What Is Aloe Vera Juice Used For?

Mar 28, 2011 | By Sarah Dray

Aloe vera is a plant widely used in natural medicine. Native to arid areas, it is now grown all around the world. Aloe vera has many purported benefits, but few studies exist to prove them. Aloe vera juice is made by mixing aloe vera gel with water. If you have a serious medical condition, talk to your doctor before using aloe vera as it can interact with some medications.

Skin Conditions

Aloe vera gel is the preferred choice for treating skin conditions, but aloe vera juice is also an option. Aloe vera juice can be used to wash or freshen large sections of skin. Applying aloe vera juice to skin can help relieve allergies, itchiness and rashes. According to a 2007 study published in the "Burns" Journal, aloe vera also is an effective treatment for second-degree burns.

Gastrointestinal Issues

The main use of aloe vera juice is to treat gastrointestinal issues. Drinking aloe vera juice can help with heartburn, treat constipation and ease symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Diabetes

Aloe vera juice can help regulate blood sugar. In a 2009 study published in the journal "Phytomedicine," researchers point out that patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes experienced a reduction in their glucose after eight weeks of taking aloe vera. Patients taking aloe vera also had lower triglycerides and fewer symptoms related to elevated blood sugar.

Other Uses

Aloe vera juice can be used to treat a number of other conditions, such as obesity, herpes and inflammation, both internal and external. Aloe vera can cause uterine contractions, so pregnant women should talk to their doctors before taking any aloe vera product, including juice.