Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

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Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller), is a succulent with a rich history of use in traditional medicine across cultures, from ancient Egypt to Ayurveda. It thrives in warm, dry climates worldwide, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Its thick, fleshy leaves contain a clear gel packed with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants, making it a staple in skincare, cosmetics, and health supplements. Research suggests aloe vera may soothe skin conditions, aid digestion, improve oral health, and more, though some benefits need further study, and internal use carries risks.

What Is Aloe Vera?​

Aloe vera is a short-stemmed succulent that grows up to 2 feet tall, with thick, pointed leaves filled with a gel-like substance. This gel, along with the yellow latex just beneath the leaf’s skin, is used for both topical and internal applications. Aloe vera has been cultivated globally for its medicinal properties, documented as far back as ancient Egypt, where it was used for skin ailments and embalming. It’s valued for treating burns, wounds, and digestive issues. Today, aloe vera is a common ingredient in gels, creams, juices, and supplements, prized for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.

Image by Spencer Wing from Pixabay

Health Benefits of Aloe Vera​

Aloe vera offers a range of potential health benefits, supported by traditional use and varying levels of scientific evidence. Below are its primary benefits, with research insights where available:

1. Skin Health​

• Burns and Wounds: Aloe vera gel is a go-to remedy for sunburns, minor burns, and wounds. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness, itching, and pain while speeding healing. Clinical studies confirm it can shorten burn healing time by about 9 days compared to conventional treatments.
• Acne: Topical aloe vera, especially when combined with treatments like tretinoin, may reduce acne breakouts with fewer side effects than some conventional therapies. Two small studies support this use.
• Skin Aging: Aloe vera may improve skin elasticity, moisture, and collagen production, potentially slowing aging signs. A 2020 trial showed that 40 micrograms of Aloe sterol daily enhanced these skin health markers.
• Other Skin Conditions: Small studies suggest aloe vera may help with psoriasis, eczema, genital herpes, lichen planus, and skin damage from radiation therapy, though more research is needed.

2. Digestive Health​

• Constipation: Aloe vera latex, the yellow layer under the leaf’s skin, contains barbaloin, a laxative compound that increases intestinal water content to ease bowel movements. However, due to side effects like painful cramps, the FDA no longer considers it safe for over-the-counter laxative use.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Some research indicates aloe vera may relieve IBS symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain by balancing gut bacteria and reducing inflammation. A 2018 review of three studies with 151 participants showed significant improvement, but results are mixed, and larger studies are needed.
• Heartburn (GERD): Early studies suggest aloe vera may reduce esophageal inflammation and stomach acid, offering relief comparable to medications like ranitidine, with fewer side effects. More research is required to confirm this.

3. Oral Health​

• Dental Plaque and Gingivitis: Aloe vera in toothpaste or mouthwash reduces plaque and gingivitis, performing as well as chlorhexidine in studies involving children aged 8–14. It’s a natural alternative with fewer side effects.
• Mouth Ulcers: A 2022 review of nine randomized controlled trials found aloe vera gel accelerates healing of mouth ulcers and reduces pain compared to other treatments.
• Oral Mucositis: In cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, aloe vera may reduce the severity of oral mucositis (inflammation and ulceration), as shown in a 2024 double-blind trial.

4. Blood Sugar Management​

• Research suggests aloe vera may lower blood sugar in people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and supporting pancreatic cell function. However, study results are inconsistent, and high-quality human trials are needed to confirm efficacy.

5. Heart Health​

• Aloe vera may lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol by reducing intestinal cholesterol absorption. This could support heart health, but more robust studies are needed to verify these effects.

6. Other Potential Benefits​

• Immune System Support: Aloe vera’s vitamins C and E, along with antioxidants like flavonoids, may boost immunity by neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.
• Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Effects: Compounds like aloin and emodin provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, potentially aiding conditions like arthritis or infections, though human evidence is limited.
• Weight Management: A small study found that an oral aloe gel product modestly reduced weight and fat mass in adults with obesity or diabetes/prediabetes over 8 weeks, but further research is needed.

Nutritional Content of Aloe Vera (8 oz Pure Juice)​

Nutrient	Amount	Benefit
Vitamin C	Trace	Boosts immunity, fights free radicals
Vitamin E	Trace	Protects cells from damage
Calcium	74 mg	Supports bone health
Potassium	110 mg	Regulates blood pressure
Sodium	60 mg	Maintains fluid balance
Fiber	1 g	Promotes digestive health

Note on Evidence: While aloe vera’s topical benefits, especially for skin, are well-supported, many internal benefits (e.g., diabetes, heart health) rely on preliminary or mixed evidence. Consult a healthcare provider before using aloe vera for medicinal purposes.

Medicinal Uses of Aloe Vera​

Aloe vera has been used in traditional medicine for millennia, with applications including:

• Skin Treatments: Applied to burns, wounds, acne, eczema, and psoriasis for its soothing and healing properties.
• Digestive Remedies: Taken orally for constipation, IBS, and heartburn, though latex use is now discouraged due to safety concerns.
• Oral Health: Used in mouthwashes or gels for plaque, gingivitis, and ulcers.
• Immune Support: Consumed as juice or supplements to boost immunity and reduce inflammation.
• Pain and Inflammation: Applied topically or taken orally for arthritis or muscle pain in traditional practices.

Modern uses include commercial gels, creams, juices, and supplements, with topical applications being the most common and safest.

Preparation and Application​

Aloe vera is versatile and can be used in several ways:

• Topical Use:
  • Commercial Gels/Creams: Apply pure aloe vera gel to burns, wounds, acne, or as a moisturizer. Choose products without added chemicals or fragrances.
  • Fresh Gel: Cut a mature aloe leaf, split it open, and scoop out the clear gel for direct application to skin.
• Internal Use:
  • Juice: Use aloin-free commercial aloe vera juice or make your own (see recipe below). Typical doses are 30 ml daily, but consult a doctor.
  • Supplements: Available as capsules or tinctures (15–60 drops daily with water/juice), but medical guidance is essential.

Simple Recipe: Aloe Vera Juice​

This refreshing juice is a simple way to explore aloe vera’s potential digestive and immune benefits.
Ingredients (Serves 1):

• 1 fresh aloe vera leaf
• 1 cup water
• Optional: Lemon juice or honey for flavor

Instructions:

1. Select a mature aloe vera leaf and cut it close to the base.
2. Wash thoroughly to remove dirt or contaminants.
3. Trim the spiky edges and split the leaf lengthwise.
4. Scoop out the clear gel with a spoon, avoiding the yellow latex.
5. Blend the gel with water until smooth.
6. Strain to remove pulp, add lemon or honey if desired, and drink immediately.
7. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tip: Use only the clear gel, as the latex can cause digestive upset. Source leaves from pesticide-free plants.

Safety and Precautions​

Aloe vera is generally safe for topical use, but internal use requires caution due to potential risks:

• Oral Use Risks:
  • Aloe vera latex and non-decolorized whole-leaf extract can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and low potassium levels. High doses (1 g/day of latex) may lead to kidney damage or, in rare cases, death.
  • The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies non-decolorized whole-leaf extract as a possible carcinogen in humans.
• Contraindications:
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid oral aloe vera, as it may trigger uterine contractions or miscarriage and cause diarrhea in breastfed infants.
  • Children: Oral aloe vera is unsafe for children under 12 due to risks of severe side effects.
  • Medical Conditions: Avoid oral use if you have diabetes (due to blood sugar effects), nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, as it may worsen these conditions.
• Drug Interactions:
  • Aloe vera may interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), diabetes medications, digoxin, stimulant laxatives, and diuretics, potentially causing harmful effects. It may also reduce absorption of other drugs taken simultaneously.
• Allergies:
  • Some individuals may be allergic to aloe vera, particularly those sensitive to lily family plants (e.g., garlic, onions, tulips). Reactions include rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties.
• Sourcing:
  • Use aloin-free products for internal consumption to avoid laxative effects. Ensure plants are from clean, pesticide-free areas to prevent contamination.

Consult a healthcare provider before using aloe vera, especially internally or if you have health conditions or take medications. Start with small amounts to test tolerance.

Aloe vera's nutrient-rich gel and bioactive compounds make it a valuable natural remedy, particularly for topical use. However, internal use, especially of aloe latex or whole-leaf extract, carries significant risks, including digestive upset and potential carcinogenic effects.