Aloe vera has a long history of human use, dating back 6,000 years to ancient Egyptian when it was a burial gift for pharaohs, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. People currently use it for health benefits in topical gel form and as a drinkable juice, and it is generally safe for adults, but internal consumption may be bad for children.
Uses
Aloe vera is most commonly known as a way to speed cut and burn healing. The clear gel found inside the plant's leaves is applied topically to wounds and burns, or you can purchase various commercial ointments that contain aloe vera. The plant's gel is also used in some sunblocks and post-sunburn topical treatments. Aloe vera juice has a laxative effect, so some people take it to treat constipation.
Children
Aloe vera juice consumption has not been studied in children, so MayoClinic.com recommends that youngsters under age 18 should not take this product internally. The juice has some known potential bad side effects, like lowering blood sugar and causing diarrhea and cramps, that can happen in children as well as adults. Use of topical aloe vera gel to treat burns and cuts is safe for all ages, but studies show that the gel may slow healing of very deep wounds, like surgical incisions. Limit aloe vera's use to shallower wounds, on which it is known to be effective.
Allergies
Aloe vera causes problems in children and adults with certain allergies when used on the skin or taken internally, MayoClinic.com warns. People who are allergic to plants in of the Liliaceae family, like onions, garlic and tulips, should not use aloe vera topically or drink its juice. Prolonged use of aloe vera gel on the skin can eventually lead to hives and a rash similar to the skin condition eczema.
Considerations
Aloe vera is approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a natural food flavoring. This approval covers all ages, so children can safely eat products flavored with the plant. Aloe vera's use as a flavoring is not widespread in commercial products.
Warning
A two-year study on rats by the National Toxicology Program showed that ongoing oral consumption of aloe vera may contribute to intestinal tumors. This study provided preliminary evidence that aloe vera could be linked to cancer when taken internally, but further research is needed to draw definitive conclusions, the the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine advises.
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