Aloe vera juice contains leaf pulp that is rich in natural nutrients and
fiber. This well-known herbal remedy for the skin also has many
benefits for internal healing, cleansing and repair when ingested as a
nutritional drink. However, it can cause adverse side effects and
reactions and should only
be taken as directed. Do not consume aloe vera
that is not made for internal, use and consult your doctor before
self-medicating for any reason.
Digestive Benefits
Aloe vera contains nutrient compounds that help to heal and
soothe the skin when used externally. It may also have similar benefits
on the lining of the digestive tract, when ingested as a drink. A review
published in the "British Journal of General Practice" notes that aloe
vera decreases irritation and enhances healing and repair of ulcers in
the stomach and intestines. Aloe vera juice also helps to decrease
inflammation in irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and other inflammatory
disorders of the gut. Additionally, aloe vera can increase healthy
bacteria in the intestines that aid digestion.
Immune Benefits
Research published in the "Journal of Environmental Science
and Health" notes that aloe vera contains anti-bacterial, anti-viral and
anti-fungal properties that aid the immune system to cleanse the body
of toxins and invading pathogens. Additionally, aloe vera helps to
balance the immune system to reduce the effects of seasonal allergies,
rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory immune disorders.
Heart Benefits
Taking aloe vera internally may also help improve blood
circulation in the body. A clinical study published in the medical
journal "Angiology" reported that aloe vera may help decrease total fat
levels in patients with high cholesterol. This helps to reduce fatty
deposits and blood clots in the arteries of the heart and body. The
research noted that patients with diabetes showed the highest
improvement in cholesterol level; however, the exact mechanism of these
benefits are not yet determined.
Diarrhea Risk
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center warns that
drinking aloe vera can cause adverse effects such as diarrhea. This
occurs because aloe juice and aloe latex contain a substance called
anthraquinone, which is a laxative. Severe diarrhea can cause pain,
cramping and dehydration. Consult your doctor or nutritionist before
ingesting this herb and do not consume aloe vera that is not produced
for internal use.
Drug interactions
Like other herbal supplements, taking aloe vera internally
can cause adverse interactions with prescription and over-the-counter
medications. Aloe vera may inhibit or increase the effects of some
drugs, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. For
example, it may increase the blood-sugar-lowering effects of some
diabetes medications and may cause potassium loss if taken with water
pills or diuretics for heart conditions.
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