Aloe vera is a plant often associated with healing, particularly in its topical gel form. Aloe water, also known as aloe vera juice, takes components of this plant to create a drinkable liquid. According to website Herb Wisdom, drinking aloe water may help with some digestive problems such as acid reflux, ulcers and diverticular disorders. Mayo Clinic.com reports aloe taken by mouth works as a natural laxative. Clinical studies have not proved the effectiveness of aloe water for treatment of reflux. You should consult your physician before taking aloe for digestive problems.
Aloe Vera Plant
Aloe vera is a plant related to the cactus and used for centuries as a healing agent. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that aloe grows in subtropical and tropical locations such as South Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. Inside the succulent leaves of an aloe plant is a viscous gel made of 99 percent water. This gel also contains glycoproteins and polysaccharides known to help to reduce inflammation. Common uses of aloe gel include treatment of burns and skin irritations.
Aloe Latex
Aloe water is made with varying formulas and ingredients, depending on the manufacturer. Some forms of aloe juice will contain aloe latex, a yellow liquid taken from the skin of the aloe leaf. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that aloe juice can help lower blood sugar levels for those with type II diabetes. Aloe latex is a powerful and harsh natural laxative. Mayo Clinic.com states even though aloe latex is an effective laxative, it may not be more effective than other formulas, and can cause severe cramping and gas.
Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux, or acid reflux, is the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This condition is similar to Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, coughing, chest pain, vomiting and regurgitation of a sour liquid. The exact cause of acid reflux is unknown, however, lifestyle can play a role. Mayo Clinic.com recommends those with occasional acid reflux should lose weight, eat smaller meals and avoid triggers such as fried food and chocolate.
Benefits
The healing properties of aloe vera are indisputable. As a topical formula, this gel will reduce inflammation and cool burns. The aloe latex is a proven natural laxative that will relieve constipation. The claims that aloe water will reduce stomach acid during an acid reflux attack are yet to be proved by medical science. Aloe vera juice contains minerals and nutrients that may help the body heal and have therapeutic benefits. Herb Wisdom states that aloe vera contains vitamin C, B-12 and E, amino acids, essential fatty acids and enzymes that promote healing. More studies will be necessary to prove its benefit as a treatment or reflux.
Considerations
You should be wary of using aloe water as a treatment for acid reflux. It is unclear whether this juice will effectively reduce stomach acid or relieve discomfort. Some formulas of aloe vera juice will contain aloe latex and may have unexpected side effects, such as diarrhea. Long-term exposure to stomach acid from acid reflux can erode the esophagus and cause additional medical problems. If you suffer from chronic acid reflux, talk to your doctor about the best treatment for your condition. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, NCCAM, warns oral ingestion of aloe may decrease the absorption of some drugs.
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