Updated: July 15, 2025
Hemorrhoids are a common rectal issue, referring to swollen veins in the lower rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or around the anus (external hemorrhoids). About 50% of adults experience hemorrhoids in their lifetime, with around 5% affected at any given time. They often develop due to increased pressure in the rectal area from straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or obesity.
Common symptoms include discomfort, itching, pain, and bleeding during bowel movements. While usually not serious, persistent or severe cases require medical treatment.
Kampo Self-Check for Hemorrhoids
1. Blood Stasis Type
2. Damp-Heat Type
3. Qi Deficiency Type
4. Constipation-Induced
Kampo’s Perspectives on Hemorrhoids
1. Blood Stasis
In Kampo medicine, hemorrhoids are often linked to poor blood circulation, causing blood stagnation in the rectal area. This leads to swelling, pain, bleeding, or lumps. Kampo therapy focuses on improving blood flow and resolving blood stasis.
- Wetness Medicine Link – This Kampo perspective aligns with the Western view that increased pressure and poor venous return contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
- Tea Care – Safflower & Licorice Root Tea is an effective blend for Blood Stasis-type hemorrhoids, promoting blood circulation, easing pain, reducing inflammation, and being gentle on the stomach.*
2. Damp-Heat
Heat accumulation and Damp-Heat in the lower body, especially the intestines, are key factors that worsen hemorrhoids with bleeding or inflammation. Kampo therapy focuses on clearing heat and drying dampness.
- Wetness Medicine Link – This Kampo perspective aligns with the Western view that inflammation and increased blood flow in the rectal area contribute to swelling and discomfort.
- Tea Care – Hatomugi & Dandelion Root Tea helps reduce damp-heat, relieve inflammation, and ease symptoms such as bleeding and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.*
3. Qi Deficiency
Qi deficiency—especially Spleen Qi deficiency—is a key cause of prolapsed hemorrhoids, as weak digestive energy fails to hold organs in place. Kampo therapy focuses on strengthening Spleen Qi to support and lift the organs.
- Wetness Medicine Link – This Kampo perspective aligns with the Western view that weakened pelvic floor muscles or connective tissues can lead to hemorrhoidal prolapse.
- Tea Care – Licorice Root & Jujube Tea is a gentle, easy-to-find blend that supports Spleen Qi, aids digestion, and helps relieve prolapsed hemorrhoids caused by Qi deficiency.*
4. Constipation
Constipation is a common contributing factor, as hard stools and straining increase pressure and worsen hemorrhoids. Kampo addresses this by moistening the intestines and promoting easier bowel movements with herbs that have lubricating and laxative properties.
- Wetness Medicine Link – Constipation is a known cause of hemorrhoids in both Kampo and Western medicine, as straining increases rectal pressure. While Western care uses fiber or laxatives, Kampo eases bowel movements by moistening the intestines with gentle, lubricating herbs.
- Tea Care – Hojicha & Licorice Root Tea is a mild blend that helps ease constipation-related strain, supports smoother bowel movements, and reduces pressure on hemorrhoids.*
Kampo Therapy Q&A
Q: How can I manage hemorrhoids in daily life?
In Kampo medicine, a balanced lifestyle is key to managing hemorrhoids and overall health. An imbalanced diet—like excess alcohol or spicy food—can create internal heat and worsen inflammation.
Prolonged bleeding may lead to Qi and Blood deficiency, weakening circulation and slowing recovery. Rather than treating only local symptoms, Kampo supports the whole body by:
- Improving blood circulation to prevent congestion
- Reducing inflammation and clearing heat
- Replenishing Qi and Blood for long-term healing
Q: What teas are good for daily hemorrhoid care?
Barley Tea (Mugi-cha) and lightly brewed Green Tea help clear internal heat, hydrate the body, and support digestion. Green Tea, in particular, provides a mild cooling effect and promotes circulation but should be consumed in moderation, especially if dryness is present.
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Instead of self-diagnosing, we encourage you to consult a qualified healthcare provider for proper guidance and care.
