Aloe Vera juice has been used for its healing properties for centuries.The juice is made from the leaves of the plant, while gel is extracted from the center of the leaves. Traditionally aloe is used topically to heal wounds and soothe burns and is generally considered safe, but, according to mayoclinic.com, can cause problems when ingested in juice form. The juice can cause a rebound effect if used to combat constipation for more than a week. Additionally aloe vera drinks should not be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women or people with blood sugar problems, kidney disease or allergies to onions, garlic or tulips, which are closely related to the aloe vera plant.
Always check with your health care provider before using aloe vera drinks.
Constipation
Aloe vera drinks are sometimes used to treat constipation. The National Institutes of Health's Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that parts of the aloe vera plant were used in over-the-counter laxatives until 2002 when the FDA required more uniform safety regulations be followed. Mayoclinic.com and the NIH both report that there is strong evidence to support aloe vera drinks as a treatment for constipation, although drinking too much can cause an electrolyte imbalance, so users should consult with a physician prior to using this treatment.
Lowering Blood Sugar
Some people use aloe vera drinks to help lower blood sugar. While mayoclinic.com reports that aloe vera juice can lower blood sugar, it is difficult to regulate, especially if the user is also taking medication to lower blood sugar. Take aloe vera juice for this benefit only on the advice of a health care provider.
Cancer Prevention
Studies are still lacking that indicate aloe vera drinks can prevent cancer---in particular lung cancer---but mayoclinic.com reports that there are some preliminary findings that appear to support this benefit. However, due to the potential side effects, cancer patients should always consult a physician before adding this or other supplements to their treatment routine.
Ulcerative Colitis
It's possible that the laxative properties of aloe vera juice may help people who suffer from ulcerative colitis, a painful disease of the digestive tract. While additional studies are needed, mayoclinic.com reports that some studies have shown promise for this use. Check with your health care provider when deciding on treatment.
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