The aloe vera plant mainly is known for the gel it contains that can help soothe irritated skin. The latex of the aloe plant -- a substance under the plant's skin -- also gets used internally to alleviate constipation. Its strong laxative effect means it is not safe for use by women who are pregnant. Even when you are not pregnant, you should not use aloe juice unless you have first consulted with a doctor.
Use During Pregnancy
You should not use aloe juice or any other oral aloe latex supplement while you are pregnant, MedlinePlus warns. At least one instance of a miscarriage has been linked to its use. In addition, internal use of aloe may increase your baby's risk for having birth defects. You should also not use aloe internally while breastfeeding. Topical use of aloe vera gel, however, is safe while you are pregnant. To help prevent miscarriage, preterm labor and birth defects, you should always consult with your doctor before taking any medications, supplements or vitamins while pregnant.
How It Works
Aloe juice is a strong laxative because it stimulates contractions of the bowels, the University of Michigan Health System reports. This alleviates constipation, but may also contribute to diarrhea. Aloe has long been used as a laxative, but the Food and Drug Administration prohibited the sale of laxative medications containing aloe latex in 2002 because of the risks associated with long-term use. Although it serves as an effective treatment for constipation, over time your body will need more aloe latex to produce the same result, and this can have dangerous consequences.
Side Effects
The way aloe juice affects the gastrointestinal tract can cause some bothersome side effects, even when used safely at recommended doses. You may develop stomach cramps and stomach pain, along with diarrhea, MedlinePlus reports. Long-term use of high doses can cause serious problems, such as kidney problems, a low potassium level, cardiac disturbances, weight loss, muscle weakness and blood in the urine.
Precautions
You should never use aloe juice while pregnant or breastfeeding, but there are other medical conditions that preclude its use as well. In people with kidney disease, oral use of aloe latex may worsen the condition or cause kidney failure. It can also affect blood-sugar levels, so people with diabetes should use it only under the care of a doctor, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports. In addition, it's not safe for people with ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease or other irritable bowel conditions because it can worsen bowel problems. Finally, you should use it if you have hemorrhoids because it may make your condition worse. Do not ever use aloe juice without first consulting with a doctor who can tell you whether it is safe for you.
Member Comments