How to use aloe vera for heartburn?

Are you tired of popping antacids like candy every time you have heartburn or acid reflux? Look no further than aloe vera, the wonder plant that has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties. In this article, we’ll show you how to use aloe vera for heartburn relief and give you some tips and tricks so that you can say goodbye to those nasty symptoms once and for all.

What Causes Heartburn?

Before diving into our aloe vera remedies, let’s first understand what causes heartburn. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach), causing a burning sensation in your chest. This can be caused by various factors such as:

  • Eating acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus fruits
  • Consuming spicy foods
  • Overeating or eating too quickly
  • Drinking alcohol or carbonated beverages
  • Being overweight or pregnant

Fun fact: Did you know that even stress can cause heartburn? That’s right! When we are stressed out, our bodies produce more stomach acid which can lead to discomfort.

Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is often referred to as the ‘plant of immortality’ due to its numerous health benefits. The gel found inside the leaves contains anti-inflammatory compounds called anthraquinones which help soothe inflammation in the digestive system. Additionally, it is rich in vitamins C and E, both known antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Here are some other benefits of using aloe vera for heartburn relief:

  1. It helps reduce acidity levels in the stomach.
  2. Aids digestion by promoting healthy bowel movements.
  3. Has antibacterial properties which help prevent infections in the gut.
  4. May lower blood sugar levels over time if consumed regularly.

Ways to Use Aloe Vera for Heartburn Relief

Now that we know how aloe vera can benefit our digestive system let’s explore ways to use this plant for heartburn relief.

1. Drinking Aloe Vera Juice

The most common way to consume aloe vera is by drinking the juice form. It is widely available in stores, or you can extract it from fresh leaves of the plant (if you own one). Here’s how to make your homemade version:

  • Take an aloe vera leaf.
  • Cut off about 3 inches (7.5 cm) of the bottom part while making sure not to cut too deep.
  • Wash and dry thoroughly, then peel away the green outer layer using a sharp knife.
  • Extract the clear gel-like substance inside with a spoon, making sure not to include any yellowish parts underneath as they contain latex which might cause irritation and diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.
  • Place it into blender along with water or fruit juice like pineapple/ apple juice / peach nectar etc., blend together until smooth.

Enjoy your soothing drink immediately!

Keep in mind that too much consumption of Aloe juice can be harmful causing laxative effect on many people .It’s recommended not to exceed two ounces per day

Pro Tip: Add honey, ginger root extract or any other natural sweetener for additional flavor.

2. Applying Aloe Vera Topically

Another way to get relief from acid reflux symptoms through applying pure fresh extracted gel directly over throat/sternum/chest area once have feeling burning sensation .
it helps soothe skin around these areas due its cooling properties , promoting quick healing time

To apply:

  1. Extract some fresh gel from an aloe leaf and rub it onto your chest/throat/sternum area after cleaning skin surface properly
  2. Leave on for at least 15 minutes before rinsing off gently under lukewarm water.

Caution: Always patch test on your skin first to see if you have an allergic reaction.

3. Incorporating Aloe Vera into Smoothies/Cuisine

One of the easiest ways to incorporate aloe vera is by adding it into smoothies or meals.

To include in smoothie, blend together: (makes two servings)

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk/coconut milk/yogurt/etc.
  • Half fresh pineapple (cut and diced) or any other desired fruit
  • Two heaping tablespoons fresh aloe gel extract
  • Ice cubes(optional)

Fun Fact: An interesting beverage made with blending mint, apples ,aloe juice/crystals and water can be great solution for reflux symptoms .

You can also add freshly cut aloe vera leaves as garnish/side salad topping/chutney etc.,

Pro Tip: Keep extras in ice cube trays in freezer for instant use!

Precautions When Using Aloe Vera

While generally considered safe when used correctly, there are some precautions to take when using aloe vera:

  1. Do not ingest yellow parts underneath outer layer/skin – they are known irritants that can cause diarrhea and vomiting.

  2. Always rinse well before usage so any bacteria/dirt left during extraction would be removed properly making it clean enough

  3. Overuse of oral intake might cause laxative effects for many people due its digestive promoting properties.

4.Do not apply if have open wound/scratch/scrape/infection since application could lead further complications/causing stinging sensation.

Conclusion

So there you go! Now that you know how to use aloe vera for heartburn relief let’s get brewing up those juices & smooothies . But always remember to consult medical professional too instead of only relying on home remedies.. Even though these natural cures come handy but precaution & moderation must be taken seriously rather than treating them like snake oils. Trust us , relief is possible with fair bit of patience and aloe-love.

“We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone”- Ronald Reagan

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