Aloe for acid reflux: you've seen aloe juice at the health food store, now learn how it helps heal acid reflux, also called heartburn

Better Nutrition, April, 2007 by Emily A. Kane

Aloe vera, a succulent cactus-like plant, is famous for its remarkable ability to cool a burn, but its soothing powers can also douse the internal flames that cause heartburn. In fact aloe juice may be the best treatment for heartburn. But first, here's why this herb deserves a top spot on your supplement list.

Aloe's Secret Ingredients The healing aspects of aloe come from the herb's ingredients, including enzymes, amino acids, minerals and a sugar called glucomannan, the latter of which is available at health food stores in capsules and liquids.

A long-chain sugar molecule composed of glucose and mannose, glucomannan is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral actions in humans. Researchers suspect the compound interferes with virus replication and/or alters a process involved in the development of infection. Researchers at Tokyo Women's Medical College have shown that certain proteins in aloe gel may stimulate the production of killer cells, which are naturally occurring white blood cells that defend against bacteria and other immune system threats.

How to Use Aloe for Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, also called heartburn and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), has become common, even among young people. In many cases, GERD occurs when the one-way valve at the bottom of the esophagus (called the lower esophageal sphincter) becomes pinched open, allowing food and stomach acid to travel back up into the esophagus. The result is a burning pain, especially noticeable when you bend over or lie down.

Chronic antacid use (including prescription acid-blocking drugs) can compound the problem: Stomach acid is important for proper digestion and immune function, but antacid use can suppress and/or interfere with this normal process.

The solution for GERD is to heal your lower esophageal sphincter using aloe and a few lifestyle changes. Take 1/4 cup of aloe vera juice (not gel) 10 minutes before each meal. Continue for up to six weeks, depending on the severity of your problem. The juice not only soothes mucous membranes, but also acts as a healing agent for the lower esophageal sphincter.

OTHER USES FOR ALOE

Studies of aloe indicate that it may be useful for providing general immune support and treating the following conditions:

* Type 2 diabetes

* Ulcerative colitis

* Kidney stones

* Asthma

* Stomach ulcers

* Constipation

PLANT POWER

Do you have an aloe plant collecting dust on your plant stand? Not sure now to benefit from it's healing powers?

Keep aloe plants in or near the kitchen for fast burn relief. Break off a Piece and apply the gel. Running cold water over burns before applying aloe gel may help. Do not apply aloe to burns that require medical care Aloe gel is useful for treating bedsore and diabetic ulcers, and is effective for sunburns.

IMPORTANT TIP: Do not consume aloe gel from the plant. It contains a bitter compound that can cause diarrhea. These laxative properties are removed from commercial gels.

By Emily A. Kane, ND, LAc