Aloe juice or aloe latex is a tart liquid that comes from the skin of the aloe leaf. Aloe juice or aloe latex is suggested to prevent and treat a variety of conditions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Aloe juice contains vitamins and other nutrients. Talk to your health care provider before using aloe vera juice for medicinal purposes.
History
The aloe vera is a perennial plant grown in the Caribbean, Latin America, South Africa and other tropical locations. The large, spear-like leaves of the aloe vera plant can grow up to three feet long. Aloe vera has been used medicinally for hundreds of years and continues to be one of the most often used herbs in the United States, according to the UMMC.
Possible Benefits
Aloe vera juice may help regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, notes the UMMC. Aloe vera is also suggested to control blood pressure, improve circulation, relieve constipation and enhance the immune system. Check with your health care provider about the benefits of aloe vera juice for these and other conditions.
Nutrients
Aloe vera contains vitamins A, B-1, B-2 , C, D and E. Aloe vera also has plant sterols that may help prevent heart disease, reports the Cleveland Clinic. Sterols help stop the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine. Aloe vera possesses phytochemicals known as saponins which may improve the immune system, cholesterol levels and bone health. Gamolenic acid is an essentially fatty acid also found in aloe vera, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Essential fatty acids may help guard against heart disease, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Dosing
Aloe vera can be obtained in tablets, capsules or juice. A typical dosage is of aloe vera juice is2 oz to 4 oz daily. Aloe is also available as a topical cream or gel that can be applied topically to relieve minor skin irritations.
Precautions
Possible side effects linked to aloe vera include nausea and allergic reactions. Oral consumption of aloe juice or aloe latex is not advised because it may cause diarrhea or severe intestinal cramping, cautions the UMMC. Aloe juice may also prompt uterine contractions in pregnant women and lead to miscarriage. As always, check with your health care provider before using herbal remedies to prevent or treat medical conditions.
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