Aloe is used topically to treat various skin conditions and orally for constipation, diabetes, arthritis, stomach ulcers and as a general tonic, among other uses. When the clear gel inside the leaf is used topically to treat burns, wounds and other skin problems, it is probably safe for most people, reports MedlinePlus. But taking aloe juice -- or particularly aloe latex, a yellow, bitter liquid extracted from the skin of the aloe leaf -- orally for constipation and other problems may be unsafe, particularly at high doses. You should consult your doctor before using aloe.
Topical Use
When used topically, aloe gel causes few side effects, but occasionally it may cause some burning or itching. It can cause an allergic reaction with symptoms of hives or rash, particularly in people who are allergic to garlic, onions, tulips, or other members of the Liliaceae plant family. Aloe gel is most appropriate for minor burns and skin problems and should not be applied to an open or deep wound, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Internal Use
Taking aloe latex by mouth can cause cramps, stomach pain and diarrhea. Long-term use of high doses of aloe latex can cause kidney problems, blood in the urine, low potassium, muscle and heart problems and weight loss. Taking 1 g of aloe latex a day for several days in a row can actually be fatal, according to MedlinePlus. If you are taking any aloe product by mouth, including aloe juice, read the label to see if it contains any aloe latex. Many aloe products are made from the whole leaf, which includes both latex and gel. There have been rare reports of liver problems in people taking aloe leaf extract. Taking aloe internally as a laxative for more than seven days may make you dependent on it or worsen your constipation when you stop taking the aloe, according to MayoClinic.com.
Precautions
If you are pregnant, do not take aloe by mouth, either aloe latex or gel, because it might cause miscarriage or birth defects. Women who are breast-feeding should not take aloe internally, because its safety has not been determined. Using aloe gel on the skin is probably safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women, however.
Aloe may lower blood sugar levels, which could cause problems if you have diabetes. If you have diabetes, do not take any aloe product by mouth without talking to your doctor first and carefully monitoring your blood sugar levels. Also, because of its effect on blood sugar, aloe may cause complications if you are having surgery. Stop taking aloe two weeks before your procedure is scheduled, and let your doctor know you were on it. If you have hemorrhoids or an intestinal disease like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, any product containing aloe latex may worsen your condition. Do not take aloe latex if you have kidney problems, as high doses have been linked to kidney failure and other complications. If you have heart disease, electrolyte imbalances or a thyroid condition, you should not take aloe products by mouth without consulting your doctor first. The aloe could cause low potassium, other electrolyte problems, or blood sugar problems that could worsen your condition.
Interactions
Aloe may interact with certain medications in ways that increase the risk of side effects or change the effectiveness of your prescription. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using aloe if you take any diabetes medications, hydrocortisone, digoxin, sevoflurane, stimulant laxatives, blood thinners like warfarin or heparin, and diuretics, or water pills.
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