Aloe Vera Juice & Acid Reflux

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is native to North Africa. It has been used in medicine throughout Africa for hundreds of years. It has now also become popular in the Western world and is used to treat many ailments, such as minor cuts and burns, sunburn, indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux.

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a very severe form of heartburn, which causes chest pain, burning and sometimes difficulty breathing. According to Acid Reflux Facts, acid reflux affects more than 60 million adults and teens throughout the United States. Most sufferers experience acid reflux at least once per month. Many sufferers experience worse symptoms at night, which disrupts their sleep patterns and leaves them feeling fatigued.

Acid Reflux Causes

Acid Reflux Facts explains that the disorder is caused when the esophageal sphincter--the valve that closes off the esophagus from the stomach--does not function correctly and allows partially digested food and acid from the stomach to re-enter the esophagus. It may also be caused when the esophagus does not contract rapidly or strongly enough to force food into the stomach.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has been used in medicine for thousands of years. According to All For Natural Health, its uses dates back to ancient Egyptian times. These days aloe vera is recognized for its ability to help treat digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and acid reflux, skin disorders such as eczema, and minor burns and wounds.

Aloe Vera and Acid Reflux

Aloe vera, in liquid form or gel caps, can help digestive complaints such as acid reflux. According to Self Growth, aloe vera coats the esophagus and the stomach with a soothing layer that reduces inflammation and can prevent the stomach from refluxing.

Warning

You should consult your physician before using aloe vera. According to All 4 Natural Health, long-term use of aloe vera may cause potassium deficiency and fluid imbalance. Other potential side effects include stomach cramps and diarrhea. You should not take aloe vera if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, have diabetes, are menstruating, are taking antiarrhythmic drugs, diuretics or corticosteroids, or if you have undergone laparotomy.