Wormwood or Artemisia absinthium is principally used to treat Crohn’s disease. It is also employed in the treatment of dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), esophageal reflux and parasites. Since anal fissures are caused by irregular bowel movement, particularly constipation, most doctors believe that addressing the root source of the problem will help alleviate the pains brought about by the symptoms.
The common wormwood is usually used as an ingredient in many alcoholic beverages as flavoring. However, the medicinal qualities of this plant have made it an exceptional ingredient in many treatments. Absinthium is foremost known to eradicate intestinal parasites and worms, thus earning the name wormwood. It is also used in addressing joint pains, appetite loss, insomnia, liver problems, epilepsy, menstrual problems and digestive discomfort.
The oil is extracted from leaves and the flowers of the wormwood and is used in medical treatments. Many doctors believe that wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) to treat anal fissure is effective because the plant addresses inflammatory conditions. Like a host of other essential oils, wormwood is known to have antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiseptic and antifungal properties. The inflamed skin around the anus and anal area will most likely subside causing the other symptoms such as irritation and itchiness to diminish. Wormwood is taken orally at 500 mg in a dose of three times a day or about three cups of tea in a day.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) to treat anal fissure is being questioned because some fear its toxicity. There have been reports of mental disorder caused by absinthium which include tremors, vertigo, seizures, sleepiness and hallucinations. A substance in the wormwood called thujone is toxic to the nerves when it is ingested in high doses. However, researchers argue that the symptoms are equivalent to those suffered by patients who have chronic overuse of alcohol. Still, wormwood should not be taken in long terms because of significant toxicity. Likewise, this should not be used by pregnant women, nursing mothers, people with kidney or liver problems and especially young children.
Since you may be doubtful of the use of wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) to treat anal fissure, it is best to use natural means to ease the soreness caused by the fissures. There are many available home remedies that can help you. One is to increase your liquid intake, particularly water. You can also take mineral oil preparations or stool softeners. It is best to avoid sharp food – food that cannot be digested well. These include popcorn, nuts, tortilla chips and spicy foods. Another effective home remedy is the sitz bath. After bowel movements, you should soak in a tub of warm water. The bath will help increase the blood flow in the anus area and relax the spasm. You will also be able to clean the anus without irritating the existing fissure through the use of tissue or toilet paper. It is better if you can use soft wipes. There are also other essential mineral oils that can be applied to the affected area to help ease the irritation and pain. It is advisable to ask your physician before you employ any medication for your condition.