this natural treatment.
Step 1
Obtain horse chestnut extract cream or ointment from a reputable health foods store; it can also be purchased online. The preparation should certify that a toxic ingredient, called esculin, has been completely removed. Make sure the cream contains pharmaceutical grade horse chestnut with 2 percent aescin, the compound responsible for many of horse chestnut extract’s healing qualities.
Aescin appears to have the ability to repair tiny leaks in blood vessels and capillaries, improving their health, strength, and elasticity. According to the Health Library website, a clinical study of 80 people with hemorrhoids indicated that horse chestnut produced significant improvements in pain, swelling and bleeding within two weeks.
Horse chestnut extract is also available in capsule form; it should be standardized to contain 50 mg aescin per supplement.