Aloe Vera

Effects and Benefits

Core Identification

Common Names:
- Aloe vera
- Aloe
- True aloe
- Barbados aloe
- Medicine plant
- Burn plant
- First aid plant

Latin Name: Aloe vera (syn. Aloe barbadensis)

Category: Herb

Uses

Traditional Uses

• Wound healing and skin care - Ancient Egypt, used by Cleopatra as a beauty treatment; also used in embalming
• Burns, cuts, and skin trauma - Traditional use across many cultures, thousands of years
• Digestive support and stomach ulcers - Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine
• Constipation relief (bitter aloes) - Arabian medicine, 6th century BCE onward
• Menstrual cycle regulation - Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine
• Embalming and funeral rites - Ancient Egypt, mixed with myrrh

Modern Uses

• Burns and wound healing | Research quality: Strong
• Key findings: Extensive research since the 1930s has shown the clear gel has a dramatic ability to heal wounds, ulcers, and burns. Clinical studies confirm burns and cuts treated with aloe vera gel heal as much as six days faster than those treated with unmedicated dressings or chemical antiseptic gels. One study found wounds healed up to 9 days faster than placebo. The gel puts a protective coat on affected areas, speeds healing by increasing oxygen carried by blood to cells, and stimulates production of new tissue.

• Source citations: Chevallier - Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine; Balch - Prescription for Herbal Healing; Hobbs - Grow It, Heal It

• Sunburn and radiation burns | Research quality: Moderate

• Key findings: Scientific interest began in the 1930s when aloe was reported to relieve skin inflammation from radiation damage. Studies show benefit for radiation-induced skin toxicity. The gel contains a natural sunscreen that blocks 20-30% of ultraviolet rays. Mixing aloe with a mild soap reduced skin rash and redness in women who received high-dose radiation therapy for breast conditions.

• Source citations: Gladstar - Medicinal Herbs; Simon - The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook; Balch - Prescription for Herbal Healing

• Psoriasis | Research quality: Moderate

• Key findings: Aloe cream has been used successfully for psoriasis treatment. In a Swedish study, more than 80% of patients reported substantial benefit. Also helpful for eczema, acne, and seborrheic dermatitis.

• Source citations: Simon - The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook; DK - Herbal Remedies

• Digestive conditions (IBS, peptic ulcers, colitis) | Research quality: Moderate (mixed evidence for IBS)

• Key findings: The inner gel is one of the most healing, soothing remedies for digestive irritation and inflammation. Research shows drinking high-potency aloe vera juice helps with inflammatory bowel conditions such as IBS, colitis, and diverticulitis. The soothing gel contains chemical components effective in reducing stomach acid and treating peptic ulcers. By soothing and protecting the gut lining, it is beneficial for inflammatory bowel disease. Note: NICE guidelines (UK) state aloe should not be offered as a treatment for IBS due to potential electrolyte disturbances—evidence is mixed.

• Source citations: Gladstar - Medicinal Herbs; Breverton - Complete Herbal; McIntyre - The Complete Herbal Tutor; Gazzola - IBS

• Constipation (aloe bitters/latex) | Research quality: Strong

• Key findings: Aloe bitters are a fast and effective laxative used widely outside the United States. When compared with other herbal stimulant laxatives such as cascara sagrada or senna, aloe draws less fluid into the large intestine from the rest of the body. The laxative action derives from aloin (bitter constituents) found in the outer sheath of the leaf.

• Source citations: Gladstar - Medicinal Herbs; Balch - Prescription for Herbal Healing; Chevallier - Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine

• Skin conditions (acne, eczema, dermatitis) | Research quality: Moderate

• Key findings: The gel is useful for almost any skin condition that needs soothing and astringing. Effective for acne when taken orally or applied topically. When combined with Ocimum gratissimum oil and given topically, products performed significantly better than placebo. Also beneficial for dermatitis, nappy rash, nettle rash, and shingles.

• Source citations: Balch - Prescription for Herbal Healing; DK - Herbal Remedies; Chevallier - Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine

• Frostbite | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Studies demonstrated aloe's ability to limit permanent damage from frostbite and speed recovery.

• Source citations: Simon - The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook; Hobbs - Grow It, Heal It

• Blood sugar regulation | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Preliminary research suggests aloe gel might lower blood glucose levels. May have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs. Has shown promise for aiding glycemic control in diabetics.

• Source citations: WRCHM - Herb-Drug-Nutrient Interaction; Hobbs - Grow It, Heal It

• Arthritis and inflammation (including rheumatoid arthritis) | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Aloe is a well-known remedy for arthritic pain and bursitis, whether taken internally or applied externally as a liniment. It effectively cools heat and soothes inflammation, not only easing pain but also helping heal the underlying cause. Contains sterols with anti-inflammatory action. Specifically reported helpful for rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune) when taken internally.

• Source citations: Gladstar - Medicinal Herbs; McIntyre - The Complete Herbal Tutor; Brewer - Encyclopedia of Vitamins

• Immune support | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Aloe vera sap activates macrophages, the immune cells that fight bacterial infection. Acemannan, a component of aloe, enhances immunity and stimulates the activity of B- and T-lymphocytes. Studies indicate it is a general tonic for the immune system.

• Source citations: Balch - Prescription for Herbal Healing; McIntyre - The Complete Herbal Tutor; Breverton - Complete Herbal

• Herpes simplex and zoster | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Aloe has demonstrated antiviral action and can be used topically for herpes simplex and zoster (shingles). The gel can significantly improve herpes outbreaks.

• Source citations: McIntyre - The Complete Herbal Tutor; Lopez - Medicinal Plants at Home

• Cholesterol | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Has shown promise for reducing high cholesterol levels.

• Source citations: Hobbs - Grow It, Heal It

• Chronic asthma | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Oral administration of aloe extract for 6 months demonstrated benefit in patients with chronic asthma. One third of 33 patients were regarded as effectively treated based on patients' impressions and physicians' observations. Note: Aloe was not beneficial for patients who had previously been administered steroid drugs.

• Source citations: Bone - A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs

• Chronic fatigue syndrome | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Aloe vera juice taken internally appears to boost immunity and is reported helpful for people with chronic fatigue syndrome.

• Source citations: Brewer - Encyclopedia of Vitamins

• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Aloe is helpful for treating gum disease when applied as a dental paste. Also beneficial for gum inflammation, mouth sores, and trauma after dental work. Some dentists use it to help flush mercury from the body during planned mercury amalgam removal.

• Source citations: Brewer - Encyclopedia of Vitamins; Hobbs - Grow It, Heal It

• Mouth ulcers (aphthous stomatitis) | Research quality: Moderate

• Key findings: Patients with recurrent mouth ulcers (canker sores) treated with acemannan hydrogel showed significant reduction in healing time compared to an active over-the-counter preparation.

• Source citations: Bone - A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs

• Interstitial cystitis (IC) | Research quality: Preliminary

• Key findings: Aloe capsules (up to 3,600 mg/day containing 1,200 mg polysaccharides) may help some people with interstitial cystitis. The polysaccharides may reinforce the GAG (glycosaminoglycan) layer of the bladder. Note: Research presented at major meeting but not yet published in peer-reviewed journal.
• Source citations: Moyad - The Supplement Handbook

Active Compounds

Primary Active Ingredients:
- Anthraquinones (aloin, aloe-emodin) - Found in the bitter latex; responsible for laxative action; promote rapid healing and tissue repair
- Polysaccharides (acemannan, glucomannans) - Found in the inner gel; stimulate immune function, interrupt viral replication, reduce inflammation
- Aloectin B - Stimulates the immune system; contributes to wound healing
- Enzymes (carboxypeptidase, bradykininase) - Relieve pain, reduce inflammation, decrease redness and swelling
- Glycoproteins - Speed healing of burns and wounds, stimulate new tissue production
- Fibroblast growth factor - Hastens wound healing by stimulating cell regeneration
- Resins and tannins - Astringent properties
- Vitamins (A, Bs, C, E, choline, folic acid) - Nutritive support; aloe is one of the only known natural vegetarian sources of vitamin B12
- Minerals and amino acids (20 amino acids including 7 essential) - Support overall health and body systems; excellent nutritional properties
- Saponins, sterols, salicylic acid - Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties

Dosage Information

Standard Dosage (Internal Gel/Juice):
- Form: Juice or gel concentrate
- Amount: 25 ml of aloe juice concentrate (4.5:1) one to four times per day
- Notes: Can be taken in orange or pineapple juice; best given on its own rather than mixed with herbal extracts

Therapeutic Dosage (Internal Gel):
- Form: Juice concentrate
- Amount: 25 ml one to four times daily; or 1-4 ounces of pulp juice daily
- Purpose: Digestive support, immune enhancement
- Notes: Leaf concentrates providing quantified levels of acemannan are recommended; should ideally contain not less than 11.25 mg/ml of acemannan

Capsule Dosage (Leaf Extract):
- Form: Capsule containing leaf extract
- Amount: 250-450 mg daily
- Purpose: Laxative effect
- Duration: Not for long-term use

Laxative Dosage (Aloe Bitters/Latex):
- Form: Dried juice (latex)
- Amount: 50-200 mg dried juice or equivalent per day; 50-300 mg at bedtime
- For adults and children over 10 years: 0.04-0.11 g of dried juice corresponding to 10-30 mg hydroxyanthraquinones/day
- Duration: Do not use more than 8-10 days; not for long-term use

Maximum Safe Dosage:
- Aloe latex: Do not exceed 10-30 mg hydroxyanthraquinones daily
- Warning: Overuse of aloe latex can cause intestinal cramping, pain, and purgative effects

Bioavailability Notes:
- Fresh gel directly from a cut leaf is most effective for topical use
- Internal products should contain low levels of anthraquinones (usually removed during processing) for safety
- The gel and latex are distinct substances with different uses—do not confuse them

How to Take It

Timing:
- Internal gel/juice: Can be taken morning or afternoon; some sources suggest after meals
- Laxative (aloe latex): Take at bedtime for morning effect

With Food:
- Internal gel/juice: Can be taken with or without food; may be mixed with orange or pineapple juice
- Topical: Apply directly to affected area as needed

Specific Instructions:
- For topical use: Break off a leaf and apply the fresh gel directly to burns, cuts, or skin conditions several times daily as needed
- For internal digestive support: Follow product directions; commercial products vary in concentration
- Fresh gel can be stored in a tightly closed glass jar away from light, heat, and moisture

Synergies - What It Works Well With

Complementary Supplements:

1. Comfrey (topical) - Both are powerful wound healers; combination promotes effective healing with minimal scarring. Combines well for deep-seated problems such as fractures and sports injuries.

2. Vitamin E (topical) - Together may enhance skin healing; studies show improved outcomes for skin conditions when used in combination.

3. Mild soap (topical) - Mixing aloe with mild soap reduced skin rash and redness in radiation therapy patients.

4. Probiotics (internal) - Aloe has anti-Candida properties and can be used as a probiotic support; complements gut health regimens.

5. Honey (topical) - Both are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and enhance wound healing. Ancient Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder wrote about the virtues of aloe gel combined with honey for injuries.

6. Turmeric powder (topical) - Mixed with aloe and applied directly to insect bites, burns, or acne sores facilitates rapid healing.

7. Turmeric and Cayenne (topical) - The combination of turmeric, aloe, and cayenne applied topically provides relief for various pains including shingles. Turmeric and cayenne both interfere with pain signal transmission.

Avoidance - What NOT to Combine With

Supplement Interactions:
1. Stimulant laxatives (cascara, senna) - Combining with aloe latex compounds laxative effect | Risk of excessive fluid and electrolyte loss

Drug Interactions:
1. Diabetes medications (glyburide, metformin, insulin, etc.) - Aloe gel may lower blood glucose | Risk of hypoglycemia; monitor blood sugar closely | Severity: Moderate

2. Blood thinners/Anticoagulants (warfarin) - Aloe vera may inhibit platelet aggregation | Risk of excessive bleeding | Severity: Moderate

3. Cardiac glycosides (digoxin) - Overuse of aloe latex increases risk of toxicity due to potassium depletion | Severity: Major

4. Diuretics (furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide) - Overuse of aloe latex may compound diuretic-induced potassium loss | Risk of hypokalemia | Severity: Moderate

5. Hydrocortisone - Aloe may improve anti-inflammatory action | Effect: Potentiating (may be beneficial in some contexts)

6. Sevoflurane (anesthesia) - Case report of excessive intraoperative blood loss in patient taking aloe tablets | Stop aloe at least 2 weeks before elective surgery | Severity: Moderate to Severe

Food Interactions:
- None specifically documented

Safety Information

Contraindications:
- Pregnancy and lactation (due to laxative and potential abortifacient actions of latex)
- Intestinal obstruction or ileus
- Abdominal pain of unknown cause
- Inflammatory bowel conditions when using latex (appendicitis, Crohn's disease)
- Hemorrhoids (for latex)
- Kidney disease (nephropathy)
- Children under 10 years (for laxative use)
- Menstruation (for latex)

Side Effects:
- Aloe gel: Occasional reports of contact dermatitis; when using for first time, apply small quantity to test skin response
- Aloe latex: Intestinal cramping, diarrhea, electrolyte imbalances with overuse
- Hypersensitivity reactions (dermatitis) reported with both topical and oral use
- Cardiac: Aloe vera is listed among supplements that may cause atrial fibrillation (AF) rather than control it. Severe potassium reductions from overuse could lead to abnormal heart rhythms.

Long-Term Use:
- Aloe gel (internal): Generally considered safe for ongoing use when using products with anthraquinones removed
- Aloe latex: NOT for long-term use; do not use more than 8-10 days. Discontinue if diarrhea or watery stools occur
- Research on long-term toxicity is still incomplete
- Avoid overuse of latex to prevent electrolyte depletion and dependency

Special Precautions:
- Stop aloe vera tablets at least 2 weeks prior to elective surgery
- Note: Aloe plants grown as potted houseplants typically have lower anthraquinone content than commercially grown plants
- The gel and latex should not be confused—they have very different safety profiles

IMPORTANT - When NOT to Use Aloe Topically:
- Staph infections, impetigo, or staph-like infections - Do NOT apply aloe to these conditions. The sweet gel creates a "perfect petri dish" for staph bacteria to grow in, sealing in the bacteria and worsening the infection.
- Infected deep wounds or surgical wounds - Evidence suggests aloe may actually lengthen healing time for deep, infected wounds. One study found aloe delayed closure of surgical wounds.
- Puncture wounds - Do not apply wound-healing herbs like aloe to puncture wounds. Speeding closure of the skin can trap microbes deposited deeply by the puncture.

Primary Uses At-a-Glance

Primary: Burns and wound healing, sunburn, skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, acne), digestive inflammation, constipation (latex)

Secondary: Arthritis, immune support, mouth ulcers, gum disease, blood sugar regulation, chronic fatigue, interstitial cystitis

Sources

Local Library:
- Chevallier, Andrew - Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine – healing properties, traditional uses, key constituents
- Gladstar, Rosemary - Medicinal Herbs – medicinal uses, growing information, traditional knowledge
- Balch, Phyllis - Prescription for Herbal Healing – clinical evidence, health conditions, safety information
- McIntyre, Anne - The Complete Herbal Tutor – constituents, actions, digestive and immune uses
- Simon, David - The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook – scientific research, practical uses
- Duke, James A. - Handbook of Medicinal Herbs – dosages, contraindications, interactions
- WRCHM - Herb-Drug-Nutrient Interaction – drug interactions and safety concerns
- Hobbs, Christopher - Grow It, Heal It – healing properties, clinical evidence
- DK - Herbal Remedies – key actions, medicinal uses
- Lopez, Maria Transito - Medicinal Plants at Home – skin applications, traditional uses
- Breverton, Terry - Complete Herbal – history, properties and uses
- Bone, Kerry - A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs – prescribing information, dosage
- Myiingan, Kendasa Emily - Native American Herbalist's Bible – skin illness applications
- Easley, Thomas - The Modern Herbal Dispensatory – dosage forms, energetics, specific indications, warnings
- Gladstar, Rosemary - Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health – internal uses, cautions for staph infections
- White, Linda B. - 500 Time-Tested Home Remedies – wound healing recipes, puncture wound cautions
- Brewer, Sarah - Encyclopedia of Vitamins – benefits, chronic fatigue syndrome, gum disease, IASC certification, minimum strength guidance
- Moyad, Mark - The Supplement Handbook – interstitial cystitis, atrial fibrillation risk, laxative cautions
- Gazzola, Alex - IBS – NICE guidelines on IBS treatment
- Little, Maureen - Home Herbal – historical documentation (Ebers Papyrus)
- Lust, John - The Natural Remedy Bible – synergistic combinations with turmeric and cayenne

General Knowledge:
- Overview and description synthesized from multiple local library sources