Psyllium and
Pectin Fiber
A high-fiber diet
including the use of natural plant
fibers such as pectin (fruit
fiber) and psyllium, may be an
effective treatment and prevention
of hemorrhoids. Pectin and psyllium have been
traditionally used as bulking
agents to improve stool
consistency, promote peristalsis,
and reduce straining during
defecation. [4-6]
Bioflavonoids
Citrus
bioflavonoids, such as rutin and
hydroxyethylrutosides (HER),
provide many health-promoting
benefits including hemorrhoidal
relief. Rutin and HER have been
shown to improve venous strength
and function. Numerous studies in
patients with hemorrhoids,
including pregnant women, have
found that HER supplementation
significantly improved
hemorrhoidal symptoms. [7-16]
In one particular double-blind study, 40
patients with hemorrhoids were
administered an oral treatment of
either 4 grams of HER or a placebo
daily. The patients treated with
HER showed a significant
improvement in HER symptoms,
including reduction of bleeding
and pain, as compared with the
patients taking the placebo. [16]
Glycosaminoglycans
(GAG)
Glycosaminoglycans
(GAGs), naturally present in the
blood vessels, protect and
maintain venous strength and
function. In two double-blind
studies, GAGs have been found to
be even more effective in treating
the symptoms of hemorrhoids
than HER or bilberry extract. [17]
Bilberry
Bilberry extract,
or Vaccinium myrtillus, is a
potent flavonoid that protects and
maintains venous strength and
function. Bilberry extract may be
helpful in the treatment of
hemorrhoids. [18]
Gotu kola
Gotu kola extract,
or Centella asiatica, contains
triterpenic acids that enhance
connective tissue structure and
improve blood flow. Gotu kola has
been traditionally used to improve
and support venous function, and
may be helpful in the overall treatment
of hemorrhoids. [19-20]
Butcher's broom
Butcher's broom
extract, or Ruscus aculeatus,
contains ruscogenins that
have
anti-inflammatory and
vasoconstrictor effects. In
study, butcher's
broom has been used
to treat venous problems, including
those associated with hemorrhoids and varicose
veins. [21]
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