Indications
Aloe here refers to the dried yellow juice (latex) of the Aloe plant, known in Unani and Ayurvedic medicine as Sibr or Musabbar. It is traditionally used as a strong laxative for short term relief of constipation and is an ingredient of several Unani compound preparations for digestion and piles. Because it is a powerful purgative, it is now used less often and scientific evidence for its other traditional uses is limited.
How It Works
Aloe latex contains compounds called anthraquinone glycosides, mainly aloin. Bacteria in the large bowel convert them into active forms that irritate the bowel lining, increase bowel movements and draw water into the stool, which makes it softer. The effect usually appears 6 to 12 hours after a dose.
Dosage and Administration
Use only as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner. It is usually taken at bedtime as part of a compound preparation. Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest time, normally no more than 1 to 2 weeks without medical advice. Drink plenty of water.
Interactions
- Loss of potassium caused by Aloe can increase the effects and toxicity of Digoxin and some heart rhythm medicines.
- Risk of low potassium is higher with diuretics (water tablets), corticosteroids and Liquorice root.
- It may reduce absorption of other medicines taken at the same time.
- It may lower blood sugar; people taking medicines for diabetes should monitor their levels.
Contraindications
- Intestinal blockage, bowel narrowing, appendicitis or unexplained stomach pain.
- Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Severe dehydration or low potassium.
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding and children under 12 years.
- Known allergy to Aloe.
Side Effects
Stomach cramps and pain, diarrhoea, nausea and red or brown coloured urine may occur. Long term use can cause loss of fluid and salts, low potassium, muscle weakness, dependence on laxatives and a harmless darkening of the bowel lining.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe or bloody diarrhoea, severe stomach pain, signs of dehydration such as dizziness and very little urine, irregular heartbeat or marked muscle weakness.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy, as it may stimulate the womb. Do not use while breastfeeding, as active substances may pass into breast milk and cause diarrhoea in the baby.
Precautions and Warnings
- Not for long term use; regular use can weaken normal bowel function.
- See a doctor if constipation lasts more than a week or comes with weight loss, blood in the stool or a change in bowel habit.
- Take extra care in elderly people and in kidney or heart disease.
- Increase fibre and fluid in the diet as the first step for constipation.
Overdose
Overdose can cause severe diarrhoea with cramps, dehydration, loss of potassium and other salts, and in serious cases kidney problems. Seek medical help promptly; treatment is supportive with fluids and salt replacement.
Therapeutic Class
Unani and Ayurvedic herbal preparation; stimulant laxative.
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.