Bodily discomforts always occur at the most inconvenient times, just when we least expect it. They rear their painful head up as we are going through our day-to-day life and halt us in our places like a big, red warning sign. Although uncomfortable and never wanted, these are signs given by our bodies, telling us to make healthy changes in our lifestyles. So, as much as we may want to close our eyes and ignore them forever, paying proper attention and tending to them is the only way towards a permanent solution.
Such is the case of hemorrhoids, also known as piles, which occur around the rectal or anal region. Hemorrhoids happen in the form of swollen veins in the rectum, or around the anus. This leads to swelling of the surrounding tissue, causing pain. Hemorrhoids usually happen because of either chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, straining during passing stools, lifting heavy weights, or even pregnancy changes.
Usually, hemorrhoids are not serious and go away without even giving symptoms or medical needing treatment. 3 out of 4 adults are said to have experienced piles at least once in their lives, so they are quite common. However, there are chances of them causing discomfort, in which case you may want to seek a solution.
Always consult a medical professional first, in case the situation is more severe than you expect. This is especially true if you are experiencing bleeding or observing hemorrhoids that bulge out of your anus. If your hemorrhoids are not severe, your doctor may allow for certain home remedies to be used. Today, we are going to discuss the possible benefits of one such home remedy: coconut oil for hemorrhoids.
Why Is Coconut Oil Effective For Hemorrhoids?
Before using any remedy, you should always read up on how it works. So, you should first learn the benefits of coconut oil for hemorrhoids. The trick to soothing symptoms of hemorrhoids is soothing the inflammation and swelling. Coconut oil for hemorrhoids is particularly useful in this case as it is a natural analgesic i.e. pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory agent. This means that when applied, coconut oil brings a relieving sensation to that painful region.
Other than that, it also has anti-bacterial properties which in turn help in calming the affected area. Though coconut oil is solid at room temperature, it can be melted into the form of a liquid, which makes it easier for application. The benefits of coconut oil for hemorrhoids are not just limited to external use. You can incorporate coconut oil in your cooking so that it can work internally as well. That way, it also becomes a part of your healthy diet, while also working as a cure for hemorrhoids. Other than the use of coconut oil for hemorrhoids, other natural remedies can also be used. Certain essential oils such as peppermint essential oil, cinnamon essential oil, clove essential oil, etc. can serve as a remedy for hemorrhoids as well.
How To Use Coconut Oil For Hemorrhoids?
Now that you know why this remedy works, you may want to make the most of all these benefits of coconut oil for hemorrhoids. There are many methods by which coconut oil can be used as a solution for piles. You can choose which one suits you the most, depending on your comfort. Here are a few uses of coconut oil for hemorrhoids given below:
1. Applying Directly
Coconut oil can be directly applied over external hemorrhoids, either by itself or mixed with other ingredients. You can apply the melted coconut oil using a cotton swab, carefully dabbing it over the affected region.
coconut oilYou can also mix the coconut oil with witch hazel, which is a plant whose parts are useful for many things, such as relieving hemorrhoids. This mixture will soothe and lessen the pain of the hemorrhoids.
2. Adding it to your Bath
Why not soak yourself in a relaxing bath as you try out the uses of coconut oil for hemorrhoids? This next method lets you do just that by giving you the combined benefit of pain relief and as well as a pleasant atmosphere.
coconut oilAll you need to do is run a warm water bath and add around 1/4th to 1/2 cup of coconut oil to it. When you let your body loosen within this bath, the coconut oil will work on shrinking your hemorrhoids, while the water relieves your aching muscles, giving you the perfect comfort that you deserve. Hence, on the days when you would rather not take too much effort, this might be the solution you are looking for.
3. Making it a Part of your Diet
As we have mentioned before, coconut oil can also work internally by improving your digestion, bringing a laxative effect, which can relieve constipation or straining. All you need to do is slowly incorporate it into your meals, so you can reap its benefits while also enjoying a good meal.
coconut oilThings to Keep in Mind
Remember that even when following natural remedies, you need to exercise a certain amount of caution. Always do your research and find out the possible side-effects, so you can make a proper decision.
For example, coconut oil can disrupt your digestive process, if your body is not used to it and does not take well to its usage. Thus, remember to introduce it to your diet slowly, starting from 1 teaspoon a day, gradually increasing the amount, and not going beyond 3 tablespoons in total. Also, keep in mind that coconut oil has a laxative effect, so do not use it if your hemorrhoids are a result of diarrhea. Knowing the cause of your piles’ problem is important because only then can you apply an effective solution.
Coconut oil is found to be safe for pregnant women, but it is always good to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet and self-care plans. Choose a good quality oil for usage and be aware of its certain properties, such as the saturated fat content which may not be as heart-healthy as people believe.
Keeping your Body Happy and Healthy
Ultimately, the key to a healthy life is constant efforts and change, making healthy decisions whenever you can. It also means respecting your body and its needs, understanding how it indicates these things through signs and symptoms.
coconut oilWhile it may be discomforting to acknowledge any pain or such signs, facing them head-on and working on them is the only way to resolve things. Trust yourself and your ability to take care of yourself, because you are the only one capable of truly making yourself healthy and happy.
Also read: Why Use Tea Tree Oil For Haemorrhoids?
