IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is a syndrome characterized by a disturbance in the large intestine that disrupts the movement of food through the intestines. In order to confirm a diagnosis of IBS, your physician will conduct an evaluation to determine your physical and emotional health status. Diagnostic testing, including blood tests and stool samples, may be required if your symptoms do not follow the general protocol of the disease. Although anecdotal evidence suggests the healing properties of aloe may serve as an effective remedy for IBS, such claims are not supported by scientific studies and more research is required.
About IBS
Abdominal pain, cramping and bloating accompanied with either diarrhea or constipation are the major symptoms of IBS. While the symptoms are extremely uncomfortable, IBS is not a serious disease, nor does it contribute to more severe afflictions. Although there is no known cause for IBS, several factors -- such as stress, food allergies and the presence of infection -- dictate the severity and recurrence of the problem.
Properties of Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera is cultivated worldwide, and grows wild in temperate and tropical climates. The actual juice of the aloe vera is located between the skin and the aloe gel. However, proponents of the health benefits of aloe vera juice frequently prepare a blend of the gel with purified water to ingest. The bactericidal and fungicidal properties of aloe help to prevent infection and stimulate the healing process. Aloe also contains polysaccharides, or natural carbohydrates, which might help to improve digestive disorders, such as Crohn's disease and IBS.
Aloe Vera Juice for IBS
As of 2011, the conventional treatments for IBS include over-the-counter laxative and fiber supplements, relaxation therapies, antispasmodics and sedatives. The gel of the aloe vera plant contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids, phytonutrients and several unidentified compounds. Because the polysaccharides in aloe vera reduce inflammation and speed healing, a glass of aloe vera juice each day may help to improve the unpleasant symptoms of IBS, according to the Natural News website.
Considerations
It is important to differentiate between aloe vera juice and aloe gel when using the herbal to treat IBS. Because processing affects the potency of aloe vera, and in some instances may seriously compromise the plant's healing properties, it is best to use a fresh source whenever possible. When purchasing aloe vera products, keep in mind that the term "aloe extract" suggests the product is a derivative of the plant, and not a pure product.
References
- Herbs2000: Aloe Vera
- Natural News; The Aloe Vera miracle: A Natural Medicine for Cancer, Cholesterol, Diabetes, Inflammation, IBS, and Other Health Conditions; Mike Adams
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- PubMed Health; Irritable Bowel Syndrome; David Dugdale et. al; July 2010
- Mayo Clinic; Irritable Bowel Syndrome; July 2009
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