Several types of disease-causing herpes viruses exist. Herpes simplex virus 1 causes mild skin outbreaks, generally in the form of cold sores around the lips, while herpes simplex virus 2 is the primary cause of genital herpes. Herpes zoster causes shingles and chicken pox. Although conventional medical professionals commonly prescribe acyclovir to treat herpes, practitioners of alternative medicine claim that aloe offers a beneficial first line of defense against the disease. Always consult your physician, however, before implementing any herbal therapy.
About Aloe
More than 200 species of aloe, or aloe vera, grow in dry regions around the world. The perennial herb reaches heights of 24 inches and features spikes of yellow or orange flowers and tapered, succulent leaves, the source of its medicinal powers. Primarily known as a skin moisturizer, herbalists use aloe gel, juice and latex for a variety of ailments, including stomach disorders, ulcers, constipation, skin disorders, herpes and the management of AIDS.
Pros
Research conducted in 1984 at the University of Maryland and given a United States patent in 1987 showed that aloe emodin, an active compound extracted from aloe gel, sap or leaves, has significant effects on both herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2. According to patent documents, when applied topically, aloe emodin's antiviral effects appear to kill viruses that cause herpes. Aloe emodin also works as a non-toxic anti-herpes agent, an advantage over certain toxic prescribed drugs.
Cons
A 1999 British review of 10 aloe-related studies conducted by scientists at the University of Exeter, however, indicated only modest results. Researchers concluded that the possibility exists that topical aloe may effectively treat genital herpes, but pointed out that aloe's effectiveness remains unclear. Furthermore, according to a 2011 article published in "The Internet Journal of Microbiology," while aloe seems to help relieve herpes simplex and herpes zoster, effective aloe products must contain a minimum of 70 percent aloe gel concentration. The need for preservatives in the manufacturing process makes this difficult to accomplish. Additionally, excess heat and filtering during the manufacturing process reduces the effects of certain key compounds contained in aloe.
Cautions
Generally considered safe when applied topically, aloe gel can cause a skin rash. Take oral aloe latex for short-term use only. Long-term use can cause electrolyte imbalances, especially potassium loss, which can lead to heart problems. Aloe latex can interfere with the absorption of certain drugs, including diuretics, digoxin and diabetes medications. It can also produce intestinal cramps, diarrhea, uterine contractions and miscarriage. Children, pregnant and nursing women, diabetics and people with heart conditions should avoid taking aloe internally.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aloe
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herpes Simplex Virus
- "The British Journal of General Practice"; Aloe Vera: A Systematic Review of its Clinical Effectiveness; B.K. Vogler, et al.; October 1999
- "United States Patent"; Aloe Emodin and Other Anthraquinones and Anthraquinone-like Compounds From Plants Virucidal Against Herpes Simplex Virusues; Robert J. Sydiskis, et al.; June 2, 1987
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Aloe Vera
- "The Internet Journal of Microbiology"; Biologic Effects Of Aloe Vera Gel; Nidhi Kathuria, et al.; 2011
