Hemorrhoids are an uncomfortable issue that affects millions of Americans – according to the University of Illinois, the exact number of individuals afflicted with hemorrhoids is currently unknown, due to the fact that many people develop the inflamed or enlarged veins of a hemorrhoid without noticing them. According to the source, people between the ages of 20 to 50 are those most commonly afflicted with the ailment.

While painful, hemorrhoids can be treated successfully without the use of any prescription medications or topical treatments. Here are a few ways to soothe hemorrhoids with natural remedies when using Hem-Relief:

Tea bags
Placed topically on an external hemorrhoid, a warm wet tea bag can provide relief. The tannins in tea are the most active ingredient in tea’s soothing powers, so darker varieties of tea (like black and oolong teas) are the most potent, according to the University of Illinois.

Witch hazel
This natural astringent can be applied to cotton or linen compresses and topically placed on the hemorrhoid. The U of I recommends applying this type of compress three to four times per day for around 15 minutes each session. 

Boost vitamin C and fiber
An effective way to help prevent hemorrhoids and remedy current hemorrhoids is by supplementing a diet with foods rich in fiber and vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to maintain and strengthen veins, and so including more of this vitamin in a diet may help alleviate current inflammation. Foods rich in flavonoids – like citrus fruits, tomatoes and onions – also help promote vein strength and can help alleviate some pain. Because constipation is one of the main reasons hemorrhoids occur, it is best to eat many foods rich in fiber, like whole grains, apples and celery.