Aloe vera is commonly known for its topical use to treat skin conditions, such as poison ivy, eczema, wounds and sunburns. Some alternative health practitioners believe that drinking aloe vera juice also has many health benefits. Aloe vera juice is made from a gel from the aloe vera plant and can be purchased at most health food stores. Consult with your physician before beginning a health regimen including aloe vera juice.
Immune System Benefits
Drinking aloe vera juice can boost the body's immune system, according to Aloe Vera Studies, a website dedicated to the study of the benefits of aloe vera. Having a healthy immune system aids in warding of colds and other illnesses and promotes a healthier lifestyle. According to Dr. Balch., aloe vera juice is sometimes used in the treatment of AIDS, a disease that attacks the immune system and leaves the body vulnerable to infection and disease.
Consult with your doctor before using aloe vera to boost the immune system. Although aloe vera juice can strengthen the immune system and help ward off illness, it should not be used as a replacement for your current medications. If you have AIDS, it is important to speak with your physician, before beginning regular use of aloe vera juice, to avoid possible interactions with your current medications.
Colon Benefits
Drinking aloe vera juice cleanses the colon and eases both constipation and diarrhea. Dr. Balch recommends using aloe vera juice, in conjunction with psyllium husk, to periodically cleanse the colon. Using psyllium husks, in addition to aloe vera juice, removes excess toxins that build up in the colon.
Consult with a health care professional before using aloe vera to cleanse the colon. Although many alternative medicine practitioners believe that regular colon cleansing promotes health, some physicians dispute the safety and necessity of the colon cleansing process. According to Dr. Balch, aloe vera juice should not be used on an ongoing basis as an intolerance to the juice may develop.
Digestive Benefits
Drinking aloe vera juice is especially beneficial to the digestive system, according to Lisha Simester, author of "The Natural Health Bible." Drinking aloe vera juice can aid in healing stomach disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, constipation, colitis, hemorrhoids and rectal itching.
Speak with a health care professional before using aloe vera juice to promote digestive health to avoid any possible interactions with current medications. If symptoms worsen or persist while using aloe vera juice, discontinue use and contact a physician immediately. Intolerance to aloe vera juice may occur if it is used on an ongoing basis.
References
- Aloe Vera Research: Aloe Vera Juice Benefits
- "Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C; 1997
- "The Natural Health Bible"; Lisha Simester; 2006
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