The aloe vera plant has a long history of health benefits, namely for the skin. But the plant's properties go beyond treating the external body; it can help internally as well. Aloe vera aids in digestion and has been used as a laxative for treating constipation for many years. It helps to soothe, cleanse and maintain healthy tissues, inside and out.
History
Long ago used in folk medicine, aloe vera was popular in ancient Egyptian times. They referred to it as the "plant of immortality," according to Maharishi Ayurveda Products International, Inc., and the plant was often buried with the pharaohs as a gift. For centuries it had been used as a topical treatment for wounds, gaining recognition in Greece, Rome, India and China. The aloe plant grows in hot, dry regions and is native to North Africa and Spain.
Aloe Plant
Aloe vera is known as an anti-inflammatory and antibiotic. Although there are more than 240 species of aloe, the most potent is the aloe vera barbadenis, according to Maharishi Ayurveda Products International, Inc. The succulent leaves contain a transparent gel which is 96 percent water. The gel also contains vitamins A, B, C and E, calcium, amino acids and enzymes. According to All 4 Natural Health, aloe vera also has a minimum of three anti-inflammatory fatty acids.
Properties
The gel and the inner lining of the aloe leaf each have their own health benefits. According to Positive Health Online, the aloe gel works within the intestines to help break down food and cleanse the digestive system. MayoClinic.com states that the dried inner lining of the leaf, referred to as latex, has been used as a laxative. Scientific evidence has proven that anthroquinone glycosides have laxative properties which are found in aloe latex.
Digestion
Both Maharishi Ayurveda Products International, Inc. and All 4 Natural Health state that the anti-inflammatory fatty acids found in aloe vera alkalize the digestive juices in the stomach, preventing excess acidity. This helps to decrease indigestion and allow the digestive system to absorb more nutrients. Aloe vera also helps to detoxify the intestines by increasing blood flow and promoting the growth of new blood cells. Since the plant has antifungal properties, it can help to prevent fungus and candida, yeast infections of the intestines.
Considerations
Since the aloe plant is in the same Liliaceae family as garlic and onions, MayoClinic.com warns that those with an allergy to the Liliaceae family may also have an allergy to aloe vera. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate herbs and supplements so caution should be taken when using aloe vera. Some side effects, such as abdominal cramping or diarrhea, may be present. Oral ingestion of aloe vera for more than one year may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Always consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.
