The aloe plant's gel and latex has been used medicinally for thousands of years as medicine for skin irritations, wounds and burns. The gel is the clear jelly in the leaf, and latex is located just under the plant's skin and is yellow in color. Aloe gel is most commonly used because taking aloe latex orally can cause severe intestinal cramps or diarrhea and is not recommended. According to University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), aloe "contains substances known as glycoproteins and polysaccharides. Glycoproteins speed the healing process by stopping pain and inflammation, while polysaccharides stimulate skin growth and repair. These substances may also stimulate the immune system."
Step 1
Cut the leaf of an aloe plant and remove the gel from the inside. You can eat it by the teaspoon or cut it into smaller pieces and add it to 8 oz. of water to dilute. Aloe gel is bitter in taste.
Step 2
Use aloe vera gel in capsule form. Take the recommended amount with water. Take it after eating or as recommended.
Step 3
Drink aloe vera gel in juice form. You can purchase aloe juice as a prepared beverage. Drink as is or add to vegetable or fruit smoothies.
Tips and Warnings
- Preliminary studies suggest that aloe vera juice, from the gel, may help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Some of the aloe vera juice contains sugar. If you are sensitive to sugar or have diabetes, purchase a sugar-free aloe vera juice. If you are allergic to garlic, onions, tulips or other plants of the Liliaceae family, you may have allergic reactions to aloe. You can buy aloe vera leaf, aloe vera capsules and aloe vera juice at your local supermarket, health food store or on the Internet. Always use the recommended amount for each product.
- Interactions can occur between aloe vera gel and certain medications. Consult with a qualified health care professional before eating aloe vera gel. According to MayoClinic.com, "People with thyroid disorders, kidney disease, heart disease, or electrolyte abnormalities should also use oral aloe only under medical supervision." Women who are breastfeeding should not use aloe. UMMC notes that "Pregnant women should never take aloe latex because it may cause uterine contractions and trigger miscarriage. Nursing mothers should not take aloe latex either because the effects and safety for infants and children are not known."
