Some research evidence suggests that juice from the aloe vera plant may help with soothing acid reflux. That said, it may not be the right remedy for everyone as it can cause some side effects.

Aloe vera is a succulent plant often found in tropical climates. Its use has been recorded as far back as Egyptian times. Aloe has been used topically and orally.

Aloe juice is derived from the inner lining of the plant’s leaves. It’s often used in cosmetics and can be found in everything from fragrances to moisturizers.

Aloe vera gel is found when you break open the leaves. It’s widely recognized as a home remedy for minor scrapes and burns.

Read on to learn what the research says about using aloe vera to relieve acid reflux, which can be a symptom of conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties. This is why it’s often used to treat sunburns or other minor irritations.

Aloe vera juice is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Because of this, the juice is said to detoxify the body when taken internally. It may boost digestion and eliminate waste.

Research suggests that consuming aloe vera juice may help digestion and reduce symptoms of gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux by calming inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract.

Older research cited in a 2018 review suggests that aloe vera may have a comparable effect on GERD symptoms to certain medications. That said, more study is needed to verify the benefits of aloe vera in this space.

Aloe vera juice may also help:

  • lower cholesterol
  • reduce blood sugar levels
  • promote hair growth
  • rejuvenate skin

Learn more: 9 healthy benefits of drinking aloe vera juice.

Most people can ingest decolorized and purified aloe vera juice without experiencing any side effects. Other forms of aloe vera juice may not be as well-tolerated by your body.

For example, non-decolorized aloe vera juice can cause diarrhea. This is because the juice contains anthraquinone, which is a potent laxative and intestinal irritant. This irritant may lead to intestinal cancers or tumors.

Though some research has suggested that aloe vera might be toxic to the liver, other research has not found this harmful effect.

Pregnant people shouldn’t drink aloe vera juice. The juice may induce miscarriage. You also shouldn’t drink aloe vera juice if you’re taking diuretics or laxatives.

In general, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor before trying aloe vera juice for acid reflux.

If you’re interested in adding aloe vera juice to your acid reflux treatment regimen, you should talk with your doctor. They can help you decide whether this is the best treatment for you.

If you decide to try this treatment, remember that only decolorized and purified aloe vera juice is recommended for consumption.

To determine if it causes any adverse side effects, begin with one 2-tablespoon (tbsp) dose per day as long as it is in the range of 50 milligrams (mg) a day, which is the amount that has been researched as safe by several older studies.

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 as omeprazole (Prilosec)

In some severe cases, acid reflux can be treated with surgery.

Learn more: 8 home remedies for acid reflux/GERD and 14 ways to prevent heartburn and acid reflux (GERD).

What juice is good for acid reflux?

Other beverages that might help relieve acid reflux include:

  • certain types of herbal tea
  • low fat, skim, or plant-based milk
  • other juices like carrots, cabbage, or any vegetables or fruit that are less acidic, such as beets or pears.

Learn more: What to drink for acid reflux.

Aloe vera is a succulent plant commonly found in tropical regions with various medicinal properties. People have used it historically as a remedy, both topically and orally.

Aloe vera juice is extracted from the inner layer of the plant’s leaves and is a popular ingredient in various cosmetics. Breaking open the leaves also reveals a gel, which is often used as a natural remedy for minor cuts and burns.

While some studies suggest that drinking aloe vera juice may help with acid reflux, it may not be suitable for everyone due to some potential side effects.