Aloe Vera Supplement Uses, Benefits, Dosages & Side Effects

The spiked leaves of aloe vera plants have been used for thousands of years as a natural medicine and topical skin remedy.

Traditional uses for the gelatinous interior of aloe leaf include treating burns and wounds, relieving skin irritations and stimulating bowel movements.

Throughout the late 1700s and 1800s, aloe was one of the most-prescribed medicines in the US; and it continues to be one of the most-used herbs worldwide.

Aloe is sometimes considered a cure-all plant with myriad uses. However, most of the medicinal uses for aloe have not been substantiated by research. [1, 2, 3]

Especially over the past decade, research studies on aloe have been conducted to evaluate many of its traditional uses. However, more research is needed to understand the ways that aloe works in humans, and the possible health benefits it may offer as a dietary supplement.

This article will review some of the current data from research concerning the phytonutrient (plant chemical) constituents, mechanisms of action, uses, possible benefits, suggested dosages, side effects and drug interactions of aloe vera.

Aloe Vera

Plant Extract

Skin Care

Acne

Consti-pation

How It Works:

• Exhibits anti-inflammatory & soothing properties
• Promotes digestive function
• Improves healing of skin conditions

Dosage:

50mg - 200mg extract per day

Safety:

Varies depending on usage & dosage

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Aloe Vera Plant Description

Aloe is a botanical genus comprised of more than 500 distinct species, all of which are succulents.

Aloe grows in dry, hot tropical and subtropical locations across the world – like North and South Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. Aloe also grows in the US in Texas, Florida and Arizona. [1, 2]

Most species of aloe are cactus-like, short shrubs that develop rosettes of spearlike, erect leaves.

Aloe leaves grow up to 3 feet long. Inside, they are comprised of a clear gel that contains various compounds of interest to researchers. [1]

Peripheral bundle sheath cells, found just underneath the leaf skin, secrete a very bitter, yellow juice called aloe latex. This is also used for certain therapeutic purposes. [1]

What is Aloe Vera Gel Used for?

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) reports dozens of uses for oral aloe vera supplements. Some of these include: [4]

• Inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis;
• Radiation-related mucositis;
• Itching and inflammation;
• Gastroduodenal ulcers;
• Weight loss;

NMCD states that aloe is also used orally for diabetes, hepatitis, asthma, fever, osteoarthritis, and as a general tonic. Fresh, whole leaves of aloe are used orally for treating cancer.

These uses are based on traditional medicine practices; this herbal product has not been approved by the FDA as a drug for the treatment of any medical conditions.

Aloe gel and extract are both used for genital herpes (herpes simplex virus), dry skin, burns and sunburn, and an autoimmune condition called psoriasis. The extract is also applied to the skin to repel insects. [4]

Aloe Latex Uses

Aloe latex is used less frequently than the gel is. It is used for vision problems, varicose veins, bursitis (inflamed bursa), depression, hemorrhoids and glaucoma.

Aloe latex is also used for epilepsy, amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), MS (multiple sclerosis), common cold and bleeding. [4]

Aloe latex used to be popularly recommended as a laxative for treating constipation. However, this is no longer recommended because of safety concerns (more below). [1]

Aloe vera gel is used topically for various purposes, including: [4]

• Radiation-induced skin toxicity;
• Posthemorrhoidectomy pain;
• Burning mouth syndrome;
• Oral submucous fibrosis;
• Seborrheic dermatitis;

Aloe is also used topically for acne, dental plaque, diaper rash, frostbite, scabies and pressure ulcers. It is also applied topically for gingivitis, wound healing, osteoarthritis, hemorrhoids, inflammation, and a skin rash called lichen planus.

How does Aloe Vera Work inside the Body?

Various constituents can be extracted from aloe vera leaf. Different forms of this plant contain unique amounts of these constituents, and therefore induce distinct pharmacological effects. [4]

Aloe latex drains out from severed leaves, and solidifies to form granules known as “aloes”. Aloe “sap” and “juice” products are normally formulated using these granules. [4]

Some supplements contain constituents from crushed leaves; meaning both aloe gel and aloe latex are included.

Aloe gel and aloe latex contain different phytonutrients. NMCD states that the latex contains roughly 30% anthraquinone glycosides – like barbaloin (aloin), isobarbaloin, and emodin. [4]

Aloe latex also contains aglycones (free anthraquinones) including aloe-emodin, anthranol, and chrysophanic acid. The latex also contains a glycosylated chromone called aloesin, and resins. [4]

Some preliminary evidence suggests that anthraquinones might cause cellular mutations. These mutations may cause cancer. Anthraquinones may also cause existing tumors to grow. This might occur due to: [4]

• Intercalation of the tricyclic anthraquinone structure into DNA;
• Inhibition of an enzyme called topoisomerase II;
• Induction of cell signaling and growth;

However, data concerning the possible mutagenic and carcinogenic effects of anthraquinones are conflicting. More research is necessary to understand how aloe latex might affect cells and/or existing tumors.

Aloe gel supplements are used more than latex products. This may be due to the concerns over anthraquinone constituents found in the latex. The gel contains no anthraquinones.

Aloe vera gel is known to contain various compounds of interest to researchers, including: [4]

• Monosaccharides and polysaccharides;
• Arachidonic acid;
• Salicylic acid;
• Amino acids;
• Saponins;
• Tannins;
• Sterols;
• Lipids;

Aloe vera gel also contains vitamins, minerals – and various enzymes including cyclooxygenase, amylase, lipase, alkaline phosphatase, and carboxypeptidase

Bradykinin is a peptide that mediates inflammatory responses. It causes the blood vessels to expand in a process called vasodilation, which subsequently can lower blood pressure. Bradykinin also is known to cause pain in the body.

Salicylate and carboxypeptidase constituents of aloe gel are able to inhibit the activity of bradykinin, and possibly help to alleviate some types of pain. [4]

One possible cause for itching is the release of a proinflammatory compound called histamine. Histamine is released in response to trauma, injury or allergy. It causes smooth muscle tissue to relax, and vasodilation.

Aloe gel contains magnesium lactate, which is believed to alleviate itching by inhibiting histamine release.. [4]

The C-glucosyl chromone component of the gell seems to be able to decrease topical redness and swelling. [4]

The topical application of this product is effective for treating cutaneous (skin) burns, including sunburn. This may occur due to inhibition of the production of a vasoconstrictor (constricts blood vessels) called thromboxane A2. [4]

By slowing production of thromboxane A2, aloe gel might increase microcirculation in tiny blood vessels called capillaries.

This can help to prevent inadequate blood supply (ischemia) in tissues and organs, especially the heart muscle. It is also thought to enhance healing of burns, and frostbite. [4]

In-vitro evidence suggests that aloe gel has antioxidant effects. It has decreased levels of proinflammatory compounds like IL-8 (interleukin-8) and prostaglandin E2 in colorectal cells.

Researchers think this might be the reason that this plant seems to benefit inflammatory bowel conditions. [4]

Pentoxifylline is a xanthine derivative used as a drug used for pain, cramping, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs, especially in those with intermittent claudication and PAD (peripheral artery disease). [4]

In animal research, aloe vera gel seems more beneficial than pentoxifylline for improving tissue survival in frostbite. These two agents might work synergistically, as using both together works better than using either by itself. [4]

In psoriasis, aloe gel seems to reduce plaques by decreasing desquamation (skin peeling), erythema (redness), and psoriatic infiltration. [4]

Aloe vera gel is also thought to have antifungal and antibacterial properties. [4]

Aloe Vera Health Benefits

Like many others, aloe vera is an herb with nearly endless health claims. However, aloe has been studied more rigorously than many other plant medicines. Following are some of the possible health benefits of aloe vera that have at least some degree of clinical validation.

Aloe for Constipation:

One of the most popular uses for aloe is relieving constipation. The German Commission E supports aloe latex for this use. Latex doses between 50-200 mg daily, in capsule or liquid form, are commonly used for up to 10 days. [1]

However, because of its anthraquinone content, this product is no longer generally recommended for constipation relief. This is because anthraquinones form anthrones inside the colon, and anthrones cause irritation to mucous membranes. [4]

Irritation to mucous membranes causes increased secretion of mucous, increased mineral and fluid secretions into the lumen of the small intestine – and feelings of distention prompting evacuation.

The purgative effects of aloe latex are normally experienced within 10 hours after administration. During this process, reabsorption of minerals and fluids is inhibited.

This can cause potassium loss, and possible hypokalemia (low potassium). Intestinal muscle paralysis can result; making peristalsis impossible. [1]

Those that use aloe vera latex routinely for relieving constipation may find the need for increasingly larger doses to achieve the same cathartic effects. This may cause or worsen potassium and/or other mineral loss. [1]

Although NMCD rates it as Possibly Effective for constipation, it also rates it as Possibly Unsafe for oral use, and Likely Unsafe for oral use in high doses. [4]

Aloe Vera Creams for Acne:

Clinical research in both adults and children suggests that topical use of a 50% aloe gel can improve acne symptoms.

When applied twice daily, along with tretinoin gel 0.025%, and twice daily washings with medicated soap, acne was reduced by 35% more than by the same treatment minus the aloe gel. [4]

Aloe Vera Ointments Burns:

Topical use of aloe gel seems to enhance healing of 2nd degree (partial thickness) skin burns. Some data shows that aloe gel decreases mean healing times, when compared to gauze with Vaseline. [4]

Some clinical research suggests that using aloe gel along with olive oil improves pruritus (severe itching).

When applied as a cream, twice daily for 6 weeks, patients with chemical burns experienced significant reductions in fissure (skin splitting) and excoriation (skin picking). The effects were compared to those of a corticosteroid betamethasone 0.1% cream. [4]

In patients with 1st or 2nd degree burns, twice-daily topical application pf the gel decreased wound size, and healing times, similar to silver sulfadiazine or framycetin.

Aloe vera gel may work synergistically with silver sulfadiazine for treating 1st or 2nd degree burns.

You should seek medical attention if you get burned. Ask the doctor about using this plant to help the healing process after receiving professional treatment.

Aloe for Genital Herpes:

Some clinical research shows that using a 0.5% aloe extract cream, 3X-daily and 5 days weekly, for 2 weeks, decreases healing times in men with HSV lesions.

This is relative to the effects of aloe gel, or placebo. Results suggested a 7-day mean healing time reduction between an extract cream and a placebo. [4]

More research is necessary to know if this plant can safely help with HSV symptoms in most people.

Aloe Vera for Lichen Planus:

The American Academy of Dermatology states that lichen planus is a skin disorder marked by rough scaly skin; itching, blisters and/or pain. It is quite common, and causes small, shiny dark red/purple bumps, especially on the wrists. It can also manifest inside the mouth.

Some human research suggests that using 0.4 mL 70% aloe gel mouthwash 3X-daily for 12 weeks can help to reduce the pain of lichen planus inside the mouth. [4]

For skin-based lichen planus, applying a 70% aloe gel 2X-daily for 8 weeks has also improved pain.

Both treatments reduced pain up to 6 times more than a placebo did. However, these effects are questioned because the studies were designed poorly. [4]

In well-designed clinical research, applying aloe gel twice-daily for 8 weeks caused a 50% clinical improvement of lichen planus symptoms, relative to the effects of a placebo. [4]

Ask your doctor if using aloe is a good option to help manage your lichen planus symptoms.

Oral Submucous Fibrosis:

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is defined as a chronic, premalignant lesion of the oral cavity.

Preliminary human research in patients with OSF suggests that applying 5 mg of a product called Surat, three times-daily for 3 months, improves: [1][4]

• Mouth opening range by 1.6 mm;
• OSF burning sensations by 59%;
• Cheek flexibility by 0.6 cm;

Some other clinical research seems to back up the results listed above. Ask your doctor about possible benefits of aloe for oral submucous fibrosis symptoms.

Aloe Vera for Psoriasis Treatment:

Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder marked by itchy, scaly patches of skin. Using a 0.5% topical aloe extract cream, 3X-daily for 4 weeks, significantly improved plaque psoriasis symptoms, relative to a placebo agent. [4]

Some preliminary research suggests that using a 70% aloe mucilage extract 3X-daily for 8 weeks works better for improving psoriasis symptoms than a 0.1% triamcinolone cream. [4]

It is best to discuss psoriasis treatment options with your doctor before beginning to use this product.

Other Conditions:

Aloe vera is being studied in various other health conditions. It has not been found to be reliably effective in any of them. Research continues to explore the potential health benefits and safety of this natural medicine.

If you have any condition that you feel aloe can benefit, then you should discuss usage with your primary healthcare provider before beginning to use a supplement.

Aloe Vera Supplements

Many people grow their own aloe plants at home, and simply harvest a leaf when desired for therapeutic use.

However, aloe gel and latex supplements are available as tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, juices, ointments, creams and lotions. NMCD reports that there are 1650 different products that claim to contain this popular herbaceous plant. [4]

Take your time choosing the best aloe supplement for you. Look for organic supplements that have not been genetically modified.

Aloe Vera Dosage

The suggested adult doses for aloe that follow are compiled from research, traditional usage, expert opinions and other sources: [1][4]

• 120 milliliter dose of a solution containing 1200 milligrams of aloe for heart disease;
• Aloe extract cream, 3X-daily, 5 days weekly for 2 weeks for genital herpes lesions;
• 10-20 mL aloe orally for 12 weeks for hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol);
• 100 mL aloe gel, 2X-daily for 4 weeks for IBD (inflammatory bowel disease);
• Freeze-dried aloe extract applied to forearms daily for 2 weeks for dry skin;
• One tablespoon aloe gel by mouth, twice daily for 42 months for diabetes;
• 300 mg aloe extract capsule, twice daily for 2 months for diabetes;
• 5-15 milliliters of aloe juice twice daily for diabetes;

Many other doses for aloe supplements have been used. Ask your doctor about the best dose, if any, for you.

Closely follow label directions for dosing unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

Aloe Vera Side Effects

NMCD reports that no significant side effects have been reported in association with aloe vera gel. [4]

Aloe latex can cause leg cramps and abdominal pain. Chronic use or abuse of aloe latex supplements can cause diarrhea, potassium loss, hypokalemia, muscle weakness, weight loss, heart disturbances and/or other side effects. [4]

Aloe Vera Interactions

Aloe supplements might interact with antiplatelets/anticoagulants, antidiabetes medications, diuretics (water pills), stimulant laxatives and digoxin. [1]

Aloe might interact with herbs and supplements with blood-thinning and/or blood glucose-lowering potentials. [4]

Some of these include angelica, clove, danshen, fenugreek, feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, Panax ginseng, poplar, red clover and turmeric. Some others are alpha-lipoic acid, bitter melon, chromium, devil’s claw, guar gum, horse chestnut, psyllium and Siberian ginseng. [4]

As with all dietary supplements, it is best to discuss using aloe vera products with a doctor who understands your health history beforehand. Be sure to disclose all medications you take to the doctor.

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