CONSTIPATION.

Constipation is a major problem in Western societies as well as in other parts of the world. Through milleniums the human being has used multiple medications (including Aloe, Aloe Vera, Senna, Cascara Sagrada, which can be toxic to the colon mucosa and worsen constipation. Once the product is discontinued patients become worse presenting more constipation, bloated and sometimes with annoying abdominal distention.

Chronic constipation "cure" continues to remain an enigma. It seems that the cause is multifactorial and the only approach we have is symptomatic.

Constipation is not just a chronic problem of young people commonly labeled as "IBS"; it is also a symptom of more severe illnesses such as hypothyroidism, bowel blockage, colon cancer, etc. Therefore, we need to evaluate the patient thoroughly before telling patients that they have "IBS".

The work up for constipation varies depending upon patients age and severity of the symptoms

The treatment of constipation can be very challenging due to the many over-the-counter drug companies who call their products "natural". "Natural" is not synonymus of "Healthy"; however, these unscrupulous companies claim patients can take these drugs safely as daily "supplements". This is a very sad situation since desperate patients will look for a "cure" for their illness and what the find is a product that will perpetuate the very thing the wish to get rid of.

ALOE (Aloe vera)                   

Since ancient times the human being have used anthraquinone medications to treta constipation. Anthraquinones (anthracene -a triple benzene ring- skeleton) are drugs found in some plants and cause diarrhea. They stain the lining of the colon black and may damage the nerve plexuses of the colon. 

Dried latex from the inner lining of the leaf has traditionally been used as an oral laxative.

There is strong scientific evidence in support of the laxative properties of aloe latex, based on the well-established cathartic properties of anthroquinone glycosides (Such as SENNA, CASCARA, Dulcolax, Ex-Lax, Correctol, etc.)  found in aloe latex .

The therapeutic value of Aloe in chronic constipation remains unclear, Aloe can worsen constipation in the long run. This is why we do not recommend it.

 The use of aloe or aloe latex by mouth for laxative effects can cause cramping or diarrhea. Use for over seven days may cause dependency or worsening of constipation after the aloe is stopped. Ingestion of aloe for over one year has been reported to increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Individuals with severe abdominal pain, appendicitis, ileus (temporary paralysis of the bowel), or a prolonged period without bowel movements should not take aloe. There is a report of hepatitis (liver inflammation) with the use of oral aloe.