Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) is widely used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for a variety of ailments, including as a supportive remedy for hemorrhoids (piles). In Ayurveda, hemorrhoids are understood as a condition involving inflammation, swelling, and sometimes bleeding of the rectal veins, often associated with imbalances in the body's doshas. Punarnava is prized for its purported anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and mild laxative properties. Traditional texts and Ayurvedic practitioners recommend it for its ability to reduce swelling, relieve constipation, and support the body’s natural detoxification processes, which are seen as helpful in managing the symptoms and underlying causes of hemorrhoids.

Scientific evidence specifically supporting punarnava for hemorrhoids is limited. There are a few animal and in vitro studies indicating anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects of punarnava extracts, but direct clinical trials in humans for hemorrhoids are lacking. Some broad pharmacological studies suggest benefits for liver health, fluid retention, and inflammation, which may be indirectly supportive. However, these findings do not amount to robust scientific validation for hemorrhoid treatment. Thus, the use of punarnava for hemorrhoids remains primarily rooted in traditional knowledge and empirical use rather than in strong scientific evidence.