What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Aloe Gel?

What Are the Benefits of Drinking Aloe Gel?

Aug 3, 2010 | By Glyn Sheridan

The gel from the aloe vera plant has been used for centuries for internal and external disorders, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Today, food-grade aloe vera gel is available in health food stores as a dietary aid. You may buy the gel blended with water or juice for drinking--or you may stir the gel into your favorite beverage. Drinking aloe gel may have health benefits, but the FDA does not oversee the production of most aloe products, so there is no guarantee of purity, quality or effectiveness.

Laxative

The inner portion of the aloe leaf contains latex that gives aloe gel its laxative properties. Drinking the gel may relieve constipation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Like most laxatives, aloe may also cause diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Consult with your doctor before using aloe gel to treat chronic constipation.

Blood Sugar Control

Drinking aloe gel may help regulate blood sugar levels, according to the Mayo Clinic, making it valuable in the treatment of Type II diabetes. However, research is necessary to establish its effectiveness. Diabetics should use aloe only under their doctor's supervision.

Anti-Cancer

Aloe gel may be beneficial in the treatment of cancer, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. A 2009 study, conducted at St. Gerardo Hospital in Monza, Italy, administered aloe to patients with cancerous tumors, who were undergoing chemotherapy. The study concluded that aloe may increase a cancer patient's survival and may assist in tumor regression. Extensive clinical studies are necessary to determine whether there is an actual benefit.

Antiviral

Drinking aloe may assist in the treatment of viral disorders, according to the Gale Encyclopedia--including measles, influenza and the early stages of AIDS. The potential antiviral benefit may be due to the biologically active polysaccharide, known as acemannan. Consult a doctor of naturopathy before using aloe gel to treat any viral disorder.