Can I Use Aloe Vera for IBS?
Did you know that Aloe Vera is good for a large number of skin conditions? When I was little I thought that it was good only for treating sunburns. However, this miraculous plant gives us so much more than that. Drinking Aloe Vera juice can help alleviate the symptom of constipation too. However, there is not enough evidence to back this statement up at the moment. But can we use Aloe Vera for IBS?
IBS comes from irritable bowel syndrome and it refers to a condition where one has cramps, constipation, gas and abdominal pain. Sometimes it can also involve diarrhea and constipation. Those that suffer from this condition can alternate between the two. If these symptoms occur on a chronic basis, then you can go to the doctor for a diagnosis.
Can I Use Aloe Vera for IBS?
Back to the question, however. Can I use Aloe Vera for IBS and is it effective? First of all, what you need to know is that Aloe has a laxative effect. Thus, it can relieve constipation as well as keep it away. Be mindful that the substance in Aloe can also irritate your bowels and cause cramps. In addition to this, if you take too many laxatives, your body loses immunity to them. In the end, you won’t be able to have a normal bowel movement without laxatives.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not allow for companies to sell products with Aloe for constipation. As of now, there is not enough information regarding the safety of these products. Until we know more about their effectiveness, things might change. A better approach for managing your IBS is to change your diet.
Health care professionals do not encourage people to take Aloe Vera for IBS. Therefore, it is best to consult with your doctor and find out what else you can try. You can opt for eating more meals, but in smaller portions. This makes them easier for your stomach to digest. Additionally, drink more water and avoid caffeine as much as you can.
To sum up, there are other alternatives that you can try for irritable bowel syndrome. However, if you really want to give Aloe a try, feel free to do so. Just make sure to discontinue the use if your condition does not seem to improve.