At times, pain in bowel movements are associated with the tear in the thin, moist tissue known as anal fissure. This tissue (mucosa) lines the anus, but due to hard bowels, it can have small tear that causes pain and bleeding. Anal fissure heals after four to six weeks. However, this healing is not the same for everybody. Some find it difficult to recover from anal fissure and might need to undergo surgery.
With different researches in finding natural healing alternatives, the use of tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) to treat anal fissure is becoming popular.
What is tea tree oil?
In history, tea tree oil served as an important treatment for wound infections. Its antiseptic features are still helpful these days, however, the use of this oil is lessen because of the wide use of antibiotics that are easily accessible.
Tea tree oil’s properties make it an effective means to kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is closely similar to the benefits of other essential oils, betadine, and hydrogen peroxide. However, it should not be compared to an antibiotic because it is not absorbed in the body. Antibiotics work internally but this oil is an antiseptic that works on the surface of the body.
Tea tree oil and Anal Fissure
Aside from tea tree oil’s antiseptic properties, it also has natural cicatrizant features, which means that it may help in tissue development. With this, it can aid in the healing of the small tear in the anus due to anal fissure. It also improves blood flow and relaxes the muscle tissues in that area. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) to treat anal fissure is effective because of the anti-bacterial properties that helps in preventing infection. As a natural cleaner, it keeps the tear from further damage due to unwanted bacteria.
Application and Uses
Tea tree oil is not applied directly to the wound. Even though it is a natural element in providing comfort and lessening the pain, it is usually diluted so that it won’t have an extreme sting. The application can cause some pain at first, however, it will gradually lessen in the process. There are also available products that uses tea tree oil. These products combine different natural ingredients to provide faster recovery from anal fissure.
Alternative Remedies
The use of tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) to treat anal fissure should also be accompanied with certain lifestyle changes. These steps can also support in relieving pain and improving the healing of anal fissure faster. It is better to use tea tree oil with an addition of changing the diet.
Individuals who have anal fissure would be advised to add fiber to their diet because this can lead to softer stools and help in tissue healing. Also drinking plenty of fluids is suggested to prevent constipation. Lastly, keeping a regular exercise to maintain regular bowel movements.
These steps can increase the time for healing. The application of the oil can add comfort, but it is not the only means to recover faster.