Nature has a solution for acid reflux and stomach pain: aloe gel! This natural remedy has not only been proven to soothe gut inflammation, but it also promotes skin renewal and accelerates wound healing.

Understanding Aloe’s Components:

Aloe Gel

The gel is the soothing, inner part of the aloe leaf, rich in:

• Polysaccharides, promoting gut health and immune system support
• Demulcent properties, soothing and protecting mucous membranes

Aloe Latex

In between the gel and the outer leaf is a thin layer of a yellowish, liquid-like substance that contains anthraquinones (aloin), which has laxative effects, potentially irritating the gut. You want to drain and wash your aloe leaf (see instructions below) to remove the unwanted parts.

Why Choose Aloe Gel:

Gut Health

Soothes gut inflammation, immunomodulating, and protects the gut lining.

Aloe is particularly helpful for acid reflux (GERD), stomach pain, and gastritis.

Skin Care

Hydrates and soothes dry skin, reducing inflammation.

Wound Healing

Accelerates wound and burn recovery.

Using Aloe Gel:

Internal Uses:

• Add to smoothies or juices.
• Freeze in ice cube trays for future smoothies.
• Drink fresh aloe gel juice.

Topical Uses:

• Apply to wounds, burns, or dry skin.
• Use as a soothing after-sun gel.
• Apply to skin in the form of aloe popsicles (see below) to hydrate and moisturize.

Making Fresh Aloe Gel Juice:

Ingredients:

• 1 large fresh aloe leaf
• 1 cup water
• Optional: lemon juice or honey for taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the aloe leaf and cut down the sides to remove thorns.
2. Cut off the outer skin.
3. Cut the inner gel into one-inch cubes.
4. Soak the aloe gel cubes in water.
5. Blend with water until smooth.

Tips:

• Store fresh aloe gel juice in the fridge (3 days).
• A typical dose is 4 ounces daily. You can either take it preventatively before meals or as needed.
• If you do not want to make your own, I like Lakewood store-bought brand (available at Whole Foods). They do not use citric acid (a preservative that can commonly trigger stomach pain and/or GERD) in their aloe juices.
• I also like these frozen aloe bite-sized pieces. Great for smoothies. I get these in the frozen fruit section at Target.
• Avoid aloe latex, which has laxative effects. To ensure you do not get any latex, be sure to cut all of the green skin off of the inner aloe gel.

Aloe Popsicles:

1. Fill popsicle molds with aloe gel juice. Freeze.
2. You can enjoy these orally (to soothe the gut) or topically (to calm down inflammation and moisturize the skin).

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.