A hernia is defined as a bulging organ or fatty tissue through a soft or weak spot in the body. There are several different types and some are more common than others. A hernia can be an extremely painful and possibly even deadly condition. While medical attention is strongly advised, there are several natural remedies that may help relieve hernia complications. These remedies may include the use of ice packs, ginger root, massage, licorice, aloe vera, black pepper powder, and castor seed oil, as well as lifestyle changes like weight loss, diet changes, and exercises.
According to MedlinePlus, a hernia may breach through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or tissue wall. It can look like a lump or swelling under the surface of the skin. This condition is commonly seen in the abdomen, but can also happen in the upper thigh, belly button, and groin areas. While medical attention is strongly suggested whenever a hernia is suspected, several home remedies have gained popularity for providing some relief treating a hernia, as well as certain lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of developing a hernia. [1]
Natural Ways To Relieve Hernia Pain
Home remedies for a hernia are as follows:
Castor Seed Oil
Throughout history, castor seed oil has been used for a wide variety of stomach health concerns, as it can coat the stomach in a thin lining, thus possibly preventing inflammation and encouraging proper digestion. You can prepare a castor seed oil pack and place it on the stomach to soothe the painful symptoms of a hernia. [2]
Aloe Vera Juice
As a natural anti-inflammatory compound and soothing agent, aloe vera is often recommended for people who are struggling with the pain of a hernia. Aloe vera can be consumed every morning in juice form. For best results, it can be eaten before every meal, to possibly lower the chances of developing a hernia. [3]
Ice pack
When you suffer a hernia, there can often be inflammation, redness, and pain in the abdomen or groin. While this may not be the most comfortable remedy, applying an ice pack directly to the affected area can cause contraction and reduce inflammation in the body, often relieving the pain and bloating associated with it. [4]
Excruciating pain caused by Hernia Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Ginger Root
When it comes to reducing abdominal pain and soothing inflammatory conditions, few things are as effective as ginger root. You can consume this remedy in liquid form through concentrated ginger juice, or you can eat raw ginger to give your stomach a healthy boost and perhaps reduce much of the pain. It can protect the stomach and esophagus from the build-up of gastric juices, which can happen in the case of a hernia. You can also consume ginger root tea and relieve the pain and inflammation. [5]
Licorice
A hernia can cause damage to the stomach lining and the esophagus, and licorice root has long been known to be a healing stimulant for these parts of the body. Consuming licorice tea can quickly stimulate the regrowth of damaged tissues and can also relieve pain and inflammation along the way, due to its analgesic properties. [6]
Lose Weight
Obesity is a major risk factor for hernia patients, and it can also slow down the healing process. If you lose weight, your body might be under less physical strain, your posture will improve, and the symptoms may disappear naturally. You should also eat smaller meals, as this may put less pressure on the stomach and sphincter. [7]
Alter Your Diet
Certain foods should be specifically avoided if you wish to prevent or treat a hernia. Spicy and acidic foods and those that are difficult to digest should be avoided if you already have one or are prone to it. These foods can further inflame the stomach lining, making it more difficult for the healing process. [8]
Black Pepper Powder
Black pepper powder is useful for more than simply flavoring food. Black pepper has been associated with soothing stomach issues and reducing inflammation of the gut. It can also help suppress acid reflux and possibly stimulate healing in those parts of the body that may have been compromised when the organ began to push through the cavity wall. [9]
Relieve Stress
A major factor in the formation of hernias is stress and anxiety. Excess stress hormones in the body can weaken the body’s organs and plausibly put more strain on your metabolism as a whole. Stomach issues and acid reflux can also be affected by stress, which can exacerbate or increase your risk of hernias. Great stress reduction activities can include meditation, yoga, acupuncture, massages, as well as the use of essential oils and aromatherapy. [10]
Cut Back on Exercise
One of the main causes of hernias is strenuous exercise or overexertion while lifting weights. If you have experienced a hernia in the past or commonly engage in heavy exercise, cut back and perform easier workouts while in recovery, or as a preventative measure. The strain involved in exercise can be similar to straining during bowel movements, which can also cause hernias, so ensure that you drink enough fluids and eat enough fiber. [11]
Vegetable Juice
Probably, one of the simplest and most effective remedies for a hernia can be a glass of vegetable juice, particularly one made with carrots, spinach, onions, broccoli, and kale. The possibly dense nutrients and anti-inflammatory nature of vegetables can soothe the burning and painful symptoms of a hernia. Adding a bit of salt to the vegetable juice can be a great way to improve its effects. [12]
Word of Caution: If serious hernias aren’t treated with the proper surgical procedure, there is always a risk of complication or even death. If you strain yourself and feel the sudden onset of hernia pain, it is advisable to see a medical professional as soon as possible. These home remedies should be seen as complementary treatments and recovery aids in most cases of a hernia.
