Aloe Vera Uses and Benefits
Aloe vera belongs to a family of plants that have medicinal properties.
Aloe vera can be used topically (applied to the skin) or internally (taken by mouth) to prevent and treat certain conditions, such as acne and burns. 12
Aloe vera is the most common type of aloe vera product. It comes from the cactus plant, Aloe barbadensis.
3 Studies have shown that the active ingredients in aloe vera help protect bones and prevent diseases such as cancer and diabetes. 4
Aloe vera is generally harmless, but it can cause side effects such as allergic reactions and aloe vera poisoning. It can also cause skin conditions such as eczema.
Aloe Vera Types and Their Uses
There are more than 500 species of aloe vera, with different properties and uses.
5 The species of aloe vera most commonly used in medicines and topical products include Aloe barbadensis and Aloe arborescens. 15
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Aloe vera comes from the Aloe barbadensis plant. It contains more than 200 bioactive ingredients that may benefit your health. Most of these ingredients are found in the clear gel inside its leaves. 6
Aloe vera is used in medicine and skin care products, usually in the form of gels and creams. 4 Applied directly to the skin, it has moisturizing and wound healing properties.
7 Its health-promoting components include polysaccharides, flavonoids, amino acids, and phenolic acids. 6
Polysaccharides: Carbohydrate molecules that provide energy to plant cells. Some of the materials used in wound healing and medicine are derived from aloe polysaccharides.
8 Liu C, Cui Y, Pi F, Cheng Y, Guo Y, Qian H. Extraction, purification, structural properties, bioactivity, and pharmacological applications of aloe polysaccharide acemannan: a review.
Molecules. 2019;24(8):1554. doi:10.3390/molecules24081554
Flavonoids: Natural plant compounds with anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. These substances have also been shown to protect the heart and brain.
9 Amino acids: The building blocks of proteins. Amino acids have a variety of functions, including helping the body digest food and repair body tissues. They are also a source of energy for the body.
10 Phenolic acids: Natural antioxidants that reduce the risk of oxidative stress in the body.
The accumulation of oxidative stress in the body can eventually lead to diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. 11
Aloe vera can be applied to the skin to relieve symptoms such as acne and burns. 2
Studies have shown that oral aloe vera can help with weight loss, cancer, diabetes, hepatitis (liver inflammation), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (a condition involving long-term inflammation of the digestive tract). 42
Certain components of aloe vera, including aloesin, may help protect bones and slow the progression of bone diseases such as osteoporosis (bone loss).
Although this research is promising, further clinical studies are needed to clarify how aloe vera and its components protect the body from certain diseases. 4
Aloe arborescens
Clinical studies have shown that aloe vera has antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are compounds that can inhibit the growth of free radicals (a type of molecule that can damage human cells).
However, most studies have focused on aloe vera. 12
Aloe arborescens has a higher concentration of fatty acids than either aloe vera or aloe vera. These fatty acids effectively coat the plant and act as a barrier against environmental stressors.
12 These include linoleic and linolenic acids, polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids, which are considered essential fats (fats that the body cannot produce on its own). 1314
Polyunsaturated fats are a type of healthy fat that is necessary for brain health and the proper functioning of body cells. Omega-6 fatty acids support cellular function. 1314
Cape Aloe
Aloe vera is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants. It has shown promise in reducing body weight, body mass index (BMI), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose (FBG).
Research suggests that these health benefits may be attributed to certain components of aloe vera that have natural detoxifying properties and act as natural laxatives, thereby promoting bowel movements. 15
Other studies have also demonstrated the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties of Cape Aloe. 16
Because of the side effects, this plant can only be used for a limited time, so further research is needed on the safety and efficacy of Cape Aloe. 15
Aloe Vera Perry
Aloe vera is an herb that has been clinically shown to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. 1718 Extracts can be used medicinally to treat a variety of diseases, including cancer.
Research is currently underway to find the most effective delivery methods. 18
Aloe vera contains many phytochemicals (plant compounds) that help fight disease. These include flavonoids and other compounds, including: 18
Glycosides: Plant compounds composed of one or more sugars bound to hydroxyl compounds (compounds in which an oxygen atom is chemically bound to a hydrogen atom).
Glycosides have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help prevent and treat disease. 19
Proteins: Complex molecules that perform a variety of functions in the body. They are necessary for the function, structure, and regulation of tissues and organs.
Proteins contain amino acids that help the body digest food, repair body tissues, and produce energy. 20
Phenols: Antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties that prevent the accumulation of oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to chronic (long-term) diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. 21
Research shows that aloe vera flowers contain a large number of secondary plant compounds that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. 22
Applications
The dosage of aloe vera depends on the species and the intended use.
Although aloe vera has been used as a laxative in juices and other foods, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) no longer approves it for this use due to a lack of safety data. 3
Aloe vera gel can be applied to the skin as an ointment to speed the healing of wounds and burns or to treat acne. 322 Aloe vera is also found in beverages, capsules, powders, and food flavorings (as an additive). 3
Aloe arborescens can be consumed as juice or applied as a gel. Dosages vary depending on the condition being treated. 2312
Aloe vera can be taken as a dietary supplement. 15 In one study, participants took two capsules containing 460 milligrams (mg) per day for two weeks, followed by a two-week break.
The cycle was repeated three times. After three months, participants showed significant improvements in weight, body mass index (BMI), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), and fasting blood glucose (FBG). 15
Aloe vera extracts are used medically for wound healing and treating conditions such as cancer. 18 Dosing and treatment are performed by a physician.
Before incorporating aloe vera into your daily routine, always discuss dosage and use with your physician.
Safety and Side Effects
Aloe vera is safe and well tolerated when taken orally or applied properly to the skin. 2 However, pregnant women should avoid taking it. 2 Other risks include aloe vera poisoning and allergic reactions.
Aloe vera poisoning
Aloe vera poisoning can occur if certain preparations (such as whole leaf extracts, latex, or gel) are swallowed. 24 Symptoms of aloe vera poisoning include:25
Severe abdominal pain
Vision loss
Difficulty breathing
Diarrhea
Rash
Neck swelling
Vomiting
Skin irritation
If you experience any of these symptoms after using aloe vera, call your local emergency number or contact poison control. You can also call poison control toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
If you suspect aloe vera poisoning, seek medical attention immediately. 25
Aloe vera allergy
Some people are allergic to aloe vera. Symptoms of aloe vera allergy include:
Chest pain
Throat tightness
Rash
Difficulty breathing
Other side effects
Other side effects include skin reactions, gastrointestinal reactions, and acute hepatitis. For example:
Topical use of aloe vera gel can cause burning, eczema, and itching (pruritus). In this case, stop use and consult a doctor.
Oral use of aloe vera latex may cause cramping or abdominal pain.
Using aloe vera leaf extract for three weeks to five years has been associated with cases of acute hepatitis.
Choosing an Aloe Vera Product
When choosing an aloe vera product, you should consider factors such as intended use, oral or topical use, and the type of aloe vera.
Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, but the FDA has approved aloe vera as a food additive with a flavor approval.
263 If you are taking an aloe vera supplement, check the label to see if it has been independently tested.
This means that the product has been tested for quality and contains only the ingredients listed on the bottle. 27
When choosing an aloe vera cream or gel, choose one that is made from depigmented whole leaf extract.
Whole leaf extracts of aloe vera that have not been properly processed have been linked to cancer. 28
If you are unsure which type of aloe vera is right for you, talk to your doctor. Always use an aloe vera product as directed in the instructions or on the packaging.
Brief Overview
Aloe vera is a plant with a variety of healing and medicinal properties, from accelerating wound healing to treating diseases such as cancer.
Depending on the type and dosage form, aloe vera can be applied topically to the skin or taken orally.
Aloe vera is the most commonly used type of aloe vera. Other species include Aloe perryi, Aloe ferox, and Aloe arborescens.
Rich in plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera is a versatile plant with many benefits for overall health.
Since it is a natural substance, caution is advised. Aloe vera poisoning or allergy may occur.
If you experience symptoms of aloe vera poisoning or allergy, such as loss of vision, rash, or skin irritation, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
