What Teas Are Good for Hemorrhoids: A Guide to Soothing Relief

October 27, 2025 •

4 min read

While hemorrhoids affect a significant portion of the adult population, many seek at-home remedies for relief. Among these, herbal teas have emerged as a comforting option, offering anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits that can help address the symptoms and underlying causes. This guide explores what teas are good for hemorrhoids and how they can be used effectively.

Quick Summary

This guide covers several herbal teas that provide relief for hemorrhoid symptoms. Discover options that target inflammation, soothe irritation, and promote regular bowel movements for improved digestive health. Learn how to incorporate these teas both internally and topically.

Key Points

Chamomile for Inflammation: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile tea can soothe internal irritation and be used topically in a sitz bath or compress for external relief.
Black Tea for Astringency: Black tea compresses leverage tannins to help shrink and reduce swelling of external hemorrhoids.
Psyllium for Soft Stools: Psyllium husk tea, rich in soluble fiber, softens stools and promotes regular bowel movements to prevent straining and irritation.
Dandelion for Digestion: Dandelion root tea supports overall digestive health with prebiotic compounds and helps stimulate bowel function.
Hydration is Key: Drinking tea contributes to your overall fluid intake, which is crucial for keeping stools soft and preventing constipation, a primary cause of hemorrhoids.
Caffeine Caution: While many herbal teas are beneficial, be mindful of caffeinated varieties like green or black tea, as excessive intake can cause dehydration and worsen symptoms.
Topical vs. Internal: Some teas like chamomile and witch hazel can be used both as a beverage for internal benefits and as a compress or sitz bath for topical relief.

Understanding the Link Between Tea and Hemorrhoids

Proper hydration is a cornerstone of managing hemorrhoids, as it helps prevent the constipation and straining that are primary culprits for exacerbating the condition. Drinking tea contributes to daily fluid intake and offers additional benefits, depending on the herbs used. Many herbs possess anti-inflammatory, astringent, or laxative properties that can directly address hemorrhoid symptoms. However, it is crucial to differentiate between hydrating herbal teas and caffeinated varieties. While a moderate amount of caffeine may stimulate bowel movements, excessive intake can lead to dehydration and potentially worsen constipation. This guide focuses on herbal, non-caffeinated options for their supportive roles in digestive health and soothing inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory and Astringent Teas for Relief

Inflammation is a key source of pain and discomfort from hemorrhoids. Certain teas can help reduce swelling and calm irritated tissues.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is widely known for its calming effects and potent anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to compounds like azulene and bisabolol. When consumed as a tea, it can help reduce internal inflammation. Furthermore, a cooled chamomile infusion can be used in a sitz bath or as a compress to provide external relief from swelling, pain, and itching.

Turmeric Tea

This vibrant spice contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. A warm turmeric tea can help reduce systemic inflammation. Some sources even suggest that curcumin promotes tissue healing, which is beneficial for damaged hemorrhoidal tissue.

Yarrow Tea

Yarrow contains flavonoids, tannins, and salicylates that provide anti-inflammatory and astringent benefits. Astringents help to constrict blood vessels, which can reduce bleeding and shrink hemorrhoids. A simple yarrow tea can be made by steeping dried yarrow flowers or leaves in hot water. It can be consumed internally or used topically via a compress.

Black Tea (Compress)

For external hemorrhoids, a cool or warm black tea compress can provide significant relief. The tannins in black tea have a strong astringent effect that helps shrink the swollen hemorrhoidal tissue and reduce inflammation. To use, simply steep a black tea bag in warm water, wring out the excess liquid, and apply the warm, moist bag to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes.

Teas to Support Digestion and Prevent Constipation

Chronic constipation and the resulting straining are major contributors to hemorrhoid flare-ups. Teas that aid digestion and promote softer stools are excellent preventative measures.

Peppermint Tea: The menthol in peppermint tea helps relax the muscles of the digestive tract, which can soothe the stomach and promote smoother bowel movements.
Ginger Tea: Known for stimulating digestion, ginger tea can act as a mild laxative, helping to relieve constipation and reduce pressure on the lower intestines.
Dandelion Root Tea: A natural diuretic and mild laxative, dandelion root tea contains prebiotic properties that can support a healthy gut microbiome and stimulate bowel function.
Marshmallow Root Tea: This herb contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that can coat and soothe the digestive tract. It helps soften stools and protect irritated tissues.
Psyllium Husk Tea: Though technically a fiber supplement, psyllium husk can be mixed into water to form a gel-like substance that adds bulk to stool, making it easier to pass. It is important to increase fluid intake when consuming psyllium.

Comparison: Teas for Hemorrhoid Relief


Tea Type	Primary Benefit	Application Method	Best For	Considerations
Chamomile	Anti-inflammatory, soothing	Drink internally, sitz bath, or compress	Pain and swelling	Use with caution during pregnancy
Turmeric	Anti-inflammatory, healing	Drink internally	Internal inflammation	Ensure adequate water intake
Black Tea	Astringent, constricting	External compress	External hemorrhoids, bleeding	Topical use only for this effect
Peppermint	Digestive muscle relaxation	Drink internally	Bloating, digestive discomfort	Some may find it too stimulating
Dandelion Root	Mild laxative, digestive aid	Drink internally	Constipation	Prebiotic, may cause gas initially

Safely Incorporating Teas

Before adding any new tea or herbal remedy to your routine, it's wise to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are pregnant. For internal use, ensure proper steeping times and follow dosage instructions. For external application, always let the tea or compress cool to a comfortable temperature to avoid burns.

For additional guidance on dietary modifications, including fiber and fluid intake, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases offers comprehensive information. Combining a tea regimen with a high-fiber diet, adequate water intake, and regular exercise provides a holistic approach to managing and preventing hemorrhoids.

Conclusion

Incorporating certain teas into your daily routine can be a gentle yet effective way to manage and prevent hemorrhoid symptoms. Whether you're seeking anti-inflammatory relief from chamomile and turmeric or digestive support from peppermint and dandelion, there are numerous herbal options to explore. By staying hydrated and using teas both internally and externally where appropriate, you can find soothing relief and contribute to your overall digestive wellness. Always prioritize your health by consulting a medical professional to ensure these remedies are right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Excessive caffeine can cause dehydration, which may worsen constipation and aggravate hemorrhoid symptoms. It is best to opt for decaf or herbal teas.

To make a black tea compress, steep a tea bag in warm water for a few minutes. Squeeze out the excess liquid, and apply the warm, moist bag to the affected area for 10-15 minutes, up to three times daily.

Yes, chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties and can be used in a cool compress or sitz bath to help reduce swelling and itching.

Ginger tea has a mild laxative effect and aids digestion, which can alleviate the constipation often associated with hemorrhoids. It reduces pressure on the intestines, which can lead to reduced pain.

While generally safe, psyllium is a fiber supplement that should be taken with plenty of water. Consult a healthcare professional before long-term use, especially if on other medication.

Staying well-hydrated by drinking enough fluids, including tea, can help soften stools and prevent constipation, a key factor in hemorrhoid prevention.

Avoid stimulant laxative teas, like Senna, for long-term use, as they can cause dependency. Always be aware of potential interactions or sensitivities with any new herbal product.

Herbal teas can help by providing anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling, astringent properties to shrink tissues, and promoting better digestion to prevent constipation and straining.