The Aloe Vera Plant Usage Throughout Human History
It has be known throughout history that the ALOE VERA PLANT contains ingredients that beneficial for human health.
Many cultures that existed in the past were well aware of this. They used the plant for healing wounds inflicted in battle and revitalizing the skin. The plant was even considered as valuable as some of the most expensive spices by many of these cultures. Today more and more people are becoming aware of the aloe vera plants value. The cosmetics industry uses the ingredients of this plant in many of its products. It is also widely used in many products sold in the alternative health industry.
Ancient Egypt
As far back as the days of the pharaoh's the people of Ancient Egypt were aware of its health benefits. It is said that Egyptian queens Nefertiti and Cleopatra used the ingredients of the plant to revitalize their skin. It was also common practice to use the ingredients of the plant for embalming a dead body because of its anti-bacterial and anti-fungi qualities. It was thought that including the ingredients of the aloe vera plant in the cloth used to wrap a dead body would stop the body from decomposing. This was also thought to ensure that the person would achieve physical and spiritual everlasting life. Consequently the aloe plant was known as the "plant of eternity" by the ancient Egyptian culture of that time period.
Ancient Greeks
The value of the aloe vera plant was also known to the Ancient Greeks. Alexander The Great was apparently persuaded by Aristotle to invade the Island of Socotra to capture its abundant supply of aloe vera plants. These plants were to be used in healing the wounds of Alexander's huge army. Alexander would have these plants transported by carts to meet with his troops who were involved in various campaigns of war.
The Nation of Israel
The Israelites from the time of King Solomon to when Jesus walked the Earth were well aware of the value of the aloe plant. The plant is mentioned in a number scriptures contained in the Bible. Numbers 24:6, Song of Solomon 4:14, Psalm 45:8, Proverbs 7:17 and John 19: 38-40 all make reference to it. Perhaps the Israelites learned of the benefits of the aloe plant during their captivity in Egypt.
During the rise of modern medicine the knowledge of the aloe vera plant started to dwindle in the mainstream of civilization. Recently there has been an increased awareness about the plant and its many health benefits. This can be seen by the many health care products that are available on store shelves that contain it as an ingredient. It is likely more and more people will continue to become aware of its value, especially with medical costs continuing to rise.
Today the ingredients of the ALOE VERA PLANT is being used for many health issues. One of the health issues is ACID REFLUX.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux disease, also known as gastro-esophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs due to the coexistence of two medical conditions. The first acid reflux disease contributing condition is a retrograde flow of stomach contents into the esophagus. However, the reflux itself does not necessarily lead to gastro-esophageal reflux disease symptoms or histologic changes, and can occur among healthy individuals as well. In this case, the process is referred to as "physiologic gastroesophageal reflux".
The second acid reflux disease predisposing condition is a lower esophageal sphincter (LES) malfunction. The LES is a 3-cm to 4-cm ring of muscle, which is two to three times thicker than the proximal esophagus and acts as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach. In the case of acid reflux disease, the LES does not close perfectly and stomach contents splashes up into the esophagus. When pathologic symptoms follow this process, the whole condition is called acid reflux disease.
Untreated ACID REFLUX DISEASE Can Lead To Serious Health Complications
Those include stricture formation, bleeding, ulcers and esophageal spasms. When the stomach acid reaches the upper esophagus and trachea, the process can result in a variety of severe conditions, such as asthma, sinusitis and pneumonia. Finally, some people may develop Barrett's esophagus, a condition that manifest in an abnormal shape and color of cells in the esophageal lining. This condition is a precursor to esophageal cancer, especially in adults over 60 years old. The treatment of gastro-esophageal reflux disease takes three forms: surgery, medical therapy and holistic therapy, including dietary and lifestyle changes and the intake of specific herbal supplements. An undergoing surgery should be considered very carefully, since it can compound some underlying conditions, such as stricture and motility disorders. Medical treatment of GERD includes PPIs and H2 blockers. While acid reflux can be treated by taking prescription medications or acid blockers such as the above, bear in mind that the results may be temporary and that some conventional medications can cause serious side effects.
From a holistic point of view, acid reflux disease is considered a warning sign of a major internal imbalance that needs to be properly addressed. Therefore, alternative remedies, such as homeopathic remedies, herbal remedies, lifestyle changes as part of a complete holistic regimen are strongly recommended for acid reflux sufferers.
Can The Ingredients of The Aloe Vera Plant Cure The Problem of ACID REFLUX?
Recent research suggests that decolorized and purified aloe vera juice may be a safe and effective treatment for reducing reflux symptoms. The 2015 study found that the juice effectively reduced the symptoms of acid reflux as well as certain traditional medication without any reported side effects.
Other Acid Reflux Treatment Options
Traditionally, ACID REFLUX is treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications that either block stomach acid or reduce the amount of acid your stomach will produce. OTC options include:
- Antacids, such as Tums
- H2 receptor blockers, such as famotidine (Pepcid)
- Proton pump inhibitors, such a omeprazole (Prilosec)
In some severe cases, acid reflux can be treated with surgery.
