A natural treatment for hemorrhoids? We’ll take it!

Hemorrhoids are an unfortunate but common reality, especially during pregnancy and postpartum. 

Personally, I really, really suffered – especially in early pregnancy and postpartum. Mine weren’t permanent and I only get an occasional flare-up in the depths of winter now, but at the time it was beyond uncomfortable. So, I’ve got you!

Also known as ‘piles’, hemorrhoids can be painful, irritating, and downright uncomfortable – but there are natural solutions to help ease discomfort. Essential oils have gained popularity as a holistic way to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and provide relief. 

But which essential oils are the most effective for hemorrhoids, and how can you use them safely? Let’s break it down, with my go-to US brand WholeNest for all things healing – whether you’re postpartum, prepping for baby or just looking for a dreamy natural fix on your day-to-day bumps, bruises and first aid needs.

Whether you’re US, UK or based elsewhere, WholeNest Founder Lital’s guide to essential oils for hemorrhoids is just what the doctor rarely orders, but probably should.

Frankincense oil (my star ingredient!)

Frankincense oil is often considered the star ingredient for hemorrhoid relief due to its potent combination of anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and wound-healing properties. It helps reduce swelling and irritation, soothing the discomfort that comes with hemorrhoids. 

Frankincense also promotes faster skin repair and regeneration, which is essential for healing any damaged tissue in the affected area. Its antimicrobial properties help to prevent infections, making it a valuable oil for sensitive areas.

Find it in: Less Than A Day, our carefully formulated natural hemorrhoid relief. Or, go for Wonder Spray, our do-it-all spray designed to soothe, disinfect & refresh down there, up there, everywhere. 

Helichrysum oil

Helichrysum oil is widely known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be a game-changer when dealing with swollen and inflamed hemorrhoids. 

This essential oil not only helps reduce swelling but also promotes tissue repair, which can speed up the healing process. It has powerful analgesic properties that ease discomfort and irritation, while its antimicrobial nature helps prevent infection, particularly if there are small tears or fissures in the affected area. 

Find it in: Less Than A Day

Cypress oil (avoid during your first trimester)

Cypress oil is another excellent choice for hemorrhoid relief, especially when it comes to improving circulation. It has natural astringent properties, which help tighten blood vessels, reducing swelling and bleeding. 

This oil also works to promote healthy blood flow, minimizing the risk of worsening hemorrhoids. In addition, its anti-inflammatory effects help to soothe irritation and reduce discomfort.

Find it in: Less Than A Day

Safety note: Cypress oil is not safe for use during the first trimester of pregnancy. Check the guidelines below for when to bring it into your routine, later in pregnancy and postpartum.

Spearmint oil

Spearmint oil offers a refreshing, cooling effect that can provide immediate relief from burning and itching sensations, which are often associated with hemorrhoids. The oil has mild analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and discomfort. 

It also serves as an antimicrobial agent, preventing potential infections in the affected area, further promoting a faster recovery.

Find it in: Less Than A Day

Witch hazel

Witch hazel is a powerful, natural astringent that is well-known for its ability to tighten blood vessels and reduce swelling, making it one of the most effective remedies for hemorrhoids. 

It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe irritation and discomfort. Witch hazel provides a cooling effect that alleviates pain and itchiness, while its hemostatic properties help control minor bleeding from hemorrhoids, offering quick relief.

Find it in: Wonder Spray

How do essential oils help with hemorrhoids?

Essential oils can be a really helpful tool when self-treating hemorrhoids, due to their unique blend of therapeutic properties. Their anti-inflammatory nature helps reduce swelling and irritation, while their analgesic properties provide relief from pain and discomfort. 

Additionally, essential oils can promote faster healing of damaged tissue, thanks to their ability to support skin repair and regeneration. Many essential oils also possess antimicrobial properties, which help prevent infections in the sensitive areas affected by hemorrhoids.

By using essential oils, we often see a reduction in inflammation, relief from itching and burning, and the prevention of further complications like infection. These oils can also help you heal damaged tissue more quickly, speeding up the recovery process.

How to use essential oils for hemorrhoid relief

There are several ways I rotate and go for – here are the easiest and most effective:

Direct application (using safe dilution)

One simple way to use essential oils for hemorrhoid relief is through direct application, but it’s important to dilute them properly first, to avoid irritation. Essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin – always dilute them with a carrier oil, such as coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond oil, before use.

Once diluted, you can then apply a blend of essential oils to the affected area using a clean cotton pad or your fingers. Simply apply 2-3 drops of your oil blend to the affected area, repeating 2-3 times a day as needed. This method can provide instant relief, especially when using cooling oils like spearmint or witch hazel.

For a convenient option, you can also create your own “wonder spray” by mixing essential oils with a carrier fluid in a spray bottle. Spritz the blend onto the affected area 2-3 times a day for ongoing relief.

Cooling compress

A cooling compress is another great way to use essential oils. 

To make one, combine: 

• 2 tbsp of witch hazel
• 1 tbsp of coconut oil
• 2 drops each of frankincense, helichrysum, and cypress oil

Soak a clean cotton pad in the mixture, then apply it directly to the affected area. This method can be repeated 2-3 times daily for a soothing effect that targets both swelling and discomfort.

Or, go for a lovely blend like Less Than A Day, all made up for you and ready to use. 

Sitz bath blend

A sitz bath is a fantastic way to relax while treating hemorrhoids. 

Fill a sitz bath with warm water and add ½ cup of Epsom salt along with a few drops of your essential oil blend. You can use the same oils mentioned above – frankincense, helichrysum, and cypress – for maximum effectiveness. 

Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes to allow the oils to reduce swelling, ease discomfort, and promote healing.

DIY soothing spray (for on-the-go relief)

For an easy go-to fix, consider making your own soothing spray.

Mix your essential oil blend in a small spray bottle, shake well, and spritz onto the affected area as needed. For an extra cooling sensation, store the spray in the fridge. 

This one is super-convenient to have relief throughout the day, whether you’re at home or out and about.

Safety considerations for pregnancy & postpartum

While essential oils can be incredibly beneficial, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, especially during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Here are some key guidelines to follow:

General safety guidelines

• Always dilute: Essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin. Always dilute them with a carrier oil, such as coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond oil, before use.
  
• Avoid internal use: Never ingest essential oils unless you’ve been advised to do so by a qualified practitioner.
• Patch test first: Before applying essential oils to sensitive areas, test them on a small patch of skin (such as your inner forearm) to check for any adverse reactions.

Essential oils to use with caution

• Cypress oil: While it’s effective in reducing swelling and improving circulation, cypress oil should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is considered safe for use in later pregnancy or postpartum, but it’s best to consult your healthcare provider first.

Essential oils to avoid while pregnant or breastfeeding

Some essential oils should be avoided throughout pregnancy due to their potential effects on contractions and blood pressure. These include:

• Clary sage: This oil may stimulate contractions, so it’s only safe to use during labor or when preparing for delivery.
  
• Peppermint: While it’s refreshing and soothing, peppermint can reduce milk supply if used while breastfeeding.
• Rosemary: This oil may increase blood pressure and cause uterine contractions, making it unsuitable during pregnancy.

How long do essential oils take to work?

This really varies, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids and your individual response to treatment. Hang in there, mama! Here’s a rough healing timeline:

Immediate relief (within minutes to hours)

Many people experience instant relief from itching, burning, and discomfort within minutes of using essential oils. 

Witch hazel, spearmint, and frankincense provide cooling and soothing effects, helping to calm irritation right away. Using a cold compress or taking a sitz bath can also reduce swelling within 15-30 minutes.

Short-term improvement (1-3 days)

With consistent use, you’ll likely see short-term improvements in 1-3 days. The inflammation will begin to decrease, and any irritation and itching will subside. By applying essential oils 2-3 times a day, you can noticeably soothe discomfort and begin to shrink hemorrhoids.

Long-term healing (1-2 weeks)

Over the course of 1-2 weeks, consistent use of anti-inflammatory oils like helichrysum, frankincense, and cypress (avoid cypress during your first trimester, however) can lead to significant improvements. Hemorrhoids may shrink, and damaged tissue will heal, reducing the risk of recurrence.

Severe cases (2+ weeks or more)

For larger or more severe hemorrhoids, it may take several weeks to see full recovery. However, combining essential oil treatment with lifestyle changes, such as staying hydrated, increasing fiber intake – get TRB founder Eloise’s brilliant postpartum fiber-dense smoothie recipe on your rotation – and avoiding prolonged sitting, can help speed up the healing process.

Looking for more natural postpartum healing tips? Read my guide on Essential oils for postpartum healing and unpack our full tips and go-tos reading list at WholeNest. Pop our guide to Managing pregnancy and postpartum hemorrhoids on your radar for starters. 

Hemorrhoids don’t have to be a long-term struggle – essential oils offer a natural, soothing solution to help you heal and get back to feeling your best!