In studies, aloe vera was shown to be beneficial for people with not only constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome IBS-C but also diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome IBS-D.

It is thought to do so inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut that promotes diarrhea. In , the U. Food and Drug Administration FDA banned laxative manufacturers from including aloe vera in over-the-counter products due to the lack of safety research. There remains debate as to whether aloe vera can reduce blood glucose sugar in a way that is beneficial to people with type 2 diabetes.

Proponents suggest that it can do so by improving insulin sensitivity in which cells are better able to absorb glucose in the blood. A review of studies involving 1, participants concluded there was "moderate" evidence that aloe vera could help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.

On the other hand, the evidence was "moderate to high" that it could prevent disease progression in people with prediabetes. Several studies involving people with diabetes have shown that aloe vera doesn't only reduce blood sugar but can also decrease triglycerides and "bad" low-density lipoprotein LDL cholesterol that contribute to heart disease.

Side effects of aloe vera applied to the skin are uncommon. Even in oral forms, the plant is generally well tolerated. This is especially true of topical and oral aloe preparations in which latex has been removed. Skin irritation is possible, though uncommon when aloe vera is applied topically.

With that said, aloe vera may cause rash and hives in people who are allergic to other plants in the lily family, such as onions, garlic, and tulips. Common side effects of oral aloe vera include:. The risk of side effects can vary by the formulation.

Aloe vera gel and juice appear to cause fewer reactions than whole-leaf aloe vera extract and aloe latex found in certain oral supplements. Problems generally occur when aloe vera is overused. When taken at higher doses, aloe vera may cause:.

Whole-leaf aloe vera extract has been shown to be carcinogenic in rats and is currently classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a possible human carcinogen Group 2B.

Some human studies suggest that the product may increase the risk of colorectal cancer , but more research is needed.

Oral aloe vera may interact with certain medications. In some cases, it can increase the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream along with the risk of side effects. In others, it may reduce the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream along with the drug's effectiveness.

If you take any of the following medications, talk to your healthcare provider before using any oral aloe vera product:. Stimulant laxatives are used with extreme caution during pregnancy and only for the short-term relief of constipation.

Because aloe vera latex and whole-leaf aloe vera extract have similar properties, the same precautions should be taken. The overuse of stimulant laxatives can induce uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth. Oral aloe vera products may be unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding and should be avoided.

There are no recommended doses of aloe vera in any form. Aloe vera products for the skin can vary in concentration from as little as 0.

There is no evidence that lower concentrations are less effective than higher concentrations. As a rule of thumb, start with the lowest possible dose and increase gradually if needed, never exceeding the manufacturer's recommended dose.

Oral formulations of aloe vera include capsules, extracts, powders, and juices. To be safe, follow the manufacturer's dosing instructions, particularly with aloe vera latex and whole-leaf extract supplements.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health suggests that the safest way to use aloe vera is topically but accedes that it can be used orally with the appropriate precautions. Here is how to use fresh aloe vera for skin conditions:. Whole-leaf aloe vera extract and aloe latex should generally be avoided due to the potential risks.

For safety's sake, limit yourself to commercial preparations designed specifically for oral use, such as aloe vera gels and juices. Commercial preparations are generally safer because the dose is controlled.

Even so, you can make aloe vera juice by following these steps:. Some studies suggest that doses of up to 90 milliliters 3 fluid ounces daily are well tolerated and safe.

If purchasing an aloe vera supplement or remedy, look for products that have been submitted for certification by an independent certifying body like U. Pharmacopeia US , ConsumerLab, or NSF International. Certification by these authorities ensures that the product is non-contaminated and contains nothing but the ingredients listed on the product label.

Aloe vera is a succulent plant whose gel may aid with wound healing, improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and prevent cavities when applied topically.

When taken orally, there is evidence that it can treat constipation and acid reflux and help lower cholesterol and blood sugar. There are no guidelines for the appropriate use of aloe vera in any form.

As a general rule, follow the manufacturer's guidelines and avoid the internal use of whole-leaf aloe vera extract or aloe vera latex which can be toxic to the liver and kidneys.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Aloe vera. Maan AA, Nazir A, Khan MKI, et al. Journal of Herbal Medicine.

doi: Hekamatpou D, Mehrabi F, Rahzani K, Aminiyan A. The effect of aloe vera clinical trials on prevention and healing of skin wound: a systematic review.

Iran J Med Sci. Teplicki E, Ma Q, Castillo DE, et al. The effects of aloe vera on wound healing in cell proliferation, migration, and viability.

Jones VA, Patel PM, Wilson C, Wang H, Ashack KA. Complementary and alternative medicine treatments for common skin diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAAD Int. Published Dec Garber A, Barnard L, Pickrell C. they just put it all over my back , bandaged it, and left it over night…true story.

I had a nasty sunburn last summer, aloe vera gel really helped me heal after. The cooling, soothing feeling was amazing! The green tea mask is one of the best masks I have used. Very effective, highly recommended. Hello Allison! You can periodically check the aloe vera gel for any changes in color, smell, or texture.

One of my favorite masks is the Green tea mask. My skin looks and feels just great after using it. aloe vera gel is an all in one beneficial product. it really do wonders on my skin.. which soothes my skin and always give me a fresh soft look…. Hi there!

We are so sorry to hear that! As mentioned aloe vera is photosensitizing, it is necessary to be careful when using it during the summer, for that reason we would suggest to consult with a doctor. I found this article very useful. But what should i go with raw aloevera or cold-processed aloevera gel product?

We are glad you found the article useful! When deciding between raw aloe vera and a cold-processed aloe vera gel product, it ultimately depends on your preferences and skincare needs. Consider your lifestyle, convenience, and any specific skin concerns you have when making your choice.

Both options can provide excellent benefits for your skin. Hi there, Excited to start with aloe vera in your skincare routine! For simplicity, go with cold-processed aloe vera gel—convenient and often retains key nutrients. If you prefer a hands-on approach, raw aloe vera gives you control but requires extraction.

Consider your skin sensitivity and convenience in making the choice. Enjoy the skincare journey! Sign me up for the newsletter!

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Contents What Is Aloe Vera? What Does Aloe Vera Contain? Aloe Vera Benefits It is a natural moisturizer. It has anti-inflammatory properties. It is non-irritating. It helps with insect bites.

It benefits your hair too. It treats sunburns. It diminishes dark circles. It heals wounds. Risks of Using Aloe Vera Allergic reaction Interaction with other medications Pregnancy and breastfeeding How to Use Aloe Vera for Skin?

Soothing face mask Aloe Vera in Your Skincare Routine Is What You Need. Facebook Pinterest. About the Author: skylar. Passionate about the environment, zero waste philosophy and DIY projects. Related Posts. Zaina at - Reply. It can be found in many commercial skin lotions and cosmetics. Aloe contains active compounds that may reduce pain and inflammation and stimulate skin growth and repair.

It is also an effective moisturizing agent. For this reason, aloe vera gel has gained tremendous popularity for relief of burns. In one study, burn sites treated with aloe healed completely in less than 16 days compared to 19 days for sites treated with silver sulfadiazine.

In a review of the scientific literature, researchers found that patients who were treated with aloe vera healed an average of almost 9 days sooner than those who were not treated with the medicinal plant.

However, other studies show mixed results. At least one study found that aloe actually delayed healing. Aloe is best used for minor burns and skin irritations and should never be applied to an open wound.

Preliminary evidence suggests that aloe gel may improve symptoms of genital herpes and certain skin conditions such as psoriasis. Another study found that aloe vera gel combined with tretinoin was more effective than tretinoin alone for treating acne.

As such, researchers claim that aloe vera gel may be useful in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, such as ultraviolet-induced erythema. Aloe juice or aloe latex, a yellow, bitter liquid derived from the skin of the aloe leaf, is a powerful laxative.

However, it can cause painful cramping and is not safe to use in this way. Studies show that aloe vera gel inhibits the activity of several types of bacteria that may lead to cavities and gum disease.

More research is needed. Preliminary studies suggest that aloe juice may help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 adult onset diabetes. More research is needed to determine whether aloe is helpful for diabetes. Preliminary studies suggest that aloe vera extract may help mitigate the effects of alcohol-induced liver damage.

Aloe vera is a perennial, succulent plant meaning its leaves hold large quantities of water. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall, and its tough, fleshy, spearlike leaves can grow up to 36 inches long.

The clear, thick gel found in the inner part of the leaf is most commonly used for minor cuts and burns. Although aloe is 99 percent water, aloe gel also contains substances known as glycoproteins and polysaccharides. Glycoproteins speed the healing process by stopping pain and inflammation while polysaccharides stimulate skin growth and repair.

These substances may also stimulate the immune system. You can get aloe by simply breaking off leaves of the plant which can be grown as a houseplant , but it is also available commercially in ointments, creams, and lotions.

Aloe gel is often included in cosmetic and over-the-counter skin care products as well. You can purchase aloe in the form of capsules, tablets, juice, gel, ointment, cream, and lotion. Pure aloe gel may be applied to the surface of the skin for minor skin irritations.

Children should never take oral aloe preparations. Slit the leaf of an aloe plant lengthwise and remove the gel from the inside, or use a commercial preparation.

Carefully clean affected area, and then apply aloe gel liberally to the skin. DO NOT apply to open wounds. The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease.

Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care, under the supervision of a health care provider. Aloe gel is considered safe when applied to the surface of the skin, but should not be applied to open or deep wounds.

In rare cases, it may cause an allergic reaction, mainly a skin rash. If you develop a rash, stop using the gel. Taking aloe latex orally may cause severe intestinal cramps or diarrhea and is not recommended.

Pregnant women should never take aloe latex because it may cause uterine contractions and trigger miscarriage. Nursing mothers should not take aloe latex either because the effects and safety for infants and children are not known.

High doses of aloe can cause kidney damage. If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use aloe vera without talking to your doctor. DO NOT take aloe for 2 weeks prior to any surgical procedure as it may increase bleeding during surgery.

Medications for diabetes: The combination of aloe vera and glyburide, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, may help control blood sugar and triglyceride fat levels in the blood. People with diabetes who use aloe either alone or in combination with other medications must be monitored closely by their doctor to make sure blood sugar levels don't fall too low a condition called hypoglycemia.

Digoxin and diuretics: Because taking oral aloe can decrease levels of potassium in the body, aloe latex should not be used by people taking diuretics water pills or digoxin a medication used to treat irregular heart rhythms and congestive heart failure.

These drugs also lower potassium levels in the body, so a combination of aloe and digoxin or diuretics could cause potassium levels to fall too low.

Due to aloe's effects on the bowels, it can potentially interfere with the absorption of any medication. Talk to your doctor if you plan to take oral aloe. Beppu H, Shimpo K, Chihara T, et al. Antidiabetic effects of dietary administration of Aloe arborescens Miller components on multiple low-dose streptozotocin-induced diabetes in mice: investigation on hypoglycemic action and systemic absorption dynamics of aloe components.

J Ethnopharmacol. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications; Boudreau MD, Beland FA.

Ditto for eczema, a skin condition that causes your skin to become red and itchy and more prone to fungal and bacterial infections: "Aloe has antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe eczema by hydrating and protecting it from contaminants," says Green.

Because aloe vera contains vitamins C and E, it stands to reason it may help prevent the formation of free radicals, which are the molecules that cause cell damage. Meanwhile, the salicylic acid it contains acts as a gentle exfoliant—and once those pesky dead skin cells are out of the way, your other skin care products might better penetrate the surface and do their thing more effectively as a result.

To score as many potential aloe vera skin benefits as possible, it's best to purchase pure aloe vera gel, rather than a formulated product, where the amount of aloe may be very little. But if aloe vera is found within the first three ingredients on the list, this suggests there's a promising amount in the formulation.

Try to find one that has the highest percentage of aloe vera—ideally, it will be listed first on the ingredients list—and the least number of additional ingredients possible. It's also important that the aloe vera gel not contain additives like alcohol, fragrance or color—aloe vera should be clear, not green.

These additives can be irritating to the skin and defeat the purpose. To save you time squinting at product labels, here are a handful of aloe vera products recommended by dermatologists:.

Aloe vera has been used for many years for various ailments and is perhaps most popular for its soothing effects on sunburn. But aloe vera has many other potential benefits to the skin, as well, including fading dark spots and stretch marks, managing acne and slowing the signs of aging.

Including aloe vera gel as part of your skin care routine, along with eating a nutrient-dense diet, exercising, staying well-hydrated , getting plenty of quality sleep and learning to reduce your stress all add up to a powerful, natural recipe for glowing skin and more! Use limited data to select advertising.

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List of Partners vendors. Healthy Lifestyle. By Krissy Brady is an Ontario-based freelance writer who specializes in health and wellness articles. Although more long-term data is needed, these studies indicate that aloe vera juice could offer an alternative approach to treatments for certain dental and oral conditions 16 , Aloe vera juice and mouthwash may improve various dental and oral conditions thanks to their potential antibacterial properties.

Still, more research is needed. Aloe vera can be found as a juice or a gel. The juice can be thought of as the sap, as it comes from the leafy part of the aloe plant. The gel, on the other hand, is a thick substance that comes from the inner parts of the plant. Some research suggests using aloe vera juice and supplements for various health conditions.

However, most of the available data comes from small, short-term studies, and larger, human clinical trials are still needed.

Aloe vera is commonly known as a topical gel used to treat sunburn. Promisingly, it may also provide other health benefits, largely due to its antioxidant properties. Preliminary research has indicated that aloe vera may benefit your skin, dental, oral, and digestive health. It may even improve blood sugar control.

However, more long-term data from human clinical trials is needed to confirm these benefits. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. Aloe vera has been used for centuries for its healing properties.

But what are the benefits of aloe vera for hair? Many people reach for aloe vera to treat a burn or scrape, but are there other benefits? See how aloe vera juice stacks up against acid reflux. Some argue that juice is high in sugar, while others champion its high nutrient content.

This article reviews the 9 healthiest juices and discusses…. Your favorite potted plant is more than a decoration. Aloe vera can be used to relieve heartburn, keep fruits and vegetables fresh, and much more.

Previously known as the Clean 9, the Forever Living C9 diet is a 9-day detox diet that claims to cause fast weight loss. It is based on meal…. Stretch marks happen when skin changes shape rapidly. Treatments for stretch marks may minimize their appearance.

Learn about ingredients to look for. While some foods can help you build muscle, others can make it more challenging. New research suggests that eating a plant-based diet may reduce sexual health side effects such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence in….

A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? This article takes a look at the health benefits of aloe vera as well as possible side effects, risks, and interactions of this popular herbal remedy.

The aloe vera plant has long, thick triangular leaves and is relatively easy to grow. The thick outer layer consists of the rind, and the middle layer consists of a bitter, yellow sap. At the center is a gel that can be applied directly to the skin.

In traditional and folk medicines, aloe vera has been used internally and externally to treat a wide range of unrelated medical conditions. Today, there are aloe vera supplements, juices, and skin or hair care products that are thought to have therapeutic effects.

Here is what some of the current research says about the possible health benefits of aloe vera:. Aloe vera gel applied to the skin is thought to promote wound healing, including injuries like:. It also appeared to reduce pain while healing, in part by keeping scar tissues well-hydrated and flexible.

Laboratory studies suggest that aloe vera promotes healing by accelerating new skin cell growth. The gel also has potent anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce swelling and redness.

Even so, there is not enough evidence to recommend aloe vera as an effective treatment for psoriasis or eczema. There is also no evidence that aloe vera can speed the healing of cold sores or genital herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus HSV. While some people promote aloe vera as anti-aging, there is little evidence that aloe vera in any form can reverse the signs of aging on a cellular level.

However, it does have definite benefits for the overall health of aging skin. In addition to increased skin cell turnover and moisture retention, aloe vera gel contains antioxidants and UV-protective compounds that may prevent long-term skin damage and photoaging.

Some studies even report that the daily application of aloe vera can significantly reduce visible wrinkles and discoloration. When applied to the teeth and gums, aloe vera may reduce dental plaque buildup and, in turn, reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

A study in Contemporary Clinical Dentistry found that aloe vera's antibacterial effects reduce bacteria that promote plaque growth and the development of cavities. When used as a mouthwash with daily brushing, aloe vera was also shown to prevent gingivitis and periodontal gum disease.

Aloe vera, when taken internally, is thought to reduce acid reflux and heartburn by slowing the production of stomach acids. Animal studies suggest that compounds in aloe vera may alter the gut-brain axis GBA which regulates digestion, including the production of acids.

A small pilot study investigated the hypothesis in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD. The researchers found that aloe vera syrup reduced acid reflux symptoms as well as the drug Prilosec omeprazole commonly used to treat GERD.

Aloe vera has a strong laxative effect that may be useful in the treatment of occasional constipation. It appears to act similarly to stimulant laxatives like Dulcolax bisacodyl that increase gut motility intestinal contractions that move food through the gut.

In studies, aloe vera was shown to be beneficial for people with not only constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome IBS-C but also diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome IBS-D. It is thought to do so inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut that promotes diarrhea.

In , the U. Food and Drug Administration FDA banned laxative manufacturers from including aloe vera in over-the-counter products due to the lack of safety research.

There remains debate as to whether aloe vera can reduce blood glucose sugar in a way that is beneficial to people with type 2 diabetes.

Proponents suggest that it can do so by improving insulin sensitivity in which cells are better able to absorb glucose in the blood. A review of studies involving 1, participants concluded there was "moderate" evidence that aloe vera could help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.

On the other hand, the evidence was "moderate to high" that it could prevent disease progression in people with prediabetes.

Several studies involving people with diabetes have shown that aloe vera doesn't only reduce blood sugar but can also decrease triglycerides and "bad" low-density lipoprotein LDL cholesterol that contribute to heart disease.

Side effects of aloe vera applied to the skin are uncommon. Even in oral forms, the plant is generally well tolerated. This is especially true of topical and oral aloe preparations in which latex has been removed. Skin irritation is possible, though uncommon when aloe vera is applied topically.

With that said, aloe vera may cause rash and hives in people who are allergic to other plants in the lily family, such as onions, garlic, and tulips. Common side effects of oral aloe vera include:. The risk of side effects can vary by the formulation.

Aloe vera gel and juice appear to cause fewer reactions than whole-leaf aloe vera extract and aloe latex found in certain oral supplements. Problems generally occur when aloe vera is overused. When taken at higher doses, aloe vera may cause:. Whole-leaf aloe vera extract has been shown to be carcinogenic in rats and is currently classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a possible human carcinogen Group 2B.

Some human studies suggest that the product may increase the risk of colorectal cancer , but more research is needed. Oral aloe vera may interact with certain medications. In some cases, it can increase the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream along with the risk of side effects.

In others, it may reduce the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream along with the drug's effectiveness. If you take any of the following medications, talk to your healthcare provider before using any oral aloe vera product:.

Stimulant laxatives are used with extreme caution during pregnancy and only for the short-term relief of constipation. Because aloe vera latex and whole-leaf aloe vera extract have similar properties, the same precautions should be taken. The overuse of stimulant laxatives can induce uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.

Oral aloe vera products may be unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding and should be avoided. There are no recommended doses of aloe vera in any form. Aloe vera products for the skin can vary in concentration from as little as 0. There is no evidence that lower concentrations are less effective than higher concentrations.

As a rule of thumb, start with the lowest possible dose and increase gradually if needed, never exceeding the manufacturer's recommended dose. Oral formulations of aloe vera include capsules, extracts, powders, and juices. To be safe, follow the manufacturer's dosing instructions, particularly with aloe vera latex and whole-leaf extract supplements.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health suggests that the safest way to use aloe vera is topically but accedes that it can be used orally with the appropriate precautions.

Here is how to use fresh aloe vera for skin conditions:. Whole-leaf aloe vera extract and aloe latex should generally be avoided due to the potential risks.