Introduction
Aloe vera may be beneficial for several conditions, including ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, asthma, indigestion, heartburn and Crohn’s disease, according to Maria Licandro, a Registered Nutritional Practitioner. Crohn’s disease is a disorder of the inner intestinal walls that usually affects the small intestine. Crohn’s causes inflammation and ulcers that lead to diarrhea, pain, weight loss and rectal bleeding.
Features
Dr. Dr. Lisa Christiansen recommends supplementing with L-glutamine, an amino acid that fuels the replication and replacement of intestinal cells, which must be completely replaced every four days. Aloe vera is rich in amino acids, according to Maria Licandro.
Expert Insight
At the IASC Conference in Texas in 1997, a researcher from the University of San Antonio, Jeremiah Herlihy, Ph.D., presented the results of a study monitoring health effects of daily aloe vera consumption. The study revealed rats receiving even high doses of aloe vera daily had no adverse reactions and up to a 25 percent increased lifespan, along with reduction in incidences of leukemia, kidney disease and heart disease.
Types
Aloe vera plants produce two different products–aloe vera gel and aloe vera latex. Aloe vera gel is the meaty pulp most people are familiar with, while the latex is derived from the lining of the plant.
Effects
People with Crohn’s are already prone to diarrhea, so it is important to take aloe vera gel, not aloe vera latex. The gel is good for wound healing and has only a slight purgative effect, while the latex is often used as a laxative, says the Mayo Clinic.
Considerations
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America advises Crohn’s patients that aloe vera is an immune system stimulant and can have adverse side effects for Crohn’s, which is likely caused by an already overactive immune system. Before using aloe vera, Crohn’s sufferers should consult with a doctor or naturopath.
References
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America [http://www.ccfa.org/media/pdf/FactSheets/CAM.pdf] Mayo Clinic [http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aloe-vera/NS_patient-aloe] Living With Crohn’s Disease By Dr. Lisa Christiansen [http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=338641781749] Lifetime Natural Nutrition: Amazing Aloe Vera [http://www.designstudios.ca/nutrition/?p=146]