Aloe vera has been a go-to remedy for minor injuries like burns and minor wounds for centuries. The worst side effect reported was a mild rash. Now that aloe juice is being sold for oral use as a laxative, the negative side effects of the plant are coming to light, and there are many of them. The difference is in the how the plant is used. The pure gel is still safe for topical use, but drinks that use the whole plant can be quite dangerous.
Natural vs. Processed
For many things, using the form closest to that found in nature is best. The same is not true for aloe vera. Preparations methods vary, but the liquid forms of aloe that are sold to be used orally frequently contain portions of the whole plant. The ones that are labeled "natural" have undergone minimal processing, which means the product is closer to its natural state, which is not a good thing. Natural aloe may contain aloe latex, which is no longer recommended for oral use.
Aloe Latex
Aloe latex is the layer between the outer skin of the aloe leaf and the gel. It has been use in the past as a laxative, but used over time, a larger and larger dose is required to experience relief. This can easily become dangerous, because according to MedlinePlus, using a gram per day can turn fatal in a few days. The National Institute of Environmental Health Services' National Toxicology Program found that the use of non-decolorized--or unprocessed--aloe juice caused intestinal tumors in rats. It is thought to be the result of aloin, found in the aloe latex--and the concentration used in the study is about the same concentration found in some aloe drinks. Unfortunately, manufacturers are not required to label the aloin content in their drinks, so the jury is still out on whether these drinks are safe.
Contraindications
Drinking aloe can potentially cause miscarriage or birth defects in pregnant women and may cause abdominal pain and diarrhea in children. Diabetics should consult their doctor before taking aloe, as it can lower blood sugar and affect their insulin dose. If you have hemorrhoids, intestinal disorders, or kidney problems, the oral use of aloe may make your condition worse. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that cases of hepatitis have been linked to oral aloe, but the connection has not been proven.
Drug Interactions
As a laxative, aloe may interfere with the absorption of any medication you are taking. It also lowers potassium levels, which intensifies the effects of diuretics and digoxins--don't use aloe if you are taking these medications. If you are taking blood thinners, laxatives or diabetes medications, consult your doctor before using aloe to avoid a potentially serious drug interaction.
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