Is aloe vera juice good for diverticulitis? How to use aloe vera to treat diverticulitis and the digestive system? How effective is it? What are the foods to avoid when you have diverticulitis? And finally what are the other natural remedies to treat diverticulitis?
I. What Is Diverticulitis and Diverticulosis?
Diverticulitis is a gastrointestinal complication that affects relatively old people.
It is characterized by the affection of the sigmoid colon (left and lower part of the colon) and by the infection and inflammation at this level of the diverticula (mucous hernias).
Diverticula are small pockets that appear on the wall of the colon.
Diverticulosis occurs when these diverticula form on the colon without any inflammation or symptoms.
When these pockets become infected and inflamed and present pain, it is called diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis is characterized by very important signs. The following symptoms can be observed when suffering from this pathology:
- Pain in the left and lower abdomen
- Bloating, diarrhea, or constipation
- Fever and nausea
To confirm the disease, you are suffering from, it is, once you have persistently experienced these symptoms, advisable to consult your doctor.
There are several causes of diverticulitis, but the most important factor is old age. The stagnation of fecal residue can cause the inflammation of the diverticula on a weakened and aged colon wall.
There are also a few other causes of diverticulitis:
- A diet low in fiber
- Lack of activity
- Consumption of tobacco and certain medications
II. Is Aloe Vera Juice Good for Diverticulitis
# Can Aloe Vera Juice Help Diverticulitis
Aloe vera is known for its benefits on the skin and hair but also has effects on internal application.
Having some pulp rich in water and nutrients, its consumption brings soothing in the intestinal transit and prevents several gastrointestinal diseases.
On the other hand, the aloe plant contains another substance called latex, rich in aloin which is a natural laxative and therefore useful in some cases for the intestines.
# Aloe Vera Juice Benefits for Diverticulitis
The first effect of aloe vera on the colon is to cleanse it. As mentioned at the beginning, diverticulitis is caused by the accumulation and stagnation of fecal residue in the lower part of this organ.
Consumption of aloe vera in an appropriate (edible) form cleanses the colon and prevents the formation of diverticulitis on its walls.
This action is due to the laxative capacities of the plant which stimulates the digestive transit to work well.
One of the causes of the accumulation of fecal matter above the rectum is a diet lacking in fiber and water.
Aloe vera is a plant that is 95% water and rich in fiber, so it helps to clear the stool and prevent it from accumulating at the bottom of the colon.
In an indirect way and due to this action, aloe vera saves you from diverticulitis and diverticulosis.
Finally, the consumption of aloe vera stimulates and helps the intestinal flora to grow and function well.
As a result, the acidity remains regulated at this level, which repels pathogens and gastrointestinal diseases.
a. Aloe Vera as Anti-inflammatory
The many benefits of aloe vera are no secret. In addition to relieving skin inflammations, it fights against joint inflammations (sprains, tendonitis) and digestive disorders.
In the case of burns, its refreshing effect quickly heals the pain. It treats irritated skin or skin prone to psoriasis, eczema, or herpes.
How to get the most out of it? Take a tablespoon of aloe juice, pure or diluted in water, every morning for 2 to 3 weeks to treat digestive problems.
In case of skin, muscle, or joint inflammations, apply a little aloe vera gel by massaging the affected area.
b. Aloe Vera as a Laxative
Aloe Vera is a powerful natural laxative characterized by an action on the wall of the colon that causes the contraction of muscles.
Thus, it brings an immediate response when used in the treatment of a slow transit or disorders of intestinal motility.
The use of aloe Vera in the form of juice or gel to treat constipation can cause painful cramps.
Moreover, ”aloin (present in the small prickles of the leaf) has a powerful laxative effect that can be very aggressive and therefore more irritating than beneficial.
c. Aloe Vera as a Prebiotic
Aloe Vera is a prebiotic. Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that enhance the function of beneficial bacteria that live in the human digestive system.
They are opposed to probiotics, which are the beneficial bacteria themselves. Probiotics are often used to treat chronic digestive problems, and aloe vera is often used in tandem with these probiotics to maintain a healthy digestive tract.
d) How Much Aloe Vera Juice to Drink for Diverticulitis
If you want to do a course of aloe vera juice, you should adjust the intake according to your tolerance level.
You can take a tablespoon and up to half a glass, 3 times a day, for 3 to 6 weeks, on an empty stomach or before meals (at least 15 minutes before).
# How to Use Aloe Vera to Treat Diverticulitis and Other Gastrointestinal Diseases
To treat gastrointestinal problems, especially diverticulitis, it is necessary to apply aloe vera internally.
To do this, it is necessary to choose a form that is suitable for this consumption, there are two forms: aloe vera juice and aloe vera gel.
Aloe vera gel is the most natural form and is not subject to any processing.
To facilitate its ingestion and to give it an edible aspect, the extracted pulp is mixed with honey and/or lemon.
The other form is the aloe vera juice which is processed and produced in specialized factories. For its consumption, the dose and the product’s prescriptions are followed.
# How Much Aloe Vera Juice to Drink for Diverticulitis
Drink 1 glass every morning on an empty stomach, if it is a little thick you can add 2 or 3 tablespoons of the juice made with this gel to half a glass of water.
You can take this remedy daily to treat diverticulitis.
III. Other Natural Remedies to Treat Diverticulitis
Although aloe vera is an almost irreplaceable remedy to cure gastrointestinal pathologies, there are other substances capable of playing the same role and having the same effectiveness. Here are some of them:
# Clay to Treat Diverticulitis
Clay is a natural substance that contains a multitude of benefits for human health, both internally and externally.
Its effects strengthen immunity, regenerate cells and accelerate healing. But in the case of diverticulitis, it is the anti-inflammatory aspect of clay that interests us.
The edible form is sold in pharmacies in powder form. To consume it, simply pour two spoonfuls into a glass of demineralized water and drink it.
Note that to get your body used to clay, you must drink only the water in the clay for the first few days, i.e. let the bulk of the clay fall to the bottom of your glass without consuming it.
But after a few days of familiarization of the body with the clay, you must drink your milk. This means: stirring the clay deposit at the bottom of the glass so that it mixes with the water and drinks it without leaving much in the glass.
After several days of applying the clay powder to the diverticulitis, the pain of the diverticulitis will be reduced.
In the long term, the pockets that form on the wall of the colon will normally disappear and you will be spared the problems of diverticulosis and diverticulitis.
# Effects of Charcoal on Diverticulitis
Charcoal is one of the most beneficial and medicinal natural substances.
It purifies the organism and stimulates the body’s natural defenses. It also compensates for renal insufficiency and lowers cholesterol.
On the other hand, and more effectively, charcoal calms gastrointestinal and digestive disorders.
The facilitation of digestion and its stimulation avoids the stagnation in the bottom of the rectum of the fecal residues.
Indirectly, the consumption of vegetable charcoal cures diverticulitis and prevents it.
Charcoal-based capsules are offered for a 21-day cure by consuming 1 capsule per day. Ingestion is accompanied by a considerable amount of water while fasting.
# Fasting and Diverticulitis
Fasting can be a miracle cure and prevention for many diseases and medical complications.
More and more doctors and nutritionists are recommending intermittent fasting in addition to a diet, which is very effective against certain pathologies, particularly gastrointestinal.
This type of fasting can be very effective against diverticulitis for the simple reason that the digestive tract, including the colon, is allowed to rest.
Abstaining from food for a few hours prevents the accumulation of fecal matter in the lower colon and allows the cells of the colon and the digestive system to regenerate.
Thus, mucous membrane hernias do not develop and diminish afterward.
# Thyme Tea and Diverticulitis
Thyme is a well-known medicinal plant, it acts against several pathological complications: colds, infections, immune deficiency, rheumatism, etc.
Like the previous substances, thyme tea is effective against digestive problems and consequently against diverticulitis.
The intake of thyme tea allows you to have good digestion and to bring hydration to the intestinal transit.
As explained above for each substance, the above-mentioned actions decrease the accumulation of stool in the lower part of the colon and therefore allow diverticulitis to disappear or at least decrease.
# Fiber to Treat Diverticulitis
In the case of sigmoid (colonic) diverticulosis, the diet must be varied and contain the right amount of fiber to prevent the inflammation associated with diverticulitis.
Increased fiber intake can stabilize the situation. In addition to facilitating stool expulsion, dietary fiber improves the balance of the intestinal flora.
Caution: Do not increase your fiber intake too quickly. It is recommended not to add more than 5 g of additional fiber per week.
# Does Apple Cider Vinegar Kill Diverticulitis?
Apple cider vinegar is enjoying a resurgence in popularity worldwide, as it is associated with a range of health benefits.
In the case of gastrointestinal disorders such as diverticulitis, apple cider vinegar can be particularly helpful.
It can help control intestinal bacterial balance through the antimicrobial effect of acetic acid.
# Is Honey Good for Diverticulitis?
For daily maintenance, 10-15 biologically active honey should be sufficient in most cases of diverticulitis.
It can be used freely because it is the lowest activity. Make sure your supplier has a third party test the activity of the honey and does not just claim it.
# Is Kefir Good for Diverticulitis?
Many beneficial bacteria live in the gut and contribute to intestinal and overall health.
Fermented foods, called “probiotics”, also contain these beneficial bacteria. Kefir, a drink made from fermented milk, is one such food.
Kefir can help prevent diverticular disease of the colon or large intestine, and it helps replenish your “good” bacteria after antibiotic treatment for diverticulitis.
# Probiotics for Diverticulitis
Pre- and probiotic foods can help fight gastric inflammation and reduce the risk of digestive disease by decreasing the permeability of the intestinal wall.
Some of the best natural sources of probiotics include yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, and tempeh.
Adding these foods to a balanced diet can help restore a healthy balance of gut microbes and reduce inflammation.
# Herbs for Diverticulitis (garlic, ginger, turmeric, etc.)
Some herbs have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and fighting infection. Here are some herbs that may be helpful for diverticulitis:
Garlic is a natural antibiotic and promotes digestion, so it is considered a good remedy for diverticular disease and diverticulitis.
The soothing effects of ginger on the intestine are the reason why it is highly recommended for the treatment of diverticular disease and diverticulitis.
The anti-inflammatory effect of turmeric can protect the digestive tract, increase the secretion of certain enzymes and relieve pain.
Green tea has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that can reduce inflammation and decrease the risk of infection.
# Digestive enzymes for Diverticulitis
Digestive enzymes are proteins produced by the stomach, small intestine, salivary glands, and pancreas.
They help break down food during digestion and eliminate toxins. The enzymes in papayas and pears are believed to help reduce intestinal inflammation and speed healing.
# Essentials Oil for Diverticulitis
While there is no evidence to support online claims that essential oils have an effect on diverticulitis, they can promote relaxation, relieve stress, and improve pain.
IV. Foods to Avoid When You Have Diverticulitis
For all diseases, especially gastrointestinal diseases, there is a list of foods and eating habits to be favored and others to be avoided.
Here are the vegetables, fruits, and other foods to limit:
- Dried and candied fruits
- Berries and red fruits
- Fruits: apples and pears with skin, plums, nectarines, kiwi, grapes
- Vegetables: cauliflower, turnip, corn, cucumber, pea, spinach, onion, lettuce
- Wheat-based foods that contain starch
- Yogurt with fruit
- Fatty meat
V. Drugs to Avoid with Diverticulitis
A few medications can promote diverticulitis and make it worse. They are called “diverticulotoxic”. These include:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs,
- Corticosteroids (oral, not cream),
- Anticoagulants,
- Antiplatelet agents. For example, taking aspirin increases the risk of complicated diverticulitis (with abscess).
When you have diverticulitis, you should avoid taking these medications and try to use paracetamol instead for headaches or pain.
VI. Aloe Vera Juice Side Effects?
Consumed in excess, Aloe Vera juice can cause side effects such as diarrhea and intestinal cramps.
Caution is advised in certain situations: As with any treatment, its consumption should be avoided in case of pregnancy or breastfeeding.
VII. Other Questions About Aloe Vera and Diverticulitis
1. Will Diverticulitis Go Away?
Yes, an uncomplicated attack of diverticulitis can disappear on its own. However, you should consult your doctor for a thorough evaluation of the condition.
Most attacks of uncomplicated diverticulitis are not life-threatening and usually disappear within a week.
Complicated diverticulitis requires medical attention because it can lead to serious complications.
2. What to Take for Diverticulitis Pain?
Antibiotic treatment (ciprofloxacin or metronidazole), a water diet (drinking plenty of fluids), a residue-free diet (foods that do not contain residue in the colon, i.e. no fiber), taking painkillers to relieve pain.
3. What Triggers Diverticulitis Flare-Ups?
Lifestyle remains the main culprit in diverticulitis flare-ups. A high-fat, low-fiber diet, common in Western countries, can exacerbate diverticulitis symptoms.
Lack of fiber in the diet can cause constipation and strain on the intestine. This can lead to the formation of small pockets in the colon (diverticulitis).
Foods high in sugar can trigger diverticulitis.
4. Who Should Not Take Aloe Vera Juice?
In general, drinking aloe vera juice is not recommended for anyone. This is especially true if you have an underlying medical condition, including diabetes, bleeding disorders, kidney problems, or gastrointestinal problems like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Similarly, if you are taking prescription medications, consuming aloe vera can be dangerous.
You should also avoid consuming aloe vera orally if you are pregnant (it could stimulate the uterus and cause preterm labor, but the topical application is considered safe during pregnancy).
In any case, even if you don’t check any of these boxes, use aloe vera with caution. Consult your doctor first.
5. Is It Good to Drink Aloe Vera Juice Every Day?
Excessive consumption of aloe vera juice can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
For this reason, it is recommended to drink a maximum of 2 glasses per day and never to consume this drink more than 7 days in a row.
6. What Does Poop Look Like with Diverticulitis?
Characteristics of diverticulitis stool Color: Stool may be bright red, burgundy, or black and tarry, indicating the presence of blood. The stool may contain more mucus than normal.
Odor: The stool may smell more foul than usual.
7. Is Bed Rest Good for Diverticulitis?
Mild diverticulitis infection can be treated with bed rest, stool softeners, a liquid diet, antibiotics to fight the infection, and possibly antispasmodics.
8. Does Soda Make Diverticulitis Worse?
No. Only water is essential for diverticulitis. Fruit juice, coffee, tea, milk drinks, and soft drinks can never replace water.
Useful Links:
In the Clinic: Acute Colonic Diverticulitis
Study says aggressive treatment for diverticulitis is often overused
