Uses and Benefits of Aloe

Aloe is a family of plants with medicinal properties. Aloe can be applied topically (to the skin) or taken orally (by mouth) to help prevent and heal certain health conditions, such as acne and burns.12

Aloe vera is the most common type in aloe-based products. It originates from the cactus-like Aloe barbadensis Miller plant.3 Research has found that the active compounds in aloe vera may help protect bones and prevent conditions like cancer and diabetes.4

Aloe is generally safe, but negative reactions, including allergic reactions and aloe poisoning, can occur. It can also trigger skin conditions like eczema.

Types of Aloe and Their Uses

There are over 500 species of aloe, which all have different characteristics and uses.5 Some of the more common types of aloe used in medicines and topical products include Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens.15

Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller)

Aloe vera originates from the Aloe barbadensis Miller plant, which contains over 200 bioactive compounds that support health. Most of these compounds reside in the inner clear gel of its leaves.6

Aloe vera is used in medicines and skincare products—often in gels and creams.4 It has shown moisturizing and wound-healing properties when applied directly to the skin.7 Its healthful compounds include polysaccharides, flavonoids, amino acids, and phenolic acids:6

Polysaccharides: Carbohydrate molecules that provide energy to plant cells. Some materials used for wound healing and medicines are derived from the polysaccharides in Aloe vera.8

Liu C, Cui Y, Pi F, Cheng Y, Guo Y, Qian H. Extraction, purification, structural characteristics, biological activities and pharmacological applications of Acemannan, a polysaccharide from Aloe vera: A review. Molecules. 2019;24(8):1554. doi:10.3390/molecules24081554

Flavonoids: Natural plant substances that contain anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties. These substances have also been shown to protect the heart and brain.9

Amino acids: The basic building blocks of proteins. Amino acids perform many functions, including helping the body break down food and repairing body tissue. They also act as a source of energy for the body.10

Phenolic acids: Natural antioxidants that reduce the risk of oxidative stress in the body. A buildup of oxidative stress in the body can eventually lead to diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.11

When applied to the skin, aloe might reduce symptoms of conditions like acne and burns.2

Aloe consumed orally has been shown to help with weight loss, cancer, diabetes, hepatitis (liver inflammation), and inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD (conditions that involve long-lasting inflammation of the digestive tract).42

Certain Aloe vera compounds, including aloin, may help protect the bones and slow the progression of bone diseases such as osteoporosis (bone loss). While research is promising, more clinical trials are needed to determine how Aloe vera and its compounds protect the body from certain conditions.4

Aloe Arborescens

Aloe arborescens has shown antioxidant effects in clinical studies.12 Antioxidants are compounds that inhibit the growth of free radicals—molecules that can harm the body’s cells. However, most research focuses on Aloe vera.12

Aloe arborescens contains a higher concentration of fatty acids than Aloe ferox or Aloe vera. These fatty acids efficiently coat the plant and act as a barrier to environmental stressors.12 They include linoleic acid and linolenic acid, which are polyunsaturated, omega-6 fatty acids considered essential fats (fats our bodies cannot produce on their own).1314

Polyunsaturated fats are a type of healthy fat needed for brain health and for the body’s cells to function properly. Omega-6 fatty acids help with cell function.1314

Aloe Ferox

Aloe ferox is one of the most widely 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 shows these health benefits may be driven by certain compounds found in aloe ferox that naturally detoxify and act as a natural laxative to promote bowel movements.15

Other studies show that Aloe ferox has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer properties.16

Further studies on aloe ferox are needed on safety and efficacy, as the plant can only be used for limited periods due to side effects.15

Aloe Perryi

Aloe perryi is an herb that has shown antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-cancer effects in clinical studies.1718 Extracts are used in medicines to treat many conditions, including cancer. Research is still determining the most effective way to administer it.18

Aloe perryi contains many phytochemicals (plant chemicals) that help fight disease. These include flavonoids and other compounds, including:18

Glycosides: Plant-derived compounds of one or more sugars that combine with a hydroxy compound (a compound of one oxygen atom chemically bonded to one hydrogen atom). Glycosides have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that help with disease prevention and management.19

Proteins: Complex molecules that play many roles in the body. They are required for the function, structure, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs. Proteins contain amino acids, which help the body digest food, repair body tissue, and produce energy.20

Phenols: Antioxidants with anti-inflammatory actions that help prevent the buildup of oxidative stress in the body that can lead to chronic (long-lasting) conditions like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.21

The flowers of Aloe perryi have been studied for their rich phytochemical content, which might help prevent the growth of cancer cells.22

How To Use

Aloe dosages depend on the type and usage. While aloe has been used as a laxative in juices and other consumable products, it is no longer approved for this use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because of a lack of safety data.3

Aloe vera gel can be applied to the skin as an ointment to speed up wound and burn healing, or to help treat acne.322Aloe vera is also found in drinks, capsules, powders, and food flavorings (as an additive).3

Aloe arborescens can be consumed as a juice or applied as a gel. The dosage varies depending on the condition being treated.2312

Aloe ferox can be consumed as a supplement.15 One study provided participants with two capsules per day at a dosage of 460 milligrams (mg) for two weeks, followed by a 2-week break. This cycle was repeated three times. After three months, participants saw significant improvements in body weight, body mass index (BMI), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), and fasting blood glucose (FBG).15

Extracts of Aloe perryi are used in medicinal settings for wound healing and to treat conditions like cancer.18 A healthcare provider administers the medication and treatment.

Always discuss dosages and uses of aloe with your healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.

Safety and Side Effects

When consumed by mouth or applied to skin correctly, aloe is safe and well-tolerated.2 However, people who are pregnant should avoid taking it.2 Other risks include aloe poisoning and allergic reactions.

Aloe Poisoning

Aloe poisoning can occur if certain preparations (such as in the form of whole leaf extract, latex, or gels) are swallowed.24 Symptoms of aloe poisoning include:25

Severe abdominal pain

Vision loss

Difficulty breathing

Diarrhea

Rash

Swelling of the throat

Vomiting

Skin irritation

Call your local emergency number or a local Poison Control Center if you experience any of the above symptoms after using aloe. You can also call the national toll-free Poison Control hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Get medical help right away if you think you have aloe poisoning.25

Aloe Allergy

Some people are allergic to aloe. Symptoms of an aloe allergy include:25

Chest pain

Tightness in the throat

Rash

Breathing difficulty

Other Side Effects

Other side effects include skin reactions, gastrointestinal (digestive) reactions, and acute hepatitis. For example:2

Topical use of aloe gel may cause burning, eczema, and itching (pruritus). If this happens, discontinue use and speak to your healthcare provider.

Oral use of aloe latex may cause cramping or abdominal pain.

Consuming aloe leaf extracts between periods of anywhere from three weeks to five years has been associated with cases of acute hepatitis.

Choosing An Aloe Product

When selecting an aloe product, factors to consider include the intended use, whether it is taken orally or applied topically, and the type of aloe.

Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, but the FDA has approved Aloe vera as a food additive for flavor.263 If taking an aloe supplement, check the label to see if it is third-party tested. This means the product has been tested for quality and only contains the ingredients listed on the bottle.27

When choosing aloe-based creams or gels, opt for ones made from whole-leaf extracts that have been decolorized. Whole-leaf extracts of aloe vera that have not been properly processed have been linked to cancer.28

Speak to a healthcare provider if you are unsure which type of aloe is right for you. Always take aloe products as prescribed or instructed on the product package.

A Quick Review

Aloe is a family of plants that boast many therapeutic and medicinal properties, from speeding up wound healing to helping treat conditions such as cancer. Aloe can be applied topically to the skin or consumed orally, depending on the type and form.

Aloe vera is the most commonly used type of aloe. Aloe perryi, Aloe ferox, and Aloe arborescens are other types.

Rich in plant chemicals that demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, aloe is a versatile plant with many benefits for your overall health. It’s a natural substance, so use it with caution. Aloe poisoning or allergy is possible. See a healthcare provider as soon as possible if you experience symptoms of aloe poisoning or allergy—such as vision loss, rash, or skin irritation.

DQH Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life. What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin? Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition. Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes. If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider. What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin? Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity. Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C. Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post. Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster. This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster. While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin. It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin. Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning? Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance. You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather. Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.

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