Can Toothpaste Soothe Painful Hemorrhoids? How to Safely Use Toothpaste for Relief

Can Toothpaste Help Soothe Painful Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids can cause immense discomfort. If you've tried over-the-counter creams and ointments without relief, you may be tempted to look for home remedies like toothpaste. But is using toothpaste on hemorrhoids safe and effective? Keep reading to learn whether this hack really works and how to use toothpaste to properly care for hemorrhoids.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are enlarged, swollen veins located in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. They are caused by increased pressure in the pelvic and rectal veins, often associated with constipation, diarrhea, pregnancy, obesity, or prolonged sitting.

There are two types of hemorrhoids:

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and are usually painless. You may notice bright red blood on stool, tissue, or in the toilet bowl.

External Hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus. They can be extremely painful, especially when sitting, causing soreness or burning sensations.

Common Hemorrhoid Treatments

There are many over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories available to treat painful hemorrhoids. These include:

Hydrocortisone

Reduces inflammation and swelling.

Lidocaine

Numbs the area to relieve pain.

Witch Hazel

Soothes itching and irritation.

Petroleum Jelly

Softens and lubricates dry, hard stools.

Aloe Vera

Calms inflammation and itching.

While these provide symptom relief, using toothpaste is sometimes suggested as a home remedy when over-the-counter options fail. But is this really effective?

Can Toothpaste Help Soothe Hemorrhoids?

Toothpaste may seem like an unconventional treatment, but some of its ingredients exhibit properties that can temporarily relieve hemorrhoid symptoms:

Menthol

The menthol in toothpaste causes a cooling sensation which can numb pain and itching when applied topically.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can scrub away irritants while also neutralizing acidity in urine or stool that irritates hemorrhoids.

Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Toothpastes containing anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera, eucalyptus oil, or plant extracts may reduce swelling.

Antiseptics

Ingredients like triclosan have antiseptic properties that relieve itching and cleanse bacteria from external hemorrhoids.

Using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on hemorrhoids can provide temporary relief from painful burning or itching. However, toothpaste is not a cure and should not replace medical treatment. Consult your doctor before trying this home remedy.

How to Use Toothpaste to Soothe Hemorrhoids

If you want to try toothpaste to relieve hemorrhoid discomfort, follow these steps:

Clean the Area

Gently cleanse the anus after a bowel movement with soft toilet paper or wipes. Rinsing with warm water can also help remove irritants.

Apply a Small Amount

Squeeze out a pea-sized dab of regular fluoride toothpaste onto your finger.

Gently Dab on Hemorrhoids

Carefully dab the toothpaste directly onto external hemorrhoids, taking care not to insert toothpaste inside the anus.

Allow it to Sit

Let the toothpaste remain on the hemorrhoids for a few minutes before removal.

Rinse Thoroughly

Clean off all toothpaste residue with warm water and pat dry. Never leave toothpaste on for extended periods.

Repeat as Needed

Reapply a small amount of toothpaste 2-3 times per day as needed for pain/itch relief.

The cooling ingredients can provide temporary numbness while the abrasives remove irritants associated with hemorrhoid discomfort. Always discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Types of Toothpaste to Use

Some kinds of toothpaste may be more effective than others for hemorrhoids. Here are the best types to try:

Menthol Toothpaste

Menthol-containing toothpastes like Colgate Total provide instant cooling relief for pain and itching.

Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpastes with baking soda gently scrub away irritants while neutralizing acidity.

Sensitive Toothpaste

Formulas for sensitive teeth often contain soothing aloe vera to calm inflammation.

Herbal Toothpaste

Toothpastes with eucalyptus, tea tree, or plant-based extracts have natural anti-inflammatory effects.

Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

Those avoiding fluoride can use brands like Tom's of Maine which often include soothing ingredients.

Avoid tartar control toothpastes which can be too abrasive. Standard toothpaste for cavity protection is best for hemorrhoids.

Toothpaste Ingredients That Soothe Hemorrhoids

These toothpaste components can provide hemorrhoid relief when applied topically:

Menthol

Provides a cooling sensation to numb pain.

Camphor

Also elicits a cooling effect for temporary pain relief.

Glycerin

Soothes irritation and softens dry, hard stool.

Sorbitol

Moisturizes and lubricates to ease bowel movements.

Baking Soda

Gently exfoliates and neutralizes acidity causing discomfort.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Reduces bacteria overgrowth and inflammation.

Aloe Vera

Calms inflammation, swelling, and irritation.

Tea Tree Oil

Has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chamomile

Soothes skin irritation and discomfort.

Toothpaste Brands That Can Help Hemorrhoids

Here are some top toothpaste products you may want to try for hemorrhoid relief:

Sensodyne Pronamel

Contains soothing aloe vera and a mild mint flavor.

Colgate Total

Includes menthol for instant pain relief.

Crest 3D White

Whitening formula has baking soda to gently exfoliate.

Tom's of Maine Simply White

Natural formula with hydrating glycerin and calming peppermint.

Jason Sea Fresh

Features anti-inflammatory sea algae, aloe vera and chamomile.

Always spot test on a small area first to

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.