The aloe vera plant has been used for centuries as a herbal remedy to heal wounds, scrapes, burns and skin irritation and still remains the most popularly used medicinal herb. Aloe vera also has internal benefits when ingested as a herbal tonic. Specially produced aloe can be safely consumed to help treat a variety of digestive illnesses such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease. These chronic illnesses are serious and should only be treated under the guidance of your doctor. Further research on is the therapeutic benefits of aloe vera gel in treating Crohn's disease is needed.
What is Crohn's Disease?
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease or IBD, as defined by the National Institutes of Health. This chronic condition occurs when the immune system overreacts, causing inflammation of the digestive tract. Crohn's disease usually affects the intestines but can occur anywhere from the mouth to the rectum. This autoimmune disease can lead to thickening of the intestinal wall and even ulcers or holes in the intestines. Treatment for Crohn's varies depending on individual symptoms but may include immune-suppressing medications and changes in diet. A study published in the medical journal "Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics" notes that up to 50 percent of patients with inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's seek alternative treatment, with aloe vera being the most common.
Symptoms of Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can cause long-term symptoms. These include abdominal pain and cramping, fever, fatigue, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss, rectal bleeding and pain during bowel movements. This disease affects individuals differently and symptoms range from mild to severe and may occur continuously or sporadically with sudden flare-ups.
Benefits of Aloe Vera for Crohn's
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that aloe vera gel is 99 percent water, but is also rich in substances called glycoproteins and polysaccharides. These molecules help reduce healing time by diminishing pain and inflammation and stimulate skin growth and healing. Just as aloe vera soothes the skin, these compounds also help treat the inner lining of the intestines and digestive tract when consumed internally. Additionally, aloe vera contains more than 200 vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients that help strengthen and balance the immune system to reduce symptoms of Crohn's disease.
Aloe for Internal Use
Only consume aloe vera that has been produced for internal use. This type of aloe vera will state that it is for consumption and will have an expiration date. It should also be stored in the fridge to maintain freshness. Using pulp from fresh, whole aloe leaves is not recommended as it may contain aloe latex. This yellow, bitter liquid comes from the outer portion of the aloe leaf. Though it is safe for use on the skin, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns that it is a potent laxative and can cause stomach cramping and diarrhea if ingested.
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