Behzadi F, Roosta Y. The Role of Plant-Based Antioxidants in the Prevention and Mitigation of Hemorrhoid Complications: A Comprehensive Review in Traditional Iranian Medicine. pbp 2025; 7 (1)
URL:
http://pbp.medilam.ac.ir/article-1-251-en.html
Abstract: (150 Views)
Objective: Hemorrhoids, simply put, are caused by the inflammation and stretching of capillaries and blood vessels around the rectal area. There are numerous capillaries and blood vessels with high blood pressure surrounding the rectum, which can flex considerably during bowel movements to facilitate the process. Herbal treatments for hemorrhoids and the resulting fissures can be achieved using oils, topical application of herbal poultices, and herbal distillates. Prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids through herbal methods begin with a fiber-rich diet. A high-fiber diet can reduce bleeding and pain associated with the condition. This review aims to identify and report medicinal plants used in Iran for the treatment of hemorrhoids.
Methods: In this review, key terms such as medicinal plants, hemorrhoids, traditional medicine, and ethnobotany were used to search relevant articles. Databases like Google Scholar, SID, Magiran, PubMed, and Scopus were employed for the search. Relevant ethnobotanical studies were also included in the literature review.
Results: Medicinal plants including olive, coconut, aloe vera, apple, turmeric, chamomile, cranberry, hazel, lemon, almond, ginger, psyllium, flixweed, and yarrow are used to treat hemorrhoids.
Conclusion: The results of this review indicate that medicinal plants with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing properties play an important role in the prevention and mitigation of hemorrhoid complications. Due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, these plants help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing of damaged tissues. Additionally, a fiber-rich diet aids in improving bowel movements and reducing pressure on the rectal area, making it a key factor in the prevention of hemorrhoids.
Received: 2024/09/16 | Accepted: 2025/02/28 | Published: 2025/02/28