Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids: 7 Fast & Natural Relief Methods (2025 Guide)
Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids: 7 Fast & Natural Relief Methods (2025 Guide)
You don’t need a prescription to find relief. Many safe, effective home remedies can reduce swelling, ease pain, and speed up healing — often within 24–48 hours.
Here are the 7 best doctor-approved home treatments for hemorrhoids.
1. Sitz Baths (Warm Water Soaks)
How it works: Warm water increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, reduces swelling.
How to do it:
- Fill basin with 3–4 inches of warm (not hot) water
- Sit for 10–15 minutes, 2–3x/day
- Pat dry — don’t rub
✅ Pro tip: Add 1 tbsp Epsom salt or witch hazel for extra soothing.
📌 Note: Use a sitz bath kit or clean basin — avoid full bathtub (harder to clean, less targeted).
2. Cold Compress or Ice Pack
How it works: Cold reduces inflammation and numbs pain.
How to do it:
- Wrap ice pack in thin towel
- Apply to area for 10–15 minutes
- Repeat every 1–2 hours as needed
⚠️ Never apply ice directly to skin — risk of frostbite.
3. Witch Hazel Compress
How it works: Natural astringent — shrinks swollen tissue, reduces itching.
How to do it:
- Soak cotton pad in pure witch hazel (no alcohol)
- Apply to area for 5–10 minutes, 2–3x/day
✅ Look for: “100% Witch Hazel, Alcohol-Free”
4. Aloe Vera Gel
How it works: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, promotes healing.
How to do it:
- Use pure aloe vera gel (no dyes or alcohol)
- Apply thin layer to external hemorrhoids 2–3x/day
⚠️ Do NOT use on internal hemorrhoids — risk of irritation.
5. High-Fiber Diet + Hydration
How it works: Softens stool → less straining → less pressure on veins.
Top fiber foods:
- Chia seeds (10g fiber per oz)
- Lentils (15g per cup)
- Raspberries (8g per cup)
- Oats (4g per ½ cup dry)
Hydration: Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily.
6. Donut Cushion or Soft Seat
How it works: Reduces pressure on anal area when sitting.
Best for: Office workers, drivers, students.
✅ Look for memory foam or gel-filled cushions.
7. Proper Wiping Technique
How it works: Prevents irritation and micro-tears.
Do this:
- Use moist, unscented wipes (or wet toilet paper)
- Pat — don’t wipe
- Rinse with peri bottle if possible
❌ Avoid: Dry toilet paper, scented wipes, “flushable” wipes (can clog)
What NOT to Try
| ❌ Myth | ✅ Reality |
|---|---|
| “Rub garlic on it” | → Causes burns and irritation |
| “Apply toothpaste” | → Drying agents worsen itching |
| “Use vinegar” | → Acidic — can damage skin |
| “Pop it with a needle” | → Risk of infection, severe bleeding |
FAQs
How long do home remedies take to work?
Most people feel relief in 24–48 hours. Full healing may take 1–2 weeks.
Can I use multiple remedies at once?
Yes — sitz bath + ice + fiber is a powerful combo. Avoid mixing topical irritants (e.g., aloe + menthol).
Are home remedies safe during pregnancy?
Yes — sitz baths, ice, witch hazel, and fiber are all pregnancy-safe. Avoid aloe vera internally or on broken skin.
✅ Start tonight: Take a 10-minute sitz bath before bed — many report immediate relief.
Explore all options in our Complete Treatments Guide.
🩺 Reviewed by: Hemorrhoid Care Hub Medical Review Team
📅 Last reviewed: September 6, 2025