Description
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is widely known for its numerous medicinal properties and health benefits. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which can help promote overall health and is widely used as a natural remedy to treat many ailments including gut issues. Aloe vera also contains enzymes that help break down fat and sugar, which helps your digestive system to function properly.
Studies have shown that consuming aloe vera juice may have additional digestive benefits, such as reducing the incidence of stomach ulcers and improving digestion (1, 2). Additionally, aloe vera juice can help treat constipation (3) and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat digestive disorders such as Crohn’s disease and gastritis (1).
Constipation
Aloe vera has been used to help digestive issues including constipation for centuries. Studies have shown that consuming aloe vera juice can help alleviate constipation due to its laxative properties (4). These active compounds are known to help loosen stools and increase the transit time of food through the digestive system, thus relieving constipation (3).
Irritable bowel syndrome
Aloe vera may have a beneficial effect on those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Studies have found that consuming aloe vera juice may reduce the symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain, discomfort, and flatulence (5). Similarly, a systematic review and meta-analysis found that aloe vera is an effective and safe treatment for IBS (6).
Ulcerative Colitis
Several studies have suggested a potential link between aloe vera and ulcerative colitis. A small European study which involved 44 adults with ulcerative colitis, found that those who were assigned to receive aloe vera twice daily for a month showed positive results with almost half of the participants responding to the treatment (7, 8). Additionally, another study suggests that aloe vera can help to ameliorate ulcerative colitis by promoting the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines and thus, reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract (9).
All together, these findings suggest that aloe vera has significant medicinal properties in the gut and can be a beneficial addition to aid gut health.
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