| ≥1 piece |
Aloes is taken internally as a purgative, acting on the lower bower. it may be used in atonic constipation although overdosage can result in diarrhoea, gastritis and nephritis. To avoid griping, it should be taken in conjunction with carminative and antispasmodic herbs. It is the 1.8-dihydroxyanthracene derivatives such as barbaloin which have a laxative effect, As glycosides They are not absorbed in the supper gut but break down to the active aglycone in the colon and rectum. Laxatives containing anthranoids induce active secretion of water and electrolytes into the lumen of the gut and inhibit the absorption of electrolytes and water by the colon. The increased volume of contents of the colon activateds peristalsis.