Haemorrhoid
Hemorrhoids are swollen rectal veins; Ayurveda links them to Vata-Pitta imbalance causing pain or bleeding.
About Haemorrhoid
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and enlarged veins located in the rectum and anus. In Ayurveda, hemorrhoids, also known as Arshas, are believed to be caused by imbalances in the doshas, particularly Vata (air) and Pitta (fire).
There are two main types of hemorrhoids-
- Internal hemorrhoids- These develop inside the rectum and are usually painless. However, they can bleed during bowel movements.
- External hemorrhoids- These develop under the skin around the anus and can be painful, itchy, and swollen.
Common Causes
Hemorrhoids occur due to increased pressure in the veins around the anus and rectum. This pressure can be caused by several factors:
- Dryness and Straining: When Vata is imbalanced, your gut gets dry, making bowel movements difficult. Straining to pass stool can cause hemorrhoids.
- Spicy and Oily Foods: These can irritate your gut (Pitta imbalance) and lead to inflammation in the veins around your rectum, causing hemorrhoids.
- Poor Digestion: If you don't digest food properly (Agni imbalance), waste builds up in your colon, irritating your rectum and potentially causing hemorrhoids.
- Sitting for long periods- Sitting for long periods on the toilet or otherwise can increase pressure in the veins around the rectum.
- Pregnancy- The growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the abdomen and pelvis, which can contribute to hemorrhoids.
- Being overweight or obese- Excess weight puts extra strain on the veins throughout the body, including those in the rectum.
- Lifting heavy objects- Regularly lifting heavy objects can increase pressure in the abdomen and contribute to hemorrhoids.
- Low-fiber diet- A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation and straining during bowel movements, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management-
Dietary -
- Eat fruits, veggies, and whole grains to make stool softer and easier to pass.
- Drink enough water to keep stools soft and prevent constipation.
- Avoid eating Spicy, oily, and acidic foods that can irritate and worsen symptoms.
Lifestyle -
- Physical activity helps with bowel movements and reduces pressure on veins.
- Don't force bowel movements; try again later if needed.
Herbs -
- Triphala, Haritaki, and Yavani can ease constipation and bloating. Always consult for proper dosage and to avoid interactions with medications.
Therapies-
- Basti (Enemas): Medicated enemas with herbal or oil infusions can soften stool and aid bowel movements. Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before trying.
- Virechana (Purgation): This therapy cleanses the digestive system but should be done cautiously under professional guidance.
- Hydrotherapy: May include gentle colon cleansing but consult a qualified practitioner for advice. Its effectiveness for hemorrhoids is debated.
Home remedies-
- Warm Sitz Baths: Soaking in a tub filled with a few inches of warm water for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day, can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
- Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress wrapped in a thin cloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Common Symptoms
- Painful bowel movements
- Bleeding during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Swelling around the anus
- A feeling of fullness in the rectum
Recommended Treatments
Panchakarma
Classical Ayurvedic cleansing and restoration physician‑supervised, personalised, and gentle. Panchakarma at Atmabodh is a carefully sequenced program that helps release accumulated ama (metabolic waste), calm aggravated doshas, and reset digestion (agni). Every plan is doctor‑led, adapted to your constitution and current state, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when required. Panchakarma supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Suitability is confirmed only after clinical assessment. Who is it for? Digestive & metabolic balance: heaviness, bloating, irregular appetite, sluggishness. Musculoskeletal comfort: stiffness, recurrent aches, postural tension. Skin & scalp support: dryness/roughness, oil imbalance, seasonal flares (as advised). Stress, sleep & mind: restlessness, fatigue, shallow sleep, overdrive. Respiratory ease: seasonal congestion, head–neck load; post‑illness convalescence (only with clearance). Women’s health routines: peri‑menopause transitions, cycle comfort (timed away from menstruation). Eligibility is case‑specific; some conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What are the “Five Actions”? Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – selected kapha presentations. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enema) – anuvāsana (oil), niruha/kashāya (decoction), matra (micro‑dose). Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head–neck pathways, preceded by local prep. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; specialist‑only, strict protocols. Not everyone receives all five; your physician selects the minimum effective pathway. How it works – the three phases Pūrva‑karma (Preparation) Snehana (Oleation): internal ghee/oil titration (if indicated) + external abhyanga. Swedana (Fomentation): steam/heat to soften tissues and mobilise doshas. Diet prep: light, warm, easy‑to‑digest meals; reduction of stimulants. Pradhāna‑karma (Main procedure) The chosen action (e.g., virechana, basti) performed on the medically optimal day. Close monitoring of vitals, comfort, and response. Paśchāt‑karma (Recovery & Rasāyana) Samsarjana‑krama: stepwise diet progression from thin gruels to normal meals. Gentle routine, rest, and targeted rejuvenation. Pre‑program preparation (what we do together) Clinical history, vitals, and relevant labs (as advised). Explain what to expect, precautions, and consent. Set a realistic schedule (typically 10–21+ days depending on goals and responses). Plan for lighter work/social load during intensive days. A typical day during Panchakarma (illustrative) Quiet morning start → vitals & doctor check‑in. Abhyanga (warm oil application) → Swedana (steam) as pre‑procedure. Main procedure on indicated days (e.g., virechana or basti); otherwise supportive care. Simple, warm meals at set times; hydration guidance. Rest, gentle walks, breath‑led relaxation; screen and stimulation kept low. Diet & recovery – Samsarjana‑Krama(post‑procedure) Stage 1: thin rice gruel (peya/kanji). Stage 2: thicker gruel (vilepi). Stage 3: soft rice + light lentils/vegetables (yavāgu/khichri‑style). Stage 4: gradual return to regular, warm, fresh meals. Spices, oils, and portions are adjusted case‑by‑case. No fasting or extremes unless prescribed. Safety, eligibility & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy, active infection/fever, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, severe anemia, active ulcers, recent surgery, frailty, acute psychiatric crises. Medications are not stopped or altered without your treating doctor’s advice. Informed consent; hygienic protocols; vitals monitoring when indicated. We coordinate with your physician upon request. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion, clearer appetite cues, reduced abdominal discomfort. Ease and suppleness in joints and soft tissue. Calmer mind, steadier energy, improved sleep quality. Skin comfort and scalp balance. A renewed baseline for sustainable lifestyle change. Timelines vary. Many guests observe a shift within 2–4 weeks with adherence to guidance. Related Therapies Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga (whole‑body oiling) Snehapāna (measured internal oleation, if indicated) Swedana (steam/sudation) Head–neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara Shiroabhyanga (head–neck oiling) Nasya (also one of the five, used in specific plans) Localized applications Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti (warm oil pooling) Pichu (oil‑soaked pad) Kizhi (Potli) (herbal bolus compress) Udvartana (herbal powder rub) Lepam (herbal paste packs) Recovery & rejuvenation Rasāyana guidance (diet, routine, sleep hygiene, gentle movement) Breath‑led relaxation / Yoga Nidra
View Treatment →
Naturopathy
Drug‑sparing, lifestyle‑centered care that helps your body’s innate healing—gentle, practical, and doctor‑supervised. Naturopathy at Atmabodh focuses on restoring balance through non‑invasive methods: therapeutic diet, water and heat applications, mud therapy, movement, rest, and routine. Plans are personalised to your constitution, goals, and current health status, and coordinated with your medical care when required. Naturopathy supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illnesses. Why choose Naturopathy at Atmabodh? Doctor‑informed, therapist‑delivered protocols with clear goals and safety checks. Personalised sequencing of diet, hydrotherapy, mud, rest, and gentle activity. Integrative options with Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Acupuncture as needed. Measured & gentle—we prioritise comfort, pacing, and sustainable habits. Clear take‑home guidance so your results continue beyond the center. Who can benefit? Digestive balance: bloating, sluggish bowels, acidity tendency (non‑acute). Metabolic support: sustainable weight management habits and energy stability. Stress & sleep: overdrive, poor sleep quality, fatigue. Skin comfort: dryness/irritation support with routine, hydration, and diet simplicity. Musculoskeletal ease: stiffness, posture‑related aches (alongside physio/yoga as indicated). Cardio‑metabolic lifestyle care: BP/sugar rhythm support (doctor‑coordinated). Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause routines (timing‑aware). Suitability is individual; certain conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion/sleep/stress, appetite/bowels, work routine, medical history and labs. Assessment: hydration, temperature tolerance, skin and tissue feel, posture/movement basics. Plan design: diet framework, hydro/mud applications, rest schedule, gentle movement, breathwork. Education: why each element matters, pacing, and what to expect. Follow‑ups: refine frequency/intensity based on response. Therapies you may receive Hydrotherapy (water & temperature applications) Sitz bath (cool/warm/contrast) for pelvic/abdominal circulation. Spinal bath / spinal spray to soothe back and nervous system. Foot/arm baths for local circulation and calming. Jet/whirlpool (as available) for myofascial relaxation. Fomentation (hot packs/steam) and contrast applications for tissue ease. Packs & compresses Abdominal/chest/throat packs (warm or cool) for comfort and rhythm. Wet sheet/partial wraps for systemic calming (used selectively). Mud therapy Local mud packs (abdomen/eyes/joints) to cool, soothe, and draw heat. Full/partial mud application (as indicated) followed by gentle wash. Dietary & routine care Sattvik diet templates, hydration rhythms, meal timing, mindful eating. Rest & sleep hygiene, sunlight exposure (heliotherapy as suited). Movement & mind‑body Yoga Therapy (gentle mobility, breathwork), walking, relaxation practices. All therapies are customised to comfort, season, and safety. Not every modality suits every person. Daily flow (typical) Morning check‑in → vitals & plan review. Light movement/breath‑led warm‑up. Scheduled hydro/mud applications. Simple, warm meals at fixed times. Afternoon rest; short walk; relaxation. Early, light dinner; evening wind‑down. Diet & lifestyle pillars Regular meals: warm, fresh, minimally processed foods. Hydration: warm water/herbal infusions; avoid extremes. Gentle movement daily; avoid overexertion during intensive days. Screen & stimulant limits in the evening. Sunlight & fresh air exposure as suited. Safety & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy (certain applications), uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections/fever, severe anemia, recent surgery, active ulcers, frailty, significant cardiac/renal/hepatic disease. Temperature extremes and long fasting are not used without medical clearance. Medications are not changed by therapists; coordinate with your doctor. Hygiene, consent, and comfort checks are standard; vitals monitored when indicated. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion and steadier appetite cues. Improved sleep onset and morning freshness. Reduced soft‑tissue tension and easier movement. Calmer mood and better stress tolerance. A practical routine you can continue at home. Timelines vary. Many guests observe change within 3–7 days when plans are followed.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes bleeding.
Q: How does Ayurveda treat hemorrhoids?
Ayurveda uses herbal remedies, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and therapies like Kshar Sutra to reduce swelling, improve digestion, and prevent recurrence.
Q: Can Ayurvedic treatment cure hemorrhoids permanently?
With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, Ayurveda can help manage and prevent hemorrhoids effectively, reducing the risk of recurrence.
Q: Which herbs are useful for hemorrhoids in Ayurveda?
Triphala, Haritaki, Arshoghni Vati, and Neem are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
Q: Is Ayurvedic treatment safe for all types of hemorrhoids?
Yes, Ayurvedic therapies are generally safe when prescribed by an experienced practitioner, but treatment plans vary depending on the severity and type.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
Mild cases may improve in a few weeks, while chronic hemorrhoids may require a few months of consistent treatment and lifestyle changes.