Indications
Aloe Vera is a plant whose clear inner leaf gel is widely used in skin and hair care products such as gels, creams, lotions and shampoos. It is traditionally used to soothe and moisturise dry or irritated skin and scalp, minor burns, sunburn and small scrapes. Aloe drinks and capsules are also sold as supplements. Scientific evidence for many uses is limited, and it is not a cure for any disease.
How It Works
Aloe gel is mostly water with natural sugars (polysaccharides), vitamins, enzymes and plant compounds. It forms a light film that helps the skin hold moisture and has a cooling, soothing feel. Some of its compounds may have mild anti-inflammatory effects. The yellow latex just under the leaf skin is different from the gel: it contains strong laxative substances called anthraquinones.
Dosage and Administration
For skin and hair products: apply to clean skin or scalp as directed on the label, usually once or twice a day, or use as a shampoo or conditioner and rinse. For oral products: take only as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, and do not use products containing aloe latex for long periods.
Interactions
Topical aloe has no known important interactions. Oral aloe, especially latex, can cause diarrhoea and potassium loss, which may increase the effects of Digoxin and of diuretics (water tablets) and corticosteroids that lower potassium. It may also lower blood sugar, so people taking diabetes medicines should take care, and it may reduce absorption of other oral medicines.
Contraindications
- Allergy to aloe or plants of the lily family, such as garlic, onion or tulip
- Oral aloe latex: bowel blockage, inflammatory bowel disease, appendicitis, unexplained tummy pain, and children under 12
- Oral aloe latex during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Side Effects
Applied to the skin, aloe is usually well tolerated; some people may get redness, itching, burning or a rash. Taken by mouth, it may cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea and, with long use, low potassium and harm to the kidneys or liver in rare cases.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, severe or bloody diarrhoea, muscle weakness or an irregular heartbeat, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Using aloe gel or aloe-containing shampoo on the skin or hair is generally considered acceptable. Do not take aloe by mouth, especially aloe latex, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may stimulate the womb and can pass into milk and upset the baby.
Precautions and Warnings
Test a small area of skin first if you have sensitive skin. Do not apply to deep wounds or serious burns; see a doctor for these. Keep shampoos out of the eyes. Choose products that state they are free of aloe latex if taking aloe by mouth, and stop if you get diarrhoea.
Overdose
Too much topical product is unlikely to cause harm beyond irritation. Large oral amounts may cause severe diarrhoea, dehydration and low potassium; seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal skin and hair care ingredient (emollient and soothing agent)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Keep the container closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.