Table of Contents
Introduction:
The aloe vera plant has been in use for many years to treat conditions like skin irritations, constipation, wounds, diabetes, burns, etc. These have also been used as an ingredient in cosmetics and as a dietary supplement in various foods. The plant mostly grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a cactus-like plant that belongs to the lily family. The widespread human exposure to the plant and its potential carcinogenic and toxic effects raise safety concerns. The aloe plant is chemically composed of different phenolic compounds and polysaccharides. Intake of aloe preparations has been associated with side effects like hypokalemia, diarrhea, light sensitivity, hypersensitivity reactions, etc.
What Is Aloe?
Aloe is a perennial succulent plant that belongs to the Liliacea family. There are more than 400 plant species that come under Aloe; aloe vera refers to the Aloe barbadensis Miller plant. Aloe vera is the most common form that is used in Aloe-based products.
Aloe vera is a succulent that is short-stemmed or stemless and has green, fleshly elongated leaves. The outer layer consists of a thick cuticle that accounts for around 30 percent of the weight of the whole plant. Most of the plant volume is composed of the inner leaf pulp containing the aloe vera gel.
Aloe vera is “the plant of immortality” and has been used as traditional medicine in Japanese, Indian, Roman, Egyptian, Chinese, Korean, and Greek cultures. Due to its various beneficial effects, it has been used in producing cosmetics, laxative drugs, and functional food.
99 percent of aloe is water, and aloe gel contains polysaccharides and glycoproteins. Glycoproteins fasten the healing process and inhibit pain and inflammation. On the other hand, polysaccharides promote skin growth and repair. These substances also play a role in stimulating the immune system.
What Are the Benefits?
Aloe is mainly used for the following conditions:
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Constipation - Aloe latex (a bitter yellow liquid derived from aloe leaf) and aloe juice are potent laxatives. The effectiveness remains unclear, and it may result in painful abdominal cramps.
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Diabetes - Preliminary studies show that aloe juice may be effective in reducing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes mellitus. However, more studies are needed on the same.
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Burns and Wounds - Aloe gel application is seen to fasten wound healing in case of first and second-degree burns. It may also promote wound healing. Aloe gel is taken from the aloe leaf's central part and is a common household remedy for minor burns and cuts.
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Herpes and Skin Conditions - Preliminary studies suggest that aloe gel improves the symptoms of certain skin conditions like psoriasis and genital herpes. Some studies suggested that aloe gel has anti-inflammatory effects greater than one percent hydrocortisone cream. Aloe extract cream may aid in reducing scaling, itching, swelling, and redness due to mild to moderate psoriasis.
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Acne - Research suggests that aloe gel application and topical medication for acne are more effective than prescription medication alone.
Is Aloe Vera Toxic?
The extract from the aloe plant is called aloe. Aloe poisoning occurs when an individual swallows the substance. Aloe is mostly not very poisonous. It is mostly considered to be safe when applied to the skin surface, but it is not recommended on deep or open wounds. In some uncommon cases, it may result in allergic reactions and skin rashes. In case of any allergic reactions, the treatment should be discontinued immediately.
The poisonous ingredients that are present in aloe plants are aloin and aloe. The symptoms of aloe poisoning are:
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Vomiting.
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Diarrhea.
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Skin rash.
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Difficulty in breathing.
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Throat swelling.
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Severe abdominal pain.
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Loss of vision.
In case of poisoning, discontinue product use. Do not induce vomiting unless suggested by the health care provider. Immediate medical care should be sought.
The severe side effects associated with aloe vera are
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Low blood potassium levels.
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Blood clotting problem.
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Hepatitis or liver inflammation.
Severe side effects mostly occur due to exposure to higher doses.
Aloe vera may also interact with other supplements, herbs, or medications. So, it is important to get guidance from the physician before using it.
Is Aloe Carcinogenic?
The NTP (national toxicology program) studies in rodents (both males and females) concluded carcinogenicity activity on consumption of whole leaf extracts of aloe vera. It was found that the consumption resulted in tumors in the large intestine. However, more studies are needed to determine the potential risks in humans.
What Are the Contraindications for Aloe Vera?
The contraindications for aloe vera use include:
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Children under 12 years of age should avoid taking aloe gel internally.
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Pregnant or nursing mothers should avoid use as the safety information is unknown. How safe it is for the developing fetus or the mother is unknown.
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Avoid taking aloe 2 weeks before any surgical intervention procedures, as there is a chance that it may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
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For people with digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, or Chron’s disease should avoid use.
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Individuals with hemorrhoids should avoid taking aloe latex or aloe gel.
What Are the Possible Drug Interactions?
The possible drug interactions are:
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Diabetic Drugs - Aloe gel, when taken orally along with diabetic drugs, increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level).
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Diuretics and Digoxin - Taking aloe orally can result in a decrease in potassium levels in the body. Therefore, aloe latex is not indicated in patients taking digoxin (medication used for treating congestive heart failure and irregular heart rhythm) and diuretics. These drugs alone can lower potassium levels in the body, so their combination with aloe can make the potassium levels fall too low.
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Anticoagulants - These drugs reduce blood clotting. Aloe, when taken orally, also reduces blood clotting. So, taking aloe when under anti-coagulant medication can increase the risk of bleeding.
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Stimulant Laxatives - Aloe latex, when taken orally along with stimulant laxatives, can overstimulate the bowels and lead to dehydration.
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Oral Drugs - Aloe latex, when taken orally, can reduce other drugs' absorption and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Aloe vera is not a regulated drug. There is no guarantee of the safety, purity, and strength of aloe vera-based products. Any herbals, including aloe vera, supplements, or drugs, should only be taken under the guidance of a physician.
