Aloe vera or Liliaceae is native the Northern Africa and Madagascar, but is now cultivated in similar arid environments in the U.S., Mexico, and China. It has been used both topically and orally to treat afflictions such as sunburns, constipation, cuts, abrasions and even cancer and HIV infection. Drinking aloe vera in juice form is popular; however, it has also been associated with diarrhea and cramping. Prolonged use for constipation may lead to dependency. There have been reports of liver inflammation, abnormal heart rhythms and electrolyte imbalances with excessive use. Check with your health care provider before using aloe vera juice.
Laxative
The most common reason for ingesting aloe is for constipation. MayoClinic.com explains that when dried, the gel inside the leaf forms a latex that contains anthroquinone glycosides, a cathartic or cleansing agent. It also contains aloin, which is well supported by scientific evidence to be a laxative. A general dosage recommendation is 50 to 200 mg of aloe latex; however, more studies need to be conducted to determine safe doses and its effectiveness when compared to other laxatives. Do not use in combination with diuretics as it can drop potassium levels to a dangerous low.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a disease that affects the rectum and large intestine. It is usually accompanied by pain and cramping following bowel movements, fever, diarrhea and rectal pain. There is preliminary but promising research that ingesting aloe vera juice can aid in treatment of ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disease by cleansing the system and acting as an anti-inflammatory agent. Since research in the area is relatively new, speak to a physician before ingesting aloe to relieve symptoms.
Diabetes
Aloe vera has blood sugar-lowering properties. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that aloe vera juice can lower blood sugar in people with Type II or adult-onset diabetes. The combination of aloe with the diabetes medicine glyburide may also help lower triglycerides in the blood. Always speak to a doctor rather than self-medicating, because aloe vera could drop blood sugar levels low enough to cause hypoglycemia, which in severe cases can induce a coma.
Cancer
Aloe is not currently recommended as a treatment for cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, there has been research in which aloe has been shown to decrease cancer cells, while conflicting research shows aloe can stimulate formation of endothelial cells or blood vessels, which can actually fuel cancer growth. Some people have died as a result of aloe injections to cure their cancer, so speak to a physician about alternative and self-medication before trying anything on your own.
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