Aloe Vera, a medicinal herb native to Africa, was one of the most widely
prescribed medicines of the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it is one of the
most commonly used plants in the US. It can be used in several forms, from
fresh, raw juice to manufactured extracts. Aloe is used for a wide range of
health problems, such as ulcers, constipation, Diabetes, inflammatory bowel
disorders, etc. Does it help PKD?
About PKD
PKD is a genetic disorder that causes multiple cysts to form in the kidneys.
Polycystic kidneys become very large, present a bumpy surface and contain many
fluid-filled cysts. In the early stage, there are often no symptoms. As the
disease progresses slowly, symptoms include back or side pain, headaches,
hypertension (high blood pressure), urinary tract infections, blood in urine,
liver and pancreatic cysts, etc. There is no cure and available treatments can
take effect to shrink the cysts and prevent further progressing.
How Aloe works
The plant produces two compounds. Aloe latex, a bitter yellow juice, is
formed below the leaf's skin; and, the clear aloe gel can be found in the inner
part of the leaf.
Chemicals known as anthraquinone glycosides that are strong laxatives are
contained in the juice. The active substances in the gel are glycoproteins and
polysaccharides which take effect to block pain and inflammation, repair tissue
and boost the immune system.
So, this herbal plant has certain beneficial effects to patients with PKD.
However, if patients are considering to use this plant medicinally, they should
consult with the doctor. If aloe is combines with certain medicines, and herbal
or dietary supplements, some harmful side effects can be caused.
We suggest people with PKD finding a more safe and standard therapy to
prevent the development of the disease by shrinking the enlarged cysts and
restoring the kidney function. By doing this, PKD will never relapse.
