The Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice

While the effectiveness of using aloe vera gel as a therapeutic topical agent is widely known, the effects of ingesting it as a juice have not been studied in great detail. Some scientific and clinical studies have been done in recent years that suggest aloe vera juice can be an effective treatment for some digestive disorders.

Antioxidant Properties

A study by the UK-based Centre for Adult and Paediatric Gastroenterology on "The anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera gel in human colorectal mucosa in vitro" concluded that aloe vera gel may be therapeutic for inflammatory bowel disease.

The anti-diabetic activity of aloe vera juice was the subject of another study published in Phytomedicine, which concluded there is evidence that aloe vera improves blood glucose levels.

Detoxification & Cleansing

Most of the claims of aloe vera juice's effectiveness relate primarily to improved digestion and regularity, increased energy levels and disease prevention, which are thought to be the result of aloe vera juice's detoxification and cleansing properties.

Benefits of Ingesting

Aloe vera juice has been shown to improve oral health and hygiene. The plant's antioxidant properties help preserve the integrity of the mouth and gums, providing effective relief for cold sores and reducing the incidence of gingivitis and plaque, all according to dentaleconomics.com.

The plant juice is also believed to accelerate healing of minor burns, abrasions and skin irritations, with its ability to assist in cell regeneration and collagen formation. These qualities also provide an added anti-aging benefit.

And aloe vera juice has been shown to treat ulcers by detoxifying the body and cleansing the colon, helping the digestive tract work more efficiently.

Effects on Immune System

There is evidence that aloe vera juice strengthens the immune system and prevents illness by working as an antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agent.

It may help maintain energy levels and control weight by regulating blood sugar, and its cleansing properties eliminate substances in the body that cause lethargy and fatigue, which can affect body weight.

Aloe vera also contains a variety of nutritional elements responsible for producing healthy skin and countering the effects of aging.

Vitamins & Minerals

Aloe vera contains the minerals calcium, sodium, iron, potassium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc. It contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E, folic acid and niacin, which are not stored in the body and need to be supplemented through diet and nutrition.

Because of these properties, aloe vera can act as an anti-inflammatory agent. It contains 12 natural substances shown to inhibit inflammation without side effects and to support better joint and muscle mobility.

Additionally, aloe vera is a plentiful source of amino acids, containing 18 of the body's essential building blocks needed to replenish the body and aid in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

The cumulative effect of all these factors helps improve circulation and control blood pressure.

Minor Side Effects

There have been some reported side effects from taking aloe vera juice internally, including loss of electrolytes, intestinal cramps, fluid imbalance and turning the urine a pinkish color.

None of the effects are considered serious or life threatening. However, as with any substance that is ingested, it is important to monitor the body's response and discontinue use if there is a detectable reaction.

Most of these reported side effects were the result of consuming excessive amounts of aloe vera juice. A daily dose of between 2 to 4 oz. is recommended, to minimize side effects and obtain the best possible results.

Resources

• Aloe vera health benefits