How Is Aloe Vera Useful In Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Research has shown that not only is Aloe Vera useful in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome, but due to its balancing effect on the immune system it is also very useful in creating an improved sense of well-being as well as reducing stress. Research work carried out over many years points conclusively to a toxic colon being the cause of a very wide range of minor to very serious illnesses.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) also known as Spastic Colon is now the most common digestive disorder seen by physicians. In IBS, the normal rhythmic muscular contractions of the digestive tract become irregular interfering with the normal movement of food and waste material. This leads to the accumulation of mucus and toxins in the intestine. This accumulation of material in turn sets up a partial obstruction of the digestive tract, trapping gas and stool. Symptoms include bloating, abdominal pain, gas constipation, distension, an urgency to have bowel movement and diarrhea.

It is claimed by a research team at a major British hospital, where Aloe Vera gel is undergoing clinical trials in the treatment of IBS. That as many as 12 million people in the U.K. suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Estimates also reveal that up to one third of the population will experience the symptoms of IBS at some time in their lives.

So how is Aloe Vera useful in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

An analysis of the contents of Aloe Vera gel shows it comprises a large variety of amino acids, enzymes, vitamins and minerals and it comes closer than any other known plant to the duplication of life's essential substances in the biochemistry of the human body. The natural healing and detoxifying powers of Aloe Vera work gently within the intestinal tract to help break down impacted food residues and thoroughly cleanse the bowel. Aloe Vera acts on the epithelial cells - the cells of the skin and inner cavities - these include the stomach, digestive tract, colon, bronchial tubes and blood vessels.

The anti-inflammatory activity of Aloe Vera gel is very helpful in repairing damage to the intestine, reducing inflammation, helping to repair damaged cells and creating favorable conditions for new cell growth. The cells of the intestines are the fastest growing cells in the body, they are replaced every 4 days on average so they have to be continually replenished to keep the barrier established.

Not only is Aloe Vera useful in repairing damage to the intestine it also provides the main fuel - the amino acid I-glutamine - needed for regeneration of the cells of the intestine, something which we do not get much of in our diet.

Also, long chain polysaccharides contained in Aloe Vera, line the gut and repair tiny "holes" that inevitably occur through bad eating habits, alcohol consumption, long-term use of antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or just wear and tear. These 'holes' can lead to what is known as "leaking gut syndrome" which is where unwanted substances and toxins are absorbed through the gut walls and into the blood stream causing havoc in the immune system. The skin is a reflection of the digestive system - so conditions such as Eczema or Psoriasis may develop as a result of an underlying problem in the digestive tract.

Aloe Vera's amphoteric properties mean that it can help ease constipation and prevent continuing diarrhea, setting a regularity to the bowel. This helps to reduce discomfort and bloating. Naturally, as these symptoms are eased, so the stress associated with the discomfort is also reduced. Because the intestine is such a highly complex multi-purpose organ with an important role in immunity against disease and allergy control, it is very important to keep it in tip top condition through a healthy diet. Supplementing this with regular consumption of Aloe Vera gel can help you soon achieve a feeling of well-being and maintain a high quality of life.