Indications
Aloe indica (Indian aloe, known in Ayurveda as Ghritakumari) is a herbal ingredient from the leaves of the aloe plant. In Ayurvedic and Unani medicine it is traditionally used in preparations for digestive complaints such as indigestion, poor appetite and constipation, as a liver tonic, and in some women’s health and skin preparations. Scientific evidence for most of these uses is limited, and it should not be relied on to cure any disease.
How It Works
The leaf contains a clear inner gel and a yellow outer juice (latex). The gel contains sugars, plant compounds and minerals with soothing properties. The latex contains anthraquinones such as aloin, which stimulate the bowel and have a laxative effect. How a product works depends on which part of the leaf is used and how it is processed.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner. When part of a combination product, follow the dose for that product. Do not take more than directed, and do not use preparations containing the leaf latex for more than 1 to 2 weeks without advice.
Interactions
- Aloe latex can lower potassium, which may increase the risk of side effects with Digoxin, diuretics (water tablets) and steroids.
- Oral aloe may lower blood sugar; people on diabetes medicines such as Metformin, Glibenclamide or insulin should monitor sugar levels.
- It may speed gut transit and reduce absorption of other medicines; keep a 2 hour gap.
Contraindications
Do not use if allergic to aloe or plants of the lily family. Oral products containing aloe latex should not be used by people with bowel blockage, inflammatory bowel disease, unexplained stomach pain, kidney disease, by children under 12 years, or in pregnancy.
Side Effects
Oral use may cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea and, with long use, low potassium and weakness. Rare cases of liver irritation have been reported. Applied to the skin, it may occasionally cause redness or itching.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe stomach pain, bloody or severe diarrhoea, yellowing of the skin or eyes, irregular heartbeat, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Oral aloe products are not recommended during pregnancy, as they may stimulate the womb, or while breastfeeding, as they may cause diarrhoea in the baby. Ask a doctor before use.
Precautions and Warnings
- Use only short term and at the recommended dose.
- Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney, liver or heart disease.
- Stop 2 weeks before planned surgery because of possible effects on blood sugar.
- Follow the warnings of any combination product that contains aloe.
Overdose
Too much can cause severe cramps, watery diarrhoea, dehydration and low potassium. Get medical help straight away.
Therapeutic Class
Ayurvedic and Unani herbal ingredient (digestive and laxative herb).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.