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Hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable, terrible, annoying, and a pain in the behind! Coconut oil for hemorrhoids are known to be an effective and affordable way to ease the pain due to inflamed veins, soothes the affected area, and helps in faster healing of infections. We all know that this condition can be very painful, but it is harmless. It can be easily cured using home remedies like coconut oil. Coconut oil brings plenty of beneficial properties when it comes to healing hemorrhoids, such as anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties.
What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are also known as piles or distended varicose veins in the anus. They are swollen veins that occur in the lower part of your rectum and anus and are very common among people aged 20 to 60. Hemorrhoids may be found and located inside the rectum and are referred to as internal hemorrhoids. Those found and develop under the skin around the anus are referred to as external hemorrhoids.
Excess and increased pressure on the veins can cause them to weaken, allowing blood to flow in the wrong direction or to pool and stagnate. The vein may be engorged with blood, which, if in the anus, results in hemorrhoid. The swollen wall of these veins are very fragile, may rupture and cause bleeding. These hemorrhoids may also result from straining during bowel movements and also due to increased vein pressure during pregnancy. It is not a rare condition, and many people happen to experience this, and it will occur most likely to those who are constipated, obese, and pregnant women.
Often, hemorrhoids are painless yet are still annoying and itchy. But, there may be times that they become painful thrombosed hemorrhoids because of blood clots. These may not be too dangerous but are extremely painful and sometimes may require surgery. Fortunately, there are affordable and effective options to relieve and treat hemorrhoids. The right use of coconut oil for hemorrhoids is one of the easiest, cheapest and most effective way to manage and reduce them.
Coconut oil for hemorrhoids
Many people and even experts refer coconut oil as a natural and gentle remedy for hemorrhoids. Apple cider vinegar is also known to be a remedy, but it reportedly stings. Coconut oil, on the other hand, is more on the soothing side.
You can easily turn coconut oil into homemade suppositories, topical cream or balm, and incorporate them into your everyday diet for easy consumption. Coconut oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties which can greatly help to promote fast healing of hemorrhoids. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help relieve itching and discomfort. The fatty acids in coconut oil, specifically lauric and caprylic acid can help in fighting pathogens such as bacteria and fungi. This makes coconut oil as a potential substance to prevent infections. Coconut oil is also known to work great miracles on the skin and can restore damaged tissues around the anus region.
The reason why coconut oil works as an excellent remedy for hemorrhoids is that of its incredible compounds. It is even considered as a superfood. The fantastic compounds are the fatty acids such as caprylic and lauric acid. These fatty acids, as mentioned above, are antimicrobial agents which means they can heal the infection. They are also anti-inflammatory agents, thus able to promote healing and reduction of rectal swelling. It also contains a good deal of vitamin E that can contribute to healing since it is also a potent antioxidant.
The Best Coconut Oils
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Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
The Nutiva organic virgin coconut oil is made from fresh coconuts and not dried copra, so it has better scent and taste. It is also certified organic, and Nutiva claims that they only use coconuts that are non-GMO. The Nutiva coconut oil was not also processed using heat, therefore, avoiding potential damage and reduction of fatty acid content. Nutiva claims that their coconut oils provide up to 50% of the essential fatty acid, lauric acid. Their coconut oil is very smooth, light, and creamy. It is also unrefined and chemical-free. It is unbleached, non-deodorized and non-hydrogenated. This organic coconut oil gives off a pleasant fresh coconut smell. Besides from being a nutrition-packed oil, it also has great topical benefits. It is a good moisturizer that may relieve itchy areas and soothe damaged skin due to hemorrhoids.
2
Island Fresh Superior Coconut Oil
The Island Fresh coconut oil is also processed through cold pressing, just like olive oils, to avoid damage and destruction of essential fatty acids. Their coconut oil undergoes no refinement to ensure high coconut oil standards. Island Fresh boasts of the amazing taste, aroma, and texture that this coconut oil can offer. It also supports metabolism plus it is a great source of energy for weight management and active metabolism. This not only does best when it comes to the culinary side but also to skin and hair problems. Due to its antimicrobial and healing properties, the virgin coco oil by Island Fresh Superior will also work best for hemorrhoids. It is certified organic and on-GMO.
3
Carrington Organic Coconut Oil, Extra Virgin and Unrefined
The Carrington Farm produces amazing, cold-pressed organic virgin coconut oil derived from the freshest coconuts. This unrefined coconut oil contained no trans and hydrogenated fats and packaged in the right way to retain original nutrient content and flavor. This is not only great for baked goods, savory food, and popcorn but also an effective hair and skin moisturizer. This extra virgin and unrefined coconut oil is a delicious replacement for butter and makes a good mix into smoothies and cereals. It is also a soothing way to relieve bee stings, bug bites, and even heal wounds. This can also help a lot in treating hemorrhoids. Refrigeration is not necessary for the Carrington organic coconut oil.
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Garden of Life Organic Raw Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Raw extra virgin coconut oil is a cold-pressed organic and non-GMO coconut oil. The Garden of Life coconut oil is very aromatic and has a great coconut taste since it is not hydrogenated and refined. It also has not undergone bleaching and deodorization. This raw extra virgin coconut oil one of the most versatile dietary oils and fits most of your recipes. This oil is made from the finest and organically grown coconuts that are cold-pressed to extract high-quality oil. It contains essential fatty acids, including lauric acid and caprylic acid that are very helpful for the treatment of hemorrhoids. Consumption of this coconut oil at recommended levels will help maintain healthy levels of cholesterol.
5
Spectrum Organic Virgin Unrefined Coconut Oil
Unrefined oil is the raw, virgin or cold-pressed form of coconut oil, and is solid at room temperature but turns to liquid when exposed to even mild heat. This coconut oil is best for cooking and blending with fruit smoothies. The Spectrum unrefined coconut oil is filled with rich aroma and taste that makes it a great complement to any snack or drink. It also has a natural coconut scent that gives off a pleasant aroma when rubbed on the skin as a moisturizer. It effectively soothes inflammation and irritations.
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Nature’s Way Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Nature’s Way coconut oil is a good source of energy, good for cooking and is made from non-GMO coconuts. It is organic, extra virgin, unrefined and free from the bleach. Like all the other featured coconut oil, this is also rich in essential fatty acids such as lauric, caprylic, and capric acid. This coconut oil is also hexane-free and non-hydrogenated. Some enjoy this coconut oil straight from the jar or incorporated into favorite drinks and dishes. The rich aroma of this oil also gives off a nice relaxing scent when rubbed on skin or hair as a moisturizer. Since this is rich in lauric and caprylic acid, this will also work as a good home remedy for hemorrhoids.
7
Viva Naturals Coconut Oil
This is cold-pressed organic coconut oil that is non-GMO and certified gluten-free. The top-grade coconuts used to produce viva coconuts oils are grown from the rich volcanic soils of the Philippines. This awesome Coconut Oil by Viva Naturals is unrefined, harvested at the ultimate freshness, and extracted to become the purest oil. This coconut oil is free of pesticide, bleach, hexanes, and other harmful chemicals. It is also unrefined and unfiltered. It may be taken as a dietary supplement, for cooking, baking and as part of your natural beauty routine, and as an aid to treat hemorrhoids.
Types of hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids
These hemorrhoids lie inside the rectum, thus the description “internal.” They exist only inside the rectum and are far enough that you can’t see them. And if these hemorrhoids are located in places where there are not enough nerve endings, then you will not be able to feel them either. This type of hemorrhoids is recognized and identified because of bleeding. This happens when you strain during a bowel movement, this can result in irritation and cause hemorrhoid inside to bleed.
Rectal bleeding due to hemorrhoids may not require as much treatment since they get to heal on their own through natural remedies. But if you occasionally push, strain and have a hard time during bowel movements, then you might tend to push internal hemorrhoid towards the anus. This will then become protruding hemorrhoid or prolapsed hemorrhoid, and it may cause pain and irritation. Coconut oil may be incorporated into your diet to help treat internal hemorrhoids.
External hemorrhoids
This type of hemorrhoid is more itchy and uncomfortable compared to the internal ones. External hemorrhoids are found outside or under the skin of your anus. So, this type can be easily seen and felt. These hemorrhoids found externally are much more painful, it is because the anus is lined with many sensitive nerve endings. When irritated or scratched, these hemorrhoids may bleed. People with this type of hemorrhoids may seek treatments to deal with the inflammation, pain and possible infection. Coconut oil, if applied topically, may offer relief for external hemorrhoids.
Thrombosed hemorrhoids
People and physician often refer to this type as the ugliest form of hemorrhoids. They appear as swollen with a bruise-like color and may rupture. Their appearance might be alarming, but these type of hemorrhoids are not indicative of serious health problems. Thrombosed hemorrhoids happen when blood may pool and form a clot or thrombus in external hemorrhoid. And this can result in severe pain, discomfort, inflammation and a lump in your anal region. The best way to promote healing when it comes to this kind of hemorrhoid is to keep them regularly clean and avoid irritation. The anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil may also be an adequate natural remedy for thrombosed hemorrhoids.
Prolapsed hemorrhoids
An external lump or inflamed tissue that protrudes from the anus is a distinguishing characteristic of a prolapsed hemorrhoid. This type of hemorrhoid results from internal hemorrhoid that has prolapsed, leaving the rectum and become protruded outside the anal area. Since these prolapsed hemorrhoids extend from the inside to the outside of the anus, they tend to put pressure on nerve ending, therefore making it painful and uncomfortable. You can recognize prolapsed hemorrhoids easily through their appearance. Unlike thrombosed hemorrhoids which are hard lumps, these prolapsed ones are a lot softer and look like puffy pads that look lighter and pinker than the skin of the anus. Often, these type of hemorrhoids can recede into the rectum on their own. Inflammation due to prolapse can be relieved by incorporating coconut oil into your warm bath.
Hemorrhoid symptoms and causes
Common signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids
- Pain and discomfort during bowel movements.
- Bleeding or small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet tissue paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
- Anal itching and irritation around the anus.
- A lump or swelling around your anus.
- Mucoid and bloody discharge from the anus.
Common causes of hemorrhoids
The blood vessels around the anal area may stretch due to too much pressure and result in bulging or swelling. Increased demand in the lower rectum may be due to:
- Pregnancy (due to the enlarged uterus that may increase pressure on the rectum and anus. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy may weaken the muscles that support the rectum and anus region).
- Chronic digestion problems such as diarrhea and constipation
- Diarrhea, acute or chronic
- Being overweight or obesity
- A diet that is low in fiber causing hard stools that cause strain and are difficult to pass.
- Straining during a bowel movement.
- Previous rectal surgery
- Various colon illnesses and colon cancer
- Spine injury or lack of proper posture
- Anal intercourse
- Prolonged stay or sitting in the toilet seat will also increase pressure within the hemorrhoid blood vessels.
- Old age
How to use coconut oil for hemorrhoids
Coconut oil is a very easy-to-use home remedy for hemorrhoids and improving hemorrhoid conditions. It is even very versatile and can be used in many ways that you can choose from, such as topical application, homemade suppository, incorporated in the diet, coconut oil balm, and using it with other natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and many more.
Coconut oil applied topically
Before applying coconut oil on hemorrhoids, always make sure to clean the area with gentle baby wipes or any gentle cleansing solution. Avoid using harsh soaps and cleaners that contain alcohol since it will possibly irritate. Excessive rubbing should also be avoided as it can cause pain and even bleeding.
When the anal area has been cleansed, you can apply the virgin coconut oil using a cotton pad or a cotton ball. Coconut oil is packed with anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, and it should help in containing and healing hemorrhoids faster. For best results apply coconut oil on the affected area for up to three times a day. Topical application of coconut oil will only work best if you do it on a well-cleansed area.
Homemade coconut oil suppository
A suppository is another way to deliver a drug. It’s a small, round or cone-shaped object that you put in your body, often into your bottom. Once it’s inside, it melts or dissolves and releases its medication (WebMD). Making a suppository out of coconut oil is an easy task and will help you get better relief from hemorrhoid symptoms.
You can prepare a coconut oil suppository by heating virgin coconut oil and cool it down until it is in a semi-solid and easy to mold state. Place the oil on a wax paper or an aluminum foil and roll it into a cylindrical shape in the size of a pen or pencil. Store and freeze for 20 to 30 minutes or until it becomes hard and solid enough to be cut into one-inch pieces. Take one coconut oil suppository and insert it into the rectum, far enough that it won’t be able to slip out. You can do this once or twice a day. You do not have to worry about pain or discomfort since coconut oil tends to melt quickly. Also, after inserting the coconut oil suppository, try not to empty your bowels for at least an hour.
Incorporate coconut oil in the diet
Coconut oil, when taken orally, helps in getting rid of indigestion and constipation. And by getting rid of them, you also prevent the possible occurrence of additional hemorrhoids and promote faster healing. You can use coconut oil in cooking, an additional ingredient for your everyday dishes, and salad dressing. You can even mix them in your favorite drinks and smoothies. Simply eating a tablespoon of coconut oil at a time is also effective. Choose an extra virgin coconut oil that is less processed if you wish to incorporate it into your diet.
Coconut oil balm
For an effective coconut oil balm, you can thoroughly mix the melted coconut oil and beeswax. Let them solidify together in a balm container. Beeswax is an effective moisturizer and can quickly relieve itching as well. So it would be very helpful to incorporate it when making your coconut balm. Apply it three to four times a day in a clean area.
If you are making it for your hemorrhoids alone, it would be better if you add no fragrances. But if you’re making another batch as a body balm, you can add lavender, jasmine or any scent of your choice.
Incorporate coconut oil into baths
You can easily add about a half cup of virgin coconut oil to your warm bath. The mixture of warm water and coconut oil will both be soothing and can help shrink hemorrhoids while bathing and relaxing. This may also offer relief from symptoms such as itching, inflammation, and irritation. As an added benefit, the coconut oil will make the rest of your skin soft too.
Coconut oil blends
Coconut oil and apple cider vinegar
These two combined makes a powerful blend to combat hemorrhoids. A combination of organic apple cider vinegar and coconut oil is very effective in healing both internal and external hemorrhoids. They create a blend which effectively reduces pain, swelling, irritation, and itching caused by hemorrhoids. You can mix a tablespoon or two of coconut oil to an ounce of apple cider vinegar. Soak a cotton pad or cotton ball in a mixture and apply twice a day on the clean area.
Coconut oil and aloe vera
A combination of aloe vera and coconut oil results in a very soothing balm. This blend will offer not only an anti-inflammatory help but also a soothing sensation when applied to the affected area. Aloe vera is effective in reducing pain, irritation, and itchiness. Mix freshly extracted aloe vera gel and coconut oil to prepare a balm. You can apply the balm up to three times a day on a thoroughly cleansed area.
Coconut oil and lemon juice
Don’t use the ready to drink lemon juice since it contains sugar. Natural lemon juice contains a powerful oxidant which is vitamin C. It is a necessary substance to produce collagen that helps in repairing the blood vessels damaged by hemorrhoids. The blend of coconut oil and lemon juice helps in alleviating pain and itching due to hemorrhoids. You can apply this blend to up to three times a day. Make sure to cleanse the area before application.
Coconut oil and garlic
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a plant with a high sulfur content which is potent in treating inflammatory issues and microbial infections. A combination of coconut oil and garlic makes a very good ointment that helps in regulating blood flow in the swollen skin and veins of the rectum. Combine a garlic paste made from fresh garlic and mix two tablespoons of coconut oil to create a paste, and the mixture is best applied when chilled. Always clean the area affected by hemorrhoids.
No to hemorrhoids!
You can prevent hemorrhoids through maintaining a healthy diet and consuming fiber-rich food. High-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to stay hydrated to aid in good bowel movement, taking lecithin supplements can help too. As much as possible avoid straining as it will create more pressure in the rectum during a bowel movement. Also do not try to hold your stool, since it may become harder over time and be harder to pass. If you are pregnant, it is also important to exercise and maintain a healthy diet to avoid hemorrhoids. Also, avoid long periods of sitting as it can increase pressure on the blood vessels down there. And, do not forget to incorporate good coconut oil into your diet and daily routine!