What is appendix?

The appendix is a slim tube-shaped paunch that is extended out of your large intestine and has a length of about six inches. When it becomes swollen, it is called appendicitis.

Location of appendix

The appendix is a useless organ that is positioned in the lower right side of abdomen and looks like a small, worm-like attachment to the colon.


The particular cause of appendicitis is not always clear. Sometimes, it fills with parasites, phlegm or stool which become a cause of irritation in it. The wall of the appendix can become inflamed with the presence of fecal matter. Bacteria can rapidly multiply within an inflamed appendix and can be spread within an abdomen if appendix bursts. The consequential infection can cause swellings to form. The people suffering from Crohn’s disease and intestinal disorder are also vulnerable to an appendix.


There is a range of symptoms of appendicitis. It is not always necessary that all people will have all the symptoms, but it is essential that you see a doctor as quickly as possible because it can rupture within 48 to 72 hours after the beginning of symptoms.
Below are some of the symptoms of an appendix.

Loss of hunger
It is the very first symptom of an appendix and is caused due to pain or disturbance in the abdomen.

Abdominal pain around the appendix area
Abdominal bloating is also one of the initial signs of appendicitis is. Pain may originate around your navel and moves eventually to the lower right side of your abdomen. It might increase while Coughing, Moving, Deep breathing or Jumping.

Fever and chills
A person having appendix may also suffer from high fever. Appendicitis generally causes a low-grade fever that remains under 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It can also cause chills. The fever may rise on the bursting of an appendix.
Nausea and vomiting
As nausea and vomiting is related to stomach or abdominal area so it can originate in a person having an appendix.

Other symptoms include:
⦁ Dizziness/feelings of faintness
⦁ Blood in your vomit, urine, or stool
⦁ Diarrhea
⦁ Painful urination
⦁ Dull or sharp pain anywhere in the upper or lower abdomen, back, or rectum

How to treat appendix?

In severe cases, the appendix may have to be removed through surgery which is called appendectomy, laparotomy or laparoscopy. If ignored it may rupture and results could be fatal. However, there are certain ancient remedies to get relief from it. This should be done after consultation with a doctor.

1. Castor Oil
It is an effective home remedy for appendicitis and can help relieve the blockage and reduce inflammation. Its oral intake helps treat constipation and improves bowel movements. Try to repeat this remedy 3 times a week for 2 to 3 months.
2. Garlic
It has anti-inflammatory therapeutic potential that helps in the treatment of appendicitis. It helps reduce the inflammation as well as pain. Eat 2 to 3 raw garlic cloves on an empty stomach daily or take garlic capsules after consultation with a doctor.
3. Ginger
It can not only reduce pain and inflammation but also help in relieving the common symptoms of vomiting and nausea. Drink ginger tea 2 or 3 times daily or massage your lower abdomen with ginger oil a few times daily.
4. Lemon
It is also very helpful in treating appendicitis. The natural citrus juice in it helps relieve pain and prevent constipation and indigestion.Take a mixture of fresh juice from one lemon and raw honey for few weeks.
6. Basil
It helps in treating low-grade fever during appendix. Take 3 to 4 raw basil leaves daily to control appendicitis symptoms.