Anal Itching

Anal itching is usually related to other illnesses of the gastrointestinal tract, or local skin conditions. Because of the moist environment of the anal area and repeated contact with waste, skin irritations and abrasions are slow to heal and require persistent care. Red skin around the anus indicates a food sensitivity.

Itching is often the result of a local eczema, which can arise through a sensitivity to detergents and soaps. It can also be food related; spicy food, dairy products, citrus fruits, soy, corn, tomato and eggs are irritants. Rectal itching can be caused by associated problems in the anal area, including hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Worms should be considered as a possible cause; pinworms are especially common in children. A candida fungal infection of the bowels is another common cause. Poor hygiene will intensify the problem, as will synthetic underwear (which promotes sweating and dampness), since many sweat glands are located in the anus. Insufficient drying after bathing also promotes dampness, while excessive washing with soap will dry the skin, causing itching. Constipation aggravates the condition.

Avoid spicy food and any other food which you suspect of causing the irritation. The smallest amount of black pepper, cayenne or cinnamon added to food can produce extreme itching in the anus of sensitive persons. Eat raw, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains for fiber to combat constipation and anal fissures, which can cause itching. Eat plain, unsweetened yogurt, kefir and other lactic acid fermented food to fight a possible candida yeast infection. Unrefined, cold-pressed flax seed oil will soften the stools and lubricate the walls of the rectum, reducing irritation.

Supplements and herbs

Often due to a candida yeast infection, anal itching can be remedied with acidophilus supplementation. In addition, an acidophilus capsule can be opened and applied directly to the skin. Vitamins A and B complex can remedy anal itching, as a lack of these vitamins typically causes problems. Iron-deficiency anemia is another cause of itching.

Herbal remedies provide effective relief of itching and irritation.

• If the itching is due to hemorrhoids, apply cool compresses of witch hazel to shrink blood vessels, chamomile to speed healing and peppermint to relieve itching.
• Salves of calendula, St. John's wort, aloe vera or plantain relieve pain and itching. Apply as often as needed.
• Slippery elm enemas neutralize acidity and prevent irritations.
• Stinging nettle juice cleanses the blood and facilitates bowel evacuation. Take 1 tsp. three times daily.
• Where the itching is due to worms, take 15 drops of wormwood tincture twice daily. Avoid during pregnancy.
• Dandelion root is a gentle laxative and effective treatment for worms. Mix 2 tsp. of the root with 1 cup boiling water, simmer for ten minutes and drink three times a day.
• Aloe vera and tea tree oil mixed with some olive oil rubbed on the skin help relieve itching.

What else you can do

• Keep anal area meticulously clean by washing after each bowel movement with a cotton cloth soaked in warm water. Do not use toilet paper.
• Apply concentrated whey compresses on anal area and take 2 tbsp. of whey with a glass of water two to three times daily.
• Hydrated bentonite neutralizes toxins and bacteria. Drink 1 tsp. in a glass of room-temperature water daily after meals.
• Wear cotton underwear only. Avoid synthetic underwear, tights, scented soaps and talcum powder.
• Itching can be a reaction to traces of laundry detergent in the underwear. Try a different detergent and rinse underwear well.
• Hot sitz-baths will help relieve the problem.

Usual dosage

• Lactobacillus acidophilus, 1-3 capsules or 1 tsp. daily, between meals
• Vitamin A, 25,000 IU
• Vitamin B complex, 50 mg twice daily
• Iron, 15 mg, every other day