Aloe vera plants are often grown as houseplants or ornamental specimens, but these green succulents are good for more than mere aesthetics. Juices extracted from aloe's fleshy leaves contain substances that have both medical benefits and side effects. Never attempt to self-treat a medical condition without first discussing it with a doctor, as aloe vera affects people in different ways.
Benefit: Lower Blood Sugar
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a study on the effects of dietary ingestion of aloe published in the February 2006 issue of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" suggests that the ingestion of aloe vera juice can benefit individuals with type 2 diabetes by helping to decrease levels of blood sugar.
Benefit: Laxative
The anthroquinone glycosides in aloe vera juice can work as a laxative to soften the stools of those suffering from constipation, according to the Mayo Clinic. The juice's laxative effects have been known for centuries, with recorded incidences of aloe laxatives dating back as far as 6 B.C., according to Diane Gage, author of "Aloe Vera: Nature's Soothing Healer."
Benefit: Immunity Boosting
According to a 1996 trial published in the "Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes," injected or ingested aloe vera juice and juice extracts have shown positive effects on the human body's immune system. According to the American Pharmaceutical Association, aloe vera may help to fight leukemia, chronic hepatitis and HIV infections.
Side Effect: Cramps
Aloe vera juice irritates the large intestine and may provoke severe cramping of the intestines followed by diarrhea, according to the American Pharmaceutical Association. More reliable modern laxatives work better, says Gage. Some laxatives use extracts of aloe vera juice combined with other substances.
Side Effect: Pregnancy Complications
The University of Maryland Medical Center warns against ingesting aloe vera juice if you're pregnant. Various substances in the juice may cause uterine contractions and even miscarriage, reports the center. Because studies have not been done on infants regarding the use of aloe vera juice, the center also warns against nursing mothers ingesting the juice, as its chemicals may be passed on to the child through the mother's breast milk.
Side Effect: Allergies
Aloe vera is related to onions and garlic. If you're allergic to such plants, you may also be allergic to aloe vera juice, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include skin disorders like rashes and itchy hives.
References
- "Aloe Vera: Nature's Soothing Healer"; Diane Gage; 1996
- "American Pharmaceutical Association's Practical Guide to Natural Medicines"; Andrea Peirce; 1999
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aloe
- University of Michigan: Aloe
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aloe Interactions
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