An anal fissure is a painful condition caused by a cut in the delicate tissues of the anal canal. It is characterized by bleeding and itching in addition to the pain. It affects people of all ages, but is most commonly observed in infants and the elderly, because these age groups have sensitive digestive and excretory systems. Although a fissure heals naturally in a month or so, the probability of infection and inflammation is high due to its location. If infection or inflammation occurs before the fissure heals, complications set in, and the doctor might recommend minor surgery to fully heal the fissure.
Anal fissure is caused mainly by constipation, which in turn is linked to the lifestyle of the person. Thus, people who consume adequate amounts of fiber and water are less prone to suffer from anal fissure compared to those who consume mostly refined grains.
Other than surgery, anal fissure can also be treated by drugs like steroid and antibacterial creams. These need a doctor’s prescription, and can be readily bought in drugstores everywhere. There are also natural treatments that do not use drugs or potentially harmful chemicals. Teas, capsules, and extracts of several plants can be used to treat anal fissure. These plants usually have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. One of these is Roman chamomile.
Roman chamomile
Roman chamomile (Chamamemelum nobile) is a perennial plant that is found in North America and Europe, and is one of the main sources of chamomile. It is mostly used to make teas and cosmetics.
The use of Roman chamomile (Chamamemelum nobile) to treat anal fissure is quite common. Together with witch hazel infusion, it is directly applied to the affected area to keep it free from harmful germs and also to shrink the surrounding blood vessels (preventing bleeding). Doing so will keep the cut clean and hasten the healing process.
Using the essential oil of Roman chamomile (Chamamemelum nobile) to treat anal fissure is also effective. The oil is mixed with a carrier oil (e.g., olive oil) and is gently massaged on the affected area several times a day. It soothes the area and promotes faster healing.
A suppository kit made of essential oils –including Roman chamomile – is available in health stores and is very effective in soothing the affected area, minimizing bleeding, preventing inflammation and infection, and healing the fissure.
Tea made of Roman chamomile can also be drunk to calm the stomach and soothe inflammation in the digestive system.
Various preparations of Roman chamomile, especially tea and essential oil, are readily available in health stores at very affordable prices.
Side effects of Roman chamomile
It is not advisable for Roman chamomile (in any form) to be ingested by pregnant women as it causes miscarriage and premature uterine contractions. Also, some medications may react with Roman chamomile and may bring more harm than good to the user.
As with any other supplement, it is always best for the affected person to consult with his or her physician before using Roman chamomile. The doctor is the best person to determine possible side effects and adverse reactions of the herb with the patient’s existing medications.
Please Share
