Hemorrhoids
Health Benefits

Cornstarch for Hemorrhoids: Natural Relief and Benefits

| Modified on Nov 17, 2024
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Cornstarch offers several benefits that can help manage hemorrhoid symptoms:

  1. Soothes Irritation: Cornstarch is known for its soothing properties, which can help alleviate itching and irritation caused by hemorrhoids. It acts as a protective barrier, reducing friction and discomfort.
  2. Absorbs Moisture: Excess moisture can exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms and lead to increased irritation and itching. Cornstarch helps absorb excess moisture, keeping the area dry and comfortable.
  3. Reduces Friction: Applying cornstarch can reduce friction in the anal area, which is particularly helpful in preventing further irritation during movement or when sitting.

How to Use Cornstarch for Hemorrhoids

To use cornstarch for hemorrhoid relief, follow these steps:

  • Clean the Area: Gently clean the affected area with warm water and a mild soap. Pat dry with a soft towel.
  • Apply Cornstarch: Sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch onto the hemorrhoids or affected area. You can use a clean cotton ball, powder puff, or your fingers. Be sure to apply only a light layer, as too much can cause clumping and discomfort.
  • Reapply as Needed: Cornstarch can be reapplied throughout the day as needed, especially after bowel movements or bathing. Always ensure the area is dry before applying more cornstarch.

Precautions and Considerations

While cornstarch is generally safe, there are some precautions to consider:

  • Allergies: Although rare, some individuals may have allergies to cornstarch. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as redness, swelling, or itching, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare provider.
  • Keep the Area Dry: To maximize the benefits of cornstarch, ensure the area is dry before application. Excess moisture can reduce the effectiveness of cornstarch and may lead to clumping.
  • Consult a Healthcare Provider: If symptoms persist or worsen, consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Cornstarch is a symptom relief aid and may not address the underlying causes of hemorrhoids.

Conclusion

Cornstarch is a simple and effective natural remedy for managing hemorrhoid symptoms. Its ability to soothe irritation, absorb moisture, and reduce friction makes it a valuable addition to hemorrhoid care routines. However, it is essential to use cornstarch correctly and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms continue or worsen.

Have you used cornstarch for hemorrhoid relief? Share your experiences and read feedback from others below who have tried this natural remedy!

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The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

4 User Reviews


Posted by Robert (Wilmington, Delaware) on 12/03/2009
★★★★★

Home remedy hemorroid cream - corn starch; cuts out the burning and itchiness, use about 1 teaspoon

Replied by Life's Surprises
(Toronto, On, Ca)
03/02/2012
★★★★☆

Sigh - growing older had its perks for a little while [driving, moving out, and so on] until a couple years later, when all those things nobody tells you about suddenly decide to throw you a surprise party all at once. One of the attendees: hems. Now, I'm only 23, fairly active, fairly fit, quite healthy in terms of my diet, but one random day the magic H word sprouted up like an unwanted guest that never knew when to leave.

I have absolutely no idea what I did the first time - after struggling for two weeks trying to figure out what it was, expensive prescription suppositories that took a few days but did, kind of sort of a little bit, seem to make it better. Then it went away.

This time, again a random occurrence, [conveniently coinciding with another monthly visitor .. Yippee?] nothing seemed to work. Not the suppositories. Not ACV, in or externally [though it provided temporary pain relief when applied topically, the first time only]. Hmmm, wait, hadn't I dusted my bottom with a talc-free powder last time? That seemed to help a lot. Okay, tried that again... Not so much. And this time was SO much more painful than the first. I was hobbling around the house! But before giving up, I decided to spoon some cornstarch into some TP, pack it on and leave it there. Ta da... Magic remedy. Okay, granted it doesn't fix the problem. But after a day, it was MUCH smaller. After three days, almost gone. And then back and forth, back and forth, didn't really want to disappear entirely.... but regardless, cornstarch HAS been at least an immediate relief in terms of comfort and being able to go about my day without wincing at every step and muscle contraction, and by wicking away the extra moisture, seems to do a LOT to keep the inflammation down.

Definitely, definitely try this first, and add alllll the other wonderful remedies into your regime too. Needless to say, I am sufficiently EVEN MORE terrified of pregnancy/childbirth [since this x393840 is now inevitable], and uncomfortable with the effect on my love life. I mean... Come on, seriously Mother Nature?

PS, here in Canada, I couldn't find Rutin, so I didn't get a chance to try that out :( any advice on where to find it?

Replied by Life's Surprises
(Toronto, On, Ca)
03/23/2012
★★★★★

As an update to my previous post: cornstarch DOES seem to be my 'cure' to the dreaded H-word. Any time I've felt it coming on, patting some cornstarch on seems to shrink it within a few hours, and keeping it up gets rid of it entirely in, at most, a few days. It recurred easily for a week or so, then went away and hasn't come back since. I've been patting some cornstarch on preventatively once every day or other day [to keep friction, heat, and moisture down, which seem to be aggravators], and it seems to be working like a charm. Huh.


Corn Starch
Posted by Lynne (Dayton, Oh) on 08/19/2009
★★★★★

I have tried every over the counter medication for hemorrhoids. Needless to say none work, some even made them worse. The best thing I have found is to gently spray your behind with a squirt hygiene bottle, dry the area gently but thoroughly, then apply corn starch all around the hemorrhoid. Sometimes I roll a few cotton balls in the corn starch and press right up against the hemorrhoid. I will wear this all day or night. It has never failed to bring me comfort. I hope it works for yo