Adverse clinical effects of the whole leaf extract in humans. Topical and oral use of Aloe vera can cause skin irritation, hives, cramping, and diarrhea to those who are allergic to other plants in the lily family, for example, onion and tulips.
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.
Aloe latex or whole-leaf extract taken orally might be unsafe and is likely unsafe in high doses. Taking 1 gram a day of aloe latex for several days can cause acute kidney failure and can be fatal. Aloe latex might also have the potential to cause cancer. Other side effects include abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
Like ginger and cayenne pepper, aloe contains salicylates that likely cause blood-thinning effects. One 2020 study in The Professional Medical Journal found that, when added to blood in a laboratory, aloe vera gel demonstrated an antiplatelet effect similar to aspirin.
Side effects
Allergic reactions are mostly due to anthraquinones, such as aloin and barbaloin. It is best to apply it to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction. Oral: Abdominal cramps, diarrhea, red urine, hepatitis, dependency or worsening of constipation.
Outcome and Management
Hepatotoxicity from aloe vera is rare and cases have been self-limiting upon stopping the herbal. While some reported cases have been severe or prolonged, there have been no instances leading to fatalities, liver transplantation, chronic hepatitis, or vanishing bile duct syndrome.
Aloe vera improves digestion by treating constipation and increasing metabolic rate. Due to its high fiber content, it keeps our body from dehydration and helps constipation. Aloe vera supports the gut with digestion by keeping gut bacteria in balance.
Aloe vera has marvelous medicinal properties. Aloe vera lowers blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. It also improves the responsiveness of the body tissues towards insulin, thereby making insulin more effective. Active components present in Aloe vera also help in lowering high blood pressure.
Aloe vera is believed to open up your capillaries and improve arterial walls. This means that your heart doesn't have to work as hard to circulate blood through the body, and less stress on your heart means a healthier you.
Based on existing studies of aloe vera benefits, 10-20mL per day of aloe vera syrup seems like the sweet spot. This is the range that appears to maximize health benefits while minimizing adverse effects. 10-20mL is equivalent to about 2-4 teaspoons.
Aloe has no known severe, serious, moderate, or mild interactions with other drugs.
Kidney Disease and Aloe Vera
The consumption of aloe vera products is contraindicated in patients with renal disorders. This is because it is associated with electrolyte imbalance and medication interactions.
Aloe latex is a GI irritant. Products made from whole aloe leaves will contain some aloe latex. Kidney problems: High doses of aloe latex have been linked to kidney failure and other serious conditions. Surgery: Aloe might affect blood sugar levels and could interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery.
A study has shown that aloe vera juice might help in lowering blood sugar and it might also cause a lowering of cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which together might be helpful for people with diabetes and it may also reduce the risk of heart diseases in them.
Analgesic Properties: The topical application of aloe vera gel can help provide a cooling effect to joints and muscles while helping to support flexibility. Massage gel on knees, elbows, shoulders, and ankles to help.
Conclusions: The present study showed that aloe vera gel extract is effective to improve the lipid profile and liver and kidney function.
Several studies have shown the positive effects of Aloe vera to treat wounds such as psoriasis, mouth sores, ulcers, diabetes, herpes, bedsores, and burn wounds.
The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera may help reduce gastrointestinal inflammation, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.
Aloe vera contains enzymes that can help with the breakdown of sugars and fats, and that can help your digestive system to keep running smoothly. It can also assist with decreasing any irritation in the stomach and intestines.
Intake of aloe vera gel helps purify the blood and promote liver function. You need to take fresh aloe vera gel to take care of your fatty liver. However, before using any herbal remedy, it is important to consult or notify your healthcare provider. You can also drink aloe vera juice to help with fatty liver.
Aloe vera is an effective anti-inflammatory. It inhibits the cyclooxygenase pathway and decreases the prostaglandin E2 production from arachidonic acid.