Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) to Treat Anal Fissure

What is anal fissure? Anal fissure is the tear or crack in the anal canal and anus. It is caused by the passage of unusually hard or large stool in the anal canal. It often happens when one suffers from constipation or repeated occurrence of diarrhea. Symptoms of anal fissure include irritation in the anus area, pain during and after bowel movement and rectal bleeding. It is usually the presence of blood in your stool or the stains in the toilet paper that grabs your attention, forcing you to seek medical advice. Immediately see your doctor for these complaints for the early diagnosis and treatment of anal fissure. Avoid making it worse.

Some home remedies are available for the treatment of anal fissure. And with the abundance of herbal plants and a long history of traditional medicine, it would not be surprising to ask whether it is beneficial to use Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) to treat anal fissure. What is it and what are the popular uses of the plant?

Devil’s claw owes its name to its hooked fruit. It is found in many parts of South Africa. Its large roots are the ones used for medicine to stimulate digestion, lower fever and reduce pain. A long list of uses are available for the treatment of the following medical concerns – atherosclerosis or the hardening of arteries, difficulties in childbirth, allergic reactions, bladder and kidney diseases, gout, muscle pain, arthritis, back pains, digestive problems, migraine and some allergic reactions. It can also be applied to the skin for treatment of injuries. The list still needs further scientific evidence but the history of the plant’s use is proof of potency. However, it is good to ask your doctor about the use of Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) to treat anal fissure. For back pain, the plant is said to have the same effect like those of (NSAIDS) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs available commercially.

If you’ve read materials about the plant, you might find that most common side effects of its use is diarrhea. Diarrhea being part of the cause of having anal fissure does not promote the prevention or treatment of anal fissure. Other possible side effects listed are nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, headaches, loss of appetite, ringing in the ears and in rare instances could cause loss of taste. It might also cause changes in blood pressure and induce allergic reactions. As for the case of improving digestion, care should be observed in using the plant because it is also said to increase stomach acid. Using the plant with prescription medications that reduce stomach acid such as proton pump inhibitors might lead to reduced effectiveness.

Lastly, do remember that anal fissure, may it be acute or chronic, is treatable. Just feel free to talk to your doctor about the symptoms and discuss with him possible or available treatments. And if you would like to go about the treatment the more natural way, do so. But only upon the advice of your doctor.