Aloe vera is an ubiquitous ingredient in soaps and moisturisers, but it may also offer benefits for people who suffer from stomach issues.
The drinking of Aloe vera juice has lately been suggested as a possible treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), according to certain sources. This article will address whether or not Aloe vera juice can be used to alleviate the symptoms of IBS, as well as any potential adverse effects that may occur.
What is Aloe vera juice?
Aloe vera plant extracts are frequently used in complementary and alternative medicine, and they are believed to provide a variety of cosmetic and health benefits.
Aloe vera is believed to offer a variety of beneficial effects on the skin. Traditionally, Aloe vera leaves were applied to wounds or burns to soothe them.
In recent years, it has become customary for individuals to extract gel from the leaves and use it to treat skin diseases like as dermatitis or incorporate it into cosmetic products such as lotions and soaps.
As a result of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial characteristics, aloe vera gel is often used as a cosmetic element in toothpaste.
The green section of the leaf of aloe vera can be used to make a juice, which can be consumed. This juice has laxative properties, and it can be used to treat constipation or diarrhoea, among other things.
Aloe vera juice and irritable bowel syndrome(IBS)
Constipation and diarrhea are two symptoms associated with IBS that are supposed to be alleviated by aloe vera, according to some research.
The anti-inflammatory characteristics of Aloe vera may aid in the reduction of gastrointestinal inflammation, which can contribute to the development of IBS symptoms.
People who suffer with IBS are more likely than not to manage their symptoms by dietary and lifestyle modifications. These modifications can include adopting a high-fiber diet or eliminating items that cause symptoms, which is most typically accomplished through the use of a low-FODMAP diet. FODMAPs are a type of carbohydrate that is difficult for the body to break down and absorb into the bloodstream.
Aloe vera, on the other hand, is currently uncertain whether it would be included in an official low FODMAP diet at this time, and its use is controversial for a variety of reasons.
In order to assess the efficiency of Aloe vera in the treatment of IBS symptoms, only a small number of research have been undertaken.
Randomised controlled study of aloe vera as a therapy for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) was conducted in 2006. For three months, participants with IBS were randomly assigned to either Aloe vera pills or a placebo. Aloe vera supplementation did not appear to be beneficial in the treatment of IBS symptoms, according to the findings of the study.
A more recent study, which included 110 patients with IBS, focused on the participants’ overall quality of life. Researchers were unable to demonstrate a statistically significant difference between Aloe vera and a placebo substance in terms of lowering IBS symptoms once more.
People with IBS said that Aloe vera had a positive effect on lowering gastrointestinal pain and flatulence, according to a study conducted in 2013 on the herb. Nonetheless, because there was no control group included in this study, it was impossible to verify whether symptoms had improved as a direct result of the Aloe vera treatment. It is possible that symptoms have improved naturally over time or as a result of a placebo effect.
There is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of Aloe vera to treat the symptoms of IBS. More high-quality randomised controlled trials would be required to assess whether or not Aloe vera has any beneficial effects on persons who suffer from IBS.
Side effects
Aloe vera juice can be purified (decolorized) or unpurified (non-decolorized), depending on its use . The use of unpurified juice may result in harmful side effects such as:
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- dehydration or electrolyte imbalances
- low blood sugar levels
- allergic reactions
- interactions with other medications
There has been some evidence linking unpurified juice to cancer in animal trials following long-term use, but it is unclear whether this is also true in humans.
Juices prepared from the entire leaf of the plant may contain latex and are more likely to have unpleasant side effects than other types of juice. This type of juice should only be consumed in modest quantities by individuals.
Because Aloe vera juice is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, it is recommended that people only purchase it from trustworthy sources. Anyone suffering negative side effects after using Aloe vera juice should consult with a physician.
What exactly is IBS?
IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a chronic disorder that affects the digestive tract. This condition can cause people to have abdominal pain and bloating, as well as excessive gas, diarrhoea, and constipation, among other symptoms.
The symptoms that are experienced, as well as their severity, might differ significantly from person to person. It is still unknown what causes IBS, and there is no known treatment or cure for the ailment.
Conclusion
It is possible that aloe vera juice can alleviate the symptoms of IBS, but additional empirical study is needed to back up these claims. According to the current state of research, there is insufficient data to recommend that persons suffering with IBS should drink Aloe Vera juice to warrant the risk of undesirable side effects.
Before consuming Aloe vera juice for IBS symptoms, people who wish to do so should make sure the juice has been purified and speak with a doctor.
