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Monday, April 22, 2013

The Wonders Of Aloe Vera


Aloe Vera, that cactus-looking plant that is actually a succulent, has more benefits than you probably realize. It is has anti- bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Normally thought of as a wonderful salve for skin problems, it also helps with many health issues when ingested in  juice form.

During some past flare-ups of my Ulcerative Colitis (UC), I drank aloe vera juice as part of my healing regimen. That, along with Robert's Formula (the brand I used is no longer available) and a product called Intestinew, quickly brought me back into remission.  Not all aloe vera juices, however, are the same. Some contain aloe latex (aloin) which can exacerbate problems with diarrhea if you have Crohns or UC, although if you have constipation it might be useful. Check the label to make sure it is aloin and preservative-free if you have bowel or other issues.  I used a product called George's Road Runner, expensive, but it is distilled and tasted like water- a quarter of a cup was all I needed. (Remember to always comparison shop when you purchase supplements in retail venues and online.)

The juice and gel can help with many health problems including:

Canker Sores
Crohns
Diabetes (can help manage)
Digestion (it's a great cleanser and detoxifier)
Heartburn
High Blood Pressure
Immunity
Irritable Bowel Syndrom
Sunburn
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcers
Weight loss (can help)

Personally, I wouldn't make my own juice from whole aloe plants, unless you know how to remove the aloin, but I have cut open a leaf and used the gel with success for skin troubles.

Remember to always research how to use supplements, and ask your health practitioner if aloe is right for you.  Since it is a potent medicinal plant, I would use it only as long as you are in the healing process, and not on a regular basis.