Are wheatgrass, zinc oxide, lemon and lime good cures for anal fissures?

By | July 1, 2017

Anal fissures are tears or cracks in the anus or lining of the anal canal. It can be caused by prolonged constipation, passing out of a large stool, vaginal childbirth, injury, or diseases like Crohn’s.

These can be painful and can cause bleeding.

Treatment depends on the type of fissure and other factors like the severity of symptoms.

Medical treatment involves the use of BOTOX injection, topical medications like Nifedipine, Diltiazem, and Nitrolgycerin, stool softeners, anesthetics, steroids, fiber-rich foods, and sitz bath.

Surgery like lateral internal sphincterotomy may also be recommended to a patient who has chronic anal fissures and who does not respond to any form of medical treatment.

Both medical and surgical treatments offer effective healing results. But, they can be expensive.

The price of these treatments as well as the post-treatment recurrence rates and complications cause people to seek alternative cures. So, are Wheatgrass, Zinc Oxide, Lemon, and Lime effective in curing anal fissures?

Wheat Grass

It has been proven that wheat grass helps in the healing of wounds and burns. Consumers can also attest to its effectiveness in healing anal fissures.

Some may not be convinced of its effectiveness, but wheat grass has antioxidants, phytosterols, amino acids, and minerals that are essential in promoting healing of the anal cracks.

Using a cotton bud, apply a small amount of this cream inside the anal canal two times a day. Results vary from one patient to another. Symptoms may disappear within a week or within six weeks.

Wheat grass cream is safe to use, and it is cost-effective as compared to other treatments like BOTOX injection and surgery.

Zinc Oxide

Zinc Oxide cream is an over-the-counter mild astringent. It has been used in the treatment of diaper rash, burns, cuts, poison ivy, and scrapes.

It works by making a skin barrier to protect the affected area from irritants and moisture.

Zinc oxide cream can be applied over anal fissures several times a day or as necessary. There are no known side-effects of this drug. So, it is safe to use.

It is best to apply this cream after bathing, sitz bath, or after washing your anogenital area.

Lemon and Lime

Lemon and lime are good sources of Vitamin C. They are also helpful in detoxifying the body.

They also prevent anxiety, depression, and forgetfulness, and decrease blood pressure.

Lemon and lime also helps ease digestion and prevent constipation. Squeeze in some lemon or lime in a glass of warm water and drink it early in the morning.

These treatments offer healthful benefits to patients with anal fissures. These are also cost-effective and are widely available. But, it is still best to consult a physician before trying any form of treatment.

All in all, there is no single treatment for anal fissures. It is important to do the following while you are undergoing any kind of treatment (but be sure to first check with your physician):

  • Add fiber to your diet
  • Increase your fluid intake
  • Increase your physical activity
  • Avoid straining during a bowel movement
  • Keep your anal area dry