Indications
Aloe barbadensis, better known as Aloe vera, is a succulent plant whose clear inner leaf gel is used in herbal and Ayurvedic preparations. Taken by mouth as a juice or gel, it is traditionally used to support digestion, ease mild acidity and help with occasional constipation. Applied to the skin, the gel is traditionally used to soothe minor burns, sunburn, dryness and small skin irritations. Scientific evidence for many of these uses is limited.
How It Works
The inner gel contains water, sugars called polysaccharides, vitamins, minerals and plant compounds that are thought to have soothing, moisturising and mild anti-inflammatory effects. When the preparation also contains the yellow latex found just under the leaf skin, compounds called anthraquinones stimulate the bowel and have a laxative effect.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner. Oral juice or gel products are usually taken once or twice daily, often before meals, for a short period. For skin use, apply a thin layer to clean skin up to a few times a day. Do not take larger amounts than the label states.
Interactions
- Aloe taken by mouth, especially products containing latex, may lower potassium and can increase the risk of side effects with Digoxin, diuretics (water tablets) and corticosteroids.
- It may lower blood sugar, so people taking medicines for diabetes should monitor their sugar levels.
- It may reduce the absorption of other medicines taken at the same time; keep a gap of about 2 hours.
- Tell your doctor about all herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to Aloe or to plants of the lily family (such as onion and garlic).
- Oral use in intestinal blockage, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), appendicitis or unexplained stomach pain.
- Oral use in children under 12 years unless advised by a doctor.
Side Effects
Oral use may cause stomach cramps, loose stools or diarrhoea, especially with products containing latex. Long use can lead to loss of fluid and potassium. On the skin, redness, itching or a rash can occur in sensitive people.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe diarrhoea, signs of dehydration, muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Oral Aloe products should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as the laxative compounds may stimulate the womb and may pass into breast milk. Skin use on small areas is generally considered acceptable, but ask your doctor first.
Precautions and Warnings
- Use oral products for short periods only unless advised otherwise.
- Stop use and see a doctor if constipation or digestive symptoms continue for more than a week.
- People with kidney disease, heart disease or diabetes should consult a doctor before oral use.
- Do not apply to deep wounds or severe burns.
Overdose
Taking too much by mouth can cause severe diarrhoea, stomach pain, dehydration and low potassium. If a large amount has been taken, seek medical advice promptly.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal (Ayurvedic) preparation; digestive aid and skin soother.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed and follow any refrigeration advice on the label after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.