Anal fissures are cuts on the layer of tissues in the anal area. While they are not necessarily harmful to the affected individuals, they can cause extreme discomfort in the form of itchiness and pain. Furthermore, because they are lacerations in the skin surrounding the area where body waste comes out, anal fissures are also prone become infected and inflamed. It is the infection that leads to other complications. Under normal circumstances, however, anal fissures normally heal by themselves in four to six weeks. In cases of infection or deeper cuts, the affected person medical intervention like drugs or surgery.
Drugs that can be taken internally or directly applied to the affected area are readily available in most drugstores. A doctor’s prescription, however, is required as some of these medications contain steroids. For affected people who prefer natural remedies over drugs, various herbs and oils are also available in health stores and aromatherapy shops. There has been evidence on the effectiveness of using pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) to treat anal fissure, or at least relieve the discomfort caused by anal fissure.
Pot marigold (Calendula officinalis), also known as calendula, is an herb with yellow flowers that bloom all year round. Its flowers have been used since the twelfth century as medicine, and modern science has proven some of these medicinal properties.
Pot marigold flowers contain compounds that have the ability to hasten wound healing and improve blood circulation. Thus, extracts and tinctures made from marigold flowers can be applied to wounds, cuts, bruises, and eczema. Other preparations of pot marigold include tea, essential oil, pure juice (obtained from leaves and stems), and lotion.
Using pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) to treat anal fissure
Due to its excellent antibacterial properties, using pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) to treat anal fissure is a good natural alternative to drugs. In 2012, two doctors studied the role of pot marigold in the treatment of anal fissures and concluded that the extract made from pot marigold flowers can potentially heal anal fissures. A few drops of the extract can be applied directly to the affected area for a several days. While more studies need to be conducted to validate this research, the wound-healing and antibacterial properties of pot marigold can surely help anal fissures to heal faster and prevent the wound from being infected by bacteria living in the anal area.
Dried pot marigold flowers (around ten grams) or a few drops of pot marigold oil can be added to the affected person’s bath water to help clean the immediate area surrounding the fissure. A good soak in this bath can hasten healing, prevent infection, and minimize pain and itching caused by the fissure.
Another pot marigold mixture that can help treat anal fissure is pot marigold lotion. This lotion is prepared from around twenty grams of fresh pot marigold flowers that are cooked with lard. The mixture is stirred, and the pot is left open for a day. After around twenty-four hours, the pot is again heated and the contents are filtered using a sieve. The contents are then stored in a jar until use. The lotion is applied directly to the affected area.
Possible adverse reactions
As with any other medication – natural or synthetic – pot marigold is not for everyone. It can cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin. It can also adversely react with other antibacterial supplements. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are discouraged from using pot marigold.
Before using pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) to treat anal fissure, it is always best to consult a physician to avoid allergies and to maximize the healing properties of the plant.
Please Share
