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Aloe Vera for Stomach Ulcers

Aug 23, 2011 | By Sarah Williams
Aloe Vera for Stomach Ulcers
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Aloe barbadensis, called aloe vera, is a plant known to decrease inflammation and is commonly used to treat burns and other skin wounds. It produces medicinal gel from within the fleshy, cactus-like leaves and a yellow latex found under the skin. These can be put into capsule, powder, gel, cream or beverage form. Insufficient evidence exists for oral aloe vera to be considered an effective treatment measure for gastric ulcers, however preliminary results seem promising.

Gastric Ulcers

A gastric ulcer is an injury in the stomach's mucosal lining due to upset in the gastroduodenal defense system.The most common cause of stomach ulceration is infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, although ulcers are generally associated with gastritis, inflammatory involvement of acid-producing cells and cell atrophy. Smoking and prolonged use of corticosteroids or non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs contribute immensely to ulcer-causing mucosal damage. Alcohol infiltrates mucosa quickly and injures the membrane, sloughs off cells and erodes stomach lining. Disordered gut motility, duodenal reflux and decreased gastric emptying may worsen symptoms and slow down the healing process. Gastric ulcers as a result of psychological stress or physical trauma can cause hemorrhaging; therefore it is imperative that therapeutic steps are taken immediately.

Research

Pioneering evidence shows that non-severe cases of ulcerative colitis benefited from taking 25 to 50 ml of aloe gel two times per day and showed a marked reduction of symptoms. A 2004 animal study published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" found aloe vera able to inhibit gastric acid secretion and to protect the stomach against mucosal lesions. A 2006 study published in the "World Journal of Gastroenterology" found that aloe vera could actually promote the healing of gastric ulcers. These findings provide the chance for further research and possible treatment of stomach ulcers using aloe vera derived products.

Side Effects and General Warning

Currently, oral aloe latex is considered unsafe at any dose and can cause cramping and gastric pain. Long-term use can cause diarrhea, kidney issues, blood in the urine, changes in blood sugar, decreased potassium levels, malaise and heart problems. Some fatalities have been reported. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take aloe gel or latex in any oral form, as it is related to miscarriage and birth defects. A controversial piece of information is that aloe vera products made from the whole leaf will contain some aloe latex. Aloe latex is a bowel irritant and should not be taken if you have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. It may also worsen the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

Effective Treatment

Treatment for gastric ulcers includes medications specifically for Heliobacter pylori if present and acid reducers, allowing the ulcer adequate healing time. Medications may include, but are not limited to, antibiotics, proton-pump inhibitors and bismuth. If your ulcer was not caused by bacteria and you must remain on non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, you may have to remain on proton-pump inhibitors for as long as eight weeks and be given misoprostol and sucralfate. An endoscopy and surgery may be necessary to stop severe bleeding. Severe bleeding can cause a loss of iron, so supplementation may be necessary. It is best to avoid milk products, caffeinated beverages, chili powder, black pepper and red pepper, as these exacerbate symptoms.

References

Article reviewed by Jenna Marie Last updated on: Aug 23, 2011

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