What are the functions and effects of hemorrhoid ointment?
Jul 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
Commonly seen hemorrhoid ointments include Compound Shuangjin Hemorrhoid Ointment, Mayinglong Musk Hemorrhoid Ointment, etc. Generally, hemorrhoid ointments have effects such as reducing swelling and relieving pain, promoting blood circulation and stopping bleeding, clearing heat and drying dampness, removing decay and promoting tissue regeneration, and tightening and preventing prolapse. Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor. Hemorrhoid ointment is for external use only; it must not be taken orally. Before application, clean the affected area and your hands to avoid contaminating the ointment.
Commonly seen hemorrhoid ointments include Compound Shuangjin Hemorrhoid Ointment and Mayinglong Musk Hemorrhoid Ointment. Generally, hemorrhoid ointments have effects such as reducing swelling and relieving pain, promoting blood circulation and stopping bleeding, clearing heat and drying dampness, removing decayed tissue and promoting tissue regeneration, and astringency to prevent prolapse. These medications should be used under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Reducing Swelling and Relieving Pain
Hemorrhoid ointments contain ingredients such as borneol and menthol, which provide a cooling effect on the local skin, reduce redness and swelling in the affected area, and simultaneously alleviate pain. When hemorrhoids flare up with swelling and pain, applying the ointment to the affected area can rapidly relieve discomfort and improve pain caused by friction during movement.
2. Promoting Blood Circulation and Stopping Bleeding
Ingredients such as safflower and notoginseng in hemorrhoid ointment help promote local blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and constrict ruptured blood vessels to reduce bleeding. When hemorrhoids are accompanied by rectal bleeding, application of the ointment can aid in stopping the bleeding and lowering the risk of anemia caused by blood loss.
3. Clearing Heat and Drying Dampness
Ingredients such as Phellodendron bark and sophora in hemorrhoid ointment have the function of clearing heat and drying dampness. They can eliminate damp-heat pathogens in the anal area, alleviate symptoms such as itching and increased secretions caused by damp-heat, and reduce local inflammatory reactions when hemorrhoids flare up due to damp-heat descending downward.
4. Removing Decay and Promoting Tissue Regeneration
Hemorrhoid ointment can remove necrotic tissue from the surface of hemorrhoids and promote the growth of fresh granulation tissue, accelerating wound healing. When hemorrhoids become ulcerated or damaged, applying the ointment can help repair the injured tissue and shorten the healing time.
5. Astringency and Prevention of Prolapse
Hemorrhoid ointment has an astringent effect, which can enhance the elasticity and contractility of the anal tissues, reducing the prolapse of internal hemorrhoids. When symptoms of prolapse of internal hemorrhoids are mild, using the ointment can improve the prolapse condition and reduce the frequency of prolapse.
Hemorrhoid ointment is for external use only and must not be taken orally. The affected area and hands should be cleaned before application to avoid contaminating the ointment. It is contraindicated for individuals allergic to any of its components, and should be used with caution in those with allergic constitutions. Pregnant women should consult a physician before use to avoid any potential effects on the fetus. Spicy and irritating foods should be avoided during treatment, and bowel movements should be kept regular. If symptoms such as worsening redness, swelling, or itching occur after application, use should be discontinued immediately and medical advice sought. It should be used under adult supervision for children and the elderly or physically weak individuals.
