can aloe vera cause cancer?

 If Aloe Causes Cancer, Why Is It In Skincare?

The Aloe plant is employed as a dietary supplement in a variety of foods and as an ingredient in cosmetic products. The widespread human exposure and its potential toxic and carcinogenic activities raise safety concerns. Chemical analysis reveals that the Aloe plant contains various polysaccharides and phenolic chemicals, notably anthraquinones. Ingestion of Aloe preparations is associated with diarrhea, hypokalemia, pseudomelanosis coli, kidney failure, as well as phototoxicity and hypersensitive reactions. Recently, Aloe vera whole leaf extract showed clear evidence of carcinogenic activity in rats, and was classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a possible human carcinogen (Group 2B). This review presents updated information on the toxicological effects, including the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and adverse clinical effects of Aloe vera whole leaf extract, gel, and latex.

Keywords: Aloe gel, aloe latex, Aloe vera, carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, toxicological effects

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1. Introduction

The use of herbal products has been growing rapidly in the general population. In 2007, the National Health Interview Survey reported that approximately 40% of Americans, including adults and children, used complementary and alternative medicine as alternative therapy in the past 12 months.[1] About US $14.8 billion was spent on the purchase of nonvitamin, nonmineral natural products, which accounted for 44% of all out-of-pocket costs for complementary and alternative medicine.[2] Aloe has enjoyed a long history of providing a myriad of health benefits, and is one of the most frequently used herbal remedies employed throughout the world. There are more than 400 species of Aloe, but the most popular and widely used species is Aloe barbadensis Miller (also called Aloe vera Linne, commonly referred to Aloe vera). Aloe is derived from the Arabic word alloeh meaning “bitter and shiny substance,” and vera from the Latin word for “truth.” Other species used in health and medicine include but are not limited to Aloe arborescens Miller (a member of the asphodelacea family), Aloeperryi Baker, Aloe andongensis, and Aloe ferox.[3,4]

Aloe vera, a genus within the Liliaceae family, is a stemless or very short-stemmed perennial succulent or xerophyte with elongated and peaked leaves in which large amounts of water are stored in the tissue.[5] The green fleshy leaves range in height from a few centimeters to 2-3 meters or more and have three identifiable layers. The outer layer is a thick cuticle or rind accounting for about 20%−30% by weight of the whole plant leaf. It consists of upto 18 layers of cells interspersed with chloroplasts where carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are synthesized. The outer leaf pulp, a thin, mucilaginous layer just beneath and adjacent to the thick rind, contains vascular bundles acting as the transport system for the plants. Three types of tubular structures compose the vascular bundles: xylem, which moves water and minerals from the roots to the leaves; phloem, which takes synthesized minerals to the roots; and the pericyclic tubule, which stores and transports bitter yellow latex (often referred to as Aloe sap) along the margin of the leaf. The number of these bundles varies based on the size of leaves.[6] The inner leaf pulp makes up the majority of the plant by volume, and is composed of large thin-walled parenchymal cells containing Aloe vera gel, a synonym to inner leaf, inner leaf fillet, or fillet.

Is Aloe safe?

Aloe contains pharmacologically active ingredients associated with diverse biological activities including fungicidal, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, laxative, immunomodulating, and anticancer effects.[3] Aloe vera, known as the “plant of immortality” in early Egypt, has been used as a traditional medicine in Arab, Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Indian, Japanese, Korean, and Roman cultures[7,8] for more than 2000 years to empirically treat a broad list of disorders and ailments, such as skin problems (wounds, x-ray and radium burns, and psoriasis), constipation, external and internal ulcers, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and lupus erythematosus.[9-12] Due to the numerous purported beneficial effects, Aloe vera production has been an emerging industry for making laxative drugs, cosmetics, and functional food, such as face and hand creams, foundations, cleansers, lipsticks, suntan lotions, shampoos and hair tonics, shaving preparations, bath aids, makeup and fragrance preparations, baby lotions and wipes, yogurt, drinks, capsules, and tablets. In order to show current pharmacological and/or toxicological research status on Aloe, we performed a literature search in PubMed using “Aloe” and specific country names as key words (Table 1). A total of 1895 and 975 publications were identified when using “Aloe” as key word in All Fields Not Author and MeSH term databases, respectively. More than half (51%−60%) of these studies were conducted in the top 10 countries (Table 1), and about one third of them are from five Asian countries, including China, India, Japan, Korea, and Iran. However, only about 8% of these articles investigated Aloe-related toxicity in vitro and in vivo (Table 1).

Table 1.

Pharmacological and/or toxicological research on Aloe based on PubMed online search.*

Country All fields# MeSH term

Aloe All 1895 975

China 267 76

India 191 90

USA 188 95

Japan 110 61

South Africa 93 47

Korea 72 44

Iran 65 22

Italy 55 22

UK 48 21

Brazil 39 21

Top 10 countries 1128 (60%) 499 (51%)

Toxicity-related 150 (8%) 81 (8%)

*Searched on July 17,2015.

#All fields but not in authors.

Although Aloe vera has long been considered as a safe functional food material that can be used orally and topically,[13] on many occasions it has not been as safe as commonly thought. Recently, the reported adverse effects in humans and toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity in both in vitro and in vivo studies raise questions as to whether the components in Aloe vera may have tumor-promoting activities in humans. Due to its widespread human exposure and concerns that some components may cause cancer, in 1998 the National Cancer Institute nominated Aloe vera as a high-priority candidate for a carcinogenicity study under the National Toxicology Program (NTP). In 2002, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final rule stating that use of Aloe as a nonprescription laxative drug is no longer generally recognized as safe and effective.[14] Recently, Aloe vera whole leaf extract has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a possible human carcinogen (Group 2B), along with other natural products such as Ginkgo biloba extract and kava extract.[15,16]

The Aloe vera whole leaf extract, as well as the two primary components (the gel and the latex or exudates) of the leaf, have been used for various reasons in traditional medicine. Generally, the gel is used topically to soothe wounds, burns, and skin irritations, and the latex is recognized to possess cathartic effects. Nevertheless, there is still some confusion surrounding the whole leaf extract, the gel, and the latex. Given that the beneficial properties of Aloe vera have been addressed comprehensively and that the gel and the latex possess distinct components and medical purposes,[5] in this article, the whole leaf extract, the gel, and the latex associated toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity both in vitro and in vivo are reviewed, and adverse clinical effects in humans are also summarized.

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2. Aloe vera whole leaf extract

2.1. Components

Aloe vera whole leaf extract, including the gel and the latex, contains more than 200 chemical substances.[4] The raw Aloe leaf is composed of approximately 98.5% water, the remaining solid material contains a range of compounds including nutrients (e.g., carbohydrates, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals) and non-nutrients (e.g., organic acids, lignins, phenolic compounds, anthraquinones, and phytosterols). The chemical composition and the potency of the various constituents are influenced by many factors, such as species/subspecies, climate, land and irrigation, cultivation methods, harvesting, extraction processing, and storage conditions.[4,5]

Can Aloe Cure Cancer?

To determine whether the presence of the latex alters the physical and chemical properties in whole leaf extract, the decolorized Aloe vera whole leaf has been studied for its toxicity and potential carcinogenicity. The decolorized extract was prepared by activated carbon-adsorption of the whole leaf extract (1%, w/w) to remove the latex portion of the plant, mainly anthraquinones, the components giving Aloe vera its laxative properties. However, some of the high molecular weight polysaccharides of the inner leaf Aloe gel can also be removed by charcoal absorption. Chemical analysis revealed that the concentrations of aloin, the principle anthraquinone of Aloe vera latex, differed by a factor of 100 in unfiltered and filtered extracts (8 mg/g for whole extract and 0.08 mg/g for decolorized extract).[17] The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed large differences between the two extracts (Fig. 1), indicating that the activated carbon-filtration eliminated a large number of components from the extract.[18] In addition, Aloe vera decolorized leaf extract exhibited a reduction in rheological values and approximately 19%−23% lower content of complex polysaccharides than either the gel or whole extract.[5]

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Figure 1.

Representative reversed-phase HPLC profiles of Aloevera whole leaf extract and decolorized whole leaf extract. Five mg/ml samples were dissolved in Fischer’s medium with pH adjusted to 7.0-7.2. HPLC analysis was performed using a Phenomenex Prodigy 5 μmODS column (4.6 mm x 250 mm) eluted with methanol with a linear gradient of 20%−60% water over 30 min and 60-100% methanol over 30 min at a flow rate of 1 ml/min.

2.2. Toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity

2.2.1. Toxicity of the whole leaf extract

Logarto Parra and colleagues[19] investigated the toxicity of Aloe vera (L.) Burm. F. (Aloeaceae) extract using both in vitro and in vivo assays. Twenty-four hours following an acute oral exposure to Aloe vera dried leaf extract, the medium lethal concentration (LC50) in brine shrimp was estimated as 3.59 μg/ml and the lethal dose (LD50) in Swiss albino mice was 120.65 mg/kg. Another acute toxicity study demonstrated a maximum tolerated dose of 100 mg/kg body weight and LD50 of 250 mg/kg, when the whole Aloe vera plant powder was extracted with 50% ethanol and administered intraperitoneally to adult albino mice at an initial dose of 400 to 500 mg/kg.[20] In addition, Aloe vera whole-leaf material caused a dose-dependent decrease in the viability in HeLa and HepG2 cells with half-maximal cytotoxic concentration (CC50) values of 413.9 and 439.0 mg/ml, respectively, following a 4-h treatment.[21] It also caused a dose-dependent increase of apoptosis in HeLa cells at concentrations up to 1000 mg/ml.

In a subchronic toxicity study, 88 Sprague Dawley rats were fed Aloe whole leaf powder at doses of 2, 4, and 8 g/kg body weight (2.5%, 5%, and 10% Aloe in diet) for 90 days.[22] All dosed rats increased defecation and rats treated with the high doses also showed reduced food efficiency and body weight. Relative kidney weight was significantly increased in males exposed to 8 g/kg body weight and all dosed females. All of the exposed groups displayed a significant increase in the incidences of pigmentation in renal tubular, mesenteric lymph nodes and lamina propria of the colonic mucosa, and proliferation in mesenteric lymph nodes. Reproductive toxicity was observed after a chronic oral ingestion of 100 mg/kg Aloe vera extract per day, which is one-fifth of the pharmacologically active dose, for a period of 3 months.[23] This was manifested by significant sperm damage, hematological changes, inflammation, and mortality as compared to control animals.

As part of a 14-day drinking water study conducted by the NTP, Aloe vera nondecolorized whole leaf extract and decolorized extract were administered to groups of four male and four female F344/N rats and the same numbers of B6C3F1 mice at 7 weeks of age.[24] The malic acid content of 0.5%−3% Aloe vera whole and decolorized extract solutions was 970-5820 μg/g and 1240-7440 μg/g water, respectively, and aloin A content was 70-422 μg/g and 0.8-4.5 μg/g water, respectively. After 14 days female rats exposed to 1.5%—3% of decolorized extract displayed significantly decreased blood urea nitrogen levels, whereas rats exposed to 3% whole extract displayed reduced body weight, water consumption, gastrointestinal tract transit times, and liver, heart, spleen, thymus, and kidney weight than those of controls. Leukocyte and erythrocyte counts and hematocrit percentages were significantly elevated in both male and female rats. In contrast, only a significant increase in water consumption was observed in female mice that received 2.0% nondecolorized whole extract.[24]

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In comparison to this study, a highly purified decolorized whole leaf Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. juice (total anthraquinones < 0.1 parts per million) was administered to F344/Du rats via drinking water at concentrations up to 2% (w/v).[25] This study was designed to compare the results obtained from other in vivo studies using whole leaf extract, specifically the NTP study reported by Boudreau and colleagues.[24] No significant toxicological findings were observed after subchronic exposure for 13 weeks. A similar study also showed no toxicity in F344 rats after oral administration of a commercially available Aloe vera decolorized extract beverage up to 13 weeks, as evaluated by behavior, stools, weight gain, feed consumption, organ weights, and intestinal mucosal morphologies.[26] These results suggest that anthraquinones may be a major contributor or serve as a marker of other agent(s) for Aloe vera-induced adverse effects.[25]

2.2.2. Genotoxicity of the whole leaf extract

The genotoxicity of water extracted Aloe ferox was studied using the Bacillus sub-tilis rec-assay in the 1980s. Aloe ferox is a palm-like succulent with many sharp reddish-brown spines on the margins of the leaves, giving the plant name “ferox” that means “fierce” or “war-like” in Latin. In the absence of metabolic activation, the lengths of inhibition zones formed by 6 mg of Aloe extraction on Rec+ and Rec- strains deviated distinctly from those of negative control samples, indicating a positive response in the Bacillus subtilis spore rec-assay.[27] However, no genotoxic effects were observed in the histidine reversion Ames test and DNA repair assays using Aloe vera decolorized extract beverage at up to 21 × concentrations.[26]

Recently, Aloe vera whole extract- and decolorized extract-induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were evaluated in our laboratory using the mouse lymphoma assay (MLA).[18] This study used the same test articles that were used for the 14-day studies by the NTP.[24] After a 24-h treatment, both extracts exhibited concentration- dependent cytotoxicity and mutagenicity in the mouse lymphoma cells, with whole extract showing a positive response at lower concentrations than the decolorized extract. Molecular analysis of induced mutant colonies revealed that 77%−92% of the large colonies and 100% of the small colonies from both treatments lost heterozygosity at the Tk locus and about half of the mutants lost heterozygosity at both the Tk and D11Mit42 loci, thus affecting approximately 6-30 centimorgans of the chromosome (Fig. 2). These results indicate that the primary type of damage from both treatments was large chromosome mutations (deletions and/or mitotic recombination). In addition, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels induced by decolorized extract was about three-fold higher than that of whole extract in treated cells, suggesting that during the process of activated carbon filtration, some mutagenic components were removed from whole extract and other components with pro-oxidative or mutagenic activities, or both, might be enriched. Another important finding in this study was that the mutagenicity of the decolorized extract was detected at doses of about twice that required for whole extract-induced mutagenicity. Since the anthraquinone content was reduced by 99% in the decolorized extract relative to the whole extract, these results indicate that anthraquinones are not the only mutagenic component of these mixtures and Aloe-induced genotoxicity may not be eradicated completely by removing these chemicals from Aloe preparations.[18]

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Figure 2.

Comparison of the percentage of mutational types for all (large and small) colonies produced in cells treated with Aloe vera. Mouse lymphoma cells were treated for 24 h with 4.5 or 5 mg/ml whole leaf extract, or 8 mg/ml decolorized extract. Whole extract at 4.5 or 5 mg/ml or decolorized extract vs control, p < 0.0001; 4.5 mg/ml whole extract vs decolorized extract, p = 0.03; 4.5 mg/ml vs 5 mg/ml whole extract, p = 0.37; 5 mg/ml whole extract vs decolorized extract, p = 0.26. Data from Table 3 in [18].

Aloe Vera and Cancer - Dr. R. McDaniel

2.2.3. Carcinogenicity of the whole leaf extract

NTP Technical Report 577 described clear evidence of carcinogenic activity in F344/N rats after oral administration of Aloe vera whole leaf extract in drinking water for two years.[28] In this study, F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to 0%, 1%, 2%, or 3% (wt/wt) extract for a period of 13 weeks or 2 years. The 13-week exposure caused increased incidences of goblet cell hyperplasia in the large intestine of both rats and mice when compared to the control. The two-year study demonstrated significant dose-related increases in the incidences of adenomas and/or carcinomas of the ileocecal and cecal-colic junction, cecum, and the ascending and transverse colon in male and female rats in the high-dose groups.[28] Whole extract-induced large intestinal tumors in F344 rats and human colorectal cancers shared similar changes in morphology and in molecular pathways, such as MAPK, WNT, and TGF-β signaling.[29] In a one-year study using Wistar Hannover rats, 4% Aloe arborescens (whole leaf powder extract) in the diet resulted in diarrhea, reduced body weight gain, yellowish pigmentation of ileocecal lymph nodes and renal tubules and severe sinus dilatation of the ileocecal lymph nodes.[30] In the subsequent two-year study, adenomas or adenocarcinomas in the cecum, colon, and rectum were observed in the 4% male group, and adenomas were observed in the 4% female group. The irritation of the intestinal tract may contribute to the equivocal carcinogenic potential in the colon.[31] Due to the potential phototoxicity of herbal products,[32] Aloe whole leaf or decolorized whole leaf creams was applied topically in male and female SKH-1 hairless mice for one year.[33] Both products showed a weak enhancing effect on the photocarcinogenic activity of simulated solar light, as manifested by significantly increased histopathologically-determined squamous cell neoplasm in some mice.

2.3. Adverse clinical effects of the whole leaf extract in humans

Topical and oral use of Aloe vera can cause skin irritation, hives, cramping, and diarrhea to those who are allergic to other plants in the lily family, for example, onion and tulips. Several case reports on toxicity or hypersensitivity of Aloe products in humans are available, but there are no published controlled toxicology stud- ies.[34] A 35-year-old woman experienced massive intraoperative bleeding after oral consumption of Aloe vera tablets for two weeks before the surgery for leg pain. Compounds contained within Aloe vera can reduce the synthesis of prostaglandin, thus inhibiting secondary aggregation of platelets. Sevoflurane, a general anesthetic, inhibits thromboxane A(2) formation by suppressing cyclooxygenase activity. Since both sevoflurane and Aloe vera have antiplatelet effects, the bleeding could have been due to a possible herb-drug interaction between Aloe vera and sevoflurane.[35] A 47-year-old man developed acute oliguric renal failure and liver dysfunction after ingestion of Cape Aloes, a previously described nephrotoxin.[36]

Hepatotoxicity is considered one of the most reported adverse effects caused by herbal dietary supplements.[37] The first case of acute hepatitis due to the ingestion of Aloe vera compound was reported in 2005 in Germany.[38] Afterward, cases of Aloe-induced toxic hepatitis were reported in Turkey,[39] United States,[40] Argentina,[41], and Korea.[42] A total of six females and two males were admitted to hospital for acute hepatitis after taking Aloe preparation over 3-260 weeks.[43] Their clinical manifestation, liver biopsy, and laboratory findings supported the diagnosis of toxic hepatitis. All eight patients showed improved conditions after discontinuing this medication. These cases emphasize the importance of considering phytophar- maceutical over-the-counter drugs as causative agents in hepatotoxicity.

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3. Aloe vera latex or exudate

3.1. Components

Aloe vera latex or exudate is distributed within vascular bundles located between the plant’s outer skin (rind) and the pulp. The pericyclic tubules, one of the three types of tubular structures of vascular bundles, store and transport Aloe vera latex along the margin of the leaf. The latex is yellow-brownish in color and has a bitter taste. About 80 chemical constituents have been isolated by liquid chromatography in the latex, and most of the compounds are phenolic in nature, mainly anthraquinone C- glycosides, anthrones, and free anthraquinones.[44,45] Barbaloin, also known as aloin A, is identified as the major constituent in the latex.[5,46] The other three main components are isobarbaloin (aloin B), aloesin (aloeresin B), and aloeresin A.[47] The latex also contains several other anthraquinones/anthrones and chromones including aloe-emodin, aloeresin E, aloenin,[44] as well as some aromatic compounds, for example, aldehydes (butanal, pentanal, etc.) and ketones (2-butanone, 2-heptanone, etc.).[47]

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3.2. Toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity

Aloe vera latex contains a number of biologically active compounds, notably anthraquinones. Various in vitro and in vivo assays have been performed to evaluate the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity of the chemical components contained within the latex, most especially aloe-emodin, aloin, emodin, and dan- thron.

3.2.1. Toxicity of the latex

The cytotoxicity of aloe-emodin has been investigated intensively. Aloe-emodin induced apoptosis through various mechanisms, including a p53-dependent pathway in T24 human bladder cancer cells[48] and G2/M cell cycle arrest in human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells.[49] During the apoptosis process induced by aloe-emodin and emodin in human lung squamous carcinoma cells (CH27) and human lung nonsmall cell carcinoma cells (H460), increases in cytosolic cytochrome c, caspase-3 activation, and changes of protein kinase c (PKC) isozymes were observed.[50] This study also demonstrated that PKC stimulation occurred at a site downstream of caspase-3 in the emodin-mediated apoptotic pathway. Another study demonstrated that aloe-emodine significantly inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in adult human keratinocytes.[51] The impairment of ker- atinocyte proliferation could be observed at concentrations far below the industry standards for commercial products containing Aloe extract.

The toxicity of aloin was evaluated in human Jurkat T lymphocytes using flow cytometry and microscopy.[52] Aloin treatment resulted in decreased cell size, increased granularity, a block at the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, and loss of both membrane integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting a mitochondrial-dependent pathway for aloin-induced apoptosis. UP780, a standardized composition of aloe chromone aloesin formulated with an Aloe vera inner leaf fillet, showed a no-observed-adverse-effect-level in CD-1 mice with oral administration of UP780 at doses of 2 g/kg/d for 14 days or up to 1 g/kg/d for 90 days.[53]

3.2.2. Genotoxicity of the latex

The genotoxicity of some anthraquinones has been confirmed in a variety of in vitro and in vivo assay systems. A high proportion of anthraquinones was reported to be mutagenic in a number of strains of Salmonella typhimurium, for example, TA1537, TA1538, TA102, and TA98.[54-56] These strains are particularly sensitive to frameshift mutagens. Danthron and aloe-emodin were positive in strain TA1357 both with and without metabolic activation.[55] Aloe-emodin also induced increased revertant colonies in strains TA 1537, TA 1538, and TA 98.[57] Muller and colleagues[58] investigated the genotoxicity of three anthraquinones, emodin, danthron, and aloe-emodin using the MLA, micronucleus test, and the Comet assay. At micromolar concentrations, all three compounds induced concentration- dependent increases in micronuclei and moderate increases in mutant frequency in L5178Y cells. Danthron and aloe-emodin also increased DNA breaks at a concentration of 50 μM in the Comet assay. The genotoxicity and mutagenicity induced by these anthraquinones were due to the inhibition of the catalytic activity of topoisomerase II (Topo II), with danthron being the most potent.[58,59] Emodin, the least potent compound among the three anthraqinones, caused DNA doublestrand breaks by stabilizing Topo II-DNA cleavage complexes and by inhibiting ATP hydrolysis of Topo II.[60] Aloe-emodin caused DNA damage in human lung carcinoma cells through the production of ROS,[61] induced micronuclei in TK6 human lymphoblastoid cells,[56] and chromosomal aberration in Chinese hamster ovary cells.[57] Danthron caused DNA damage and caspase cascade-mediated apoptosis in SNU-1 human gastric cancer cells through mitochondrial permeability transition pores and Bax-triggered pathways.[62]

An in vivo mouse Comet assay was performed on isolated kidney and colon cells of male OF1 mice in order to demonstrate the possible organospecific genotoxicity of aloe-emodin.[56] Increases in DNA strand breaks in both the kidney and the colon were observed between 3 h and 6 h after two oral administrations at 500,1000, and 2000 mg/kg body weight, suggesting an in vivo genotoxic mechanism of action.

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3.2.3. Carcinogenicity of the latex

Tumor promotion activities, such as stimulation of cell proliferation and enhancement of malignant transformation, have been investigated in mice for 9 hydroxyan- thraquinones (HA) including danthron, aloe-emodin, and emodin.[63] A 2 to 3-fold increase in DNA synthesis was found in primary rat hepatocytes exposed to danthron and aloe-emodin; and danthron also enhanced malignant transformation of C3H/M2 mouse fibroblasts pretreated with N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine or 3-methylcholanthrene, suggesting that HA with hydroxy groups in the 1,8- positions may have tumor-promoting activity. The carcinogenic potential of HA also has been demonstrated in a group of 29 male ACI/N rats.[64] After 480 days feeding with 1% of HA, 25 of 29 rats developed adenomas or adenocarcinomas in the cecum or upper portion of the colon; liver neoplasms (neoplastic nodules and hepatocellular carcinomas) were observed in 12 rats; and benign stomach tumors were observed in five animals. These findings strongly suggest that HA is carcinogenic in rodents.

A two-year feeding study of emodin in male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice showed equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity for emodin in female F344/N rats due to a marginal increase in the incidence of Zymbal’s gland carcinoma and in male B6C3F1 mice based on a low incidence of renal tubule neoplasms.[65] In the rat study, diets containing 0, 280, 830, or 2500 ppm emodin (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 110, 320, or 1000 mg/kg to males and 120, 370, or 1100 mg/kg to females) were administered to 65 male and 65 female rats for 105 weeks. Three Zymbal’s gland carcinomas were diagnosed in female rats exposed to 2500 ppm. In the mouse study, 60 male and female mice were fed diets containing 0-625 ppm (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 15-70 mg/kg) or 0-1250 ppm (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 30-120 mg/kg) emodin, respectively, for 105 weeks. Low incidences of renal tubule adenoma and one carcinoma each in the 312 and 625 ppm groups were observed in exposed male mice. No evidence of carcinogenic activity of emodin was found in female B6C3F1 mice even at the highest dose of 1250 ppm.

Evidence for aloe-emodin photocarcinogenicity was found in C3H mice after combined treatment with ultraviolet radiation and aloe-emodin in ethanol vehi- cle.[66] C3H/HeN mice were treated with aloe-emodin in 25% ethanol topically three times per week for two weeks and exposed to 15 kJ/m2 UVB (280-320 nm) radiation. Primary cutaneous melanin-containing tumors were diagnosed in 50%−67% of the UV-irradiated mice given aloe-emodin in ethanol vehicle and in 20%−30% of the mice treated with a combination of UV radiation and ethanol vehicle, whereas no skin tumors were induced by aloe-emodin alone in the absence of UV radiation.

3.3. Adverse clinical effects of the latex in humans

The purgative effect of Aloe latex has long been recognized and has been used empirically to relieve constipation. The earliest medical writer to record the therapeutic use of Aloe is Dioscorides, a Greek physician of the first century A.D.[67] Subsequently, Aloe latex was used widely in herbal laxative preparations in many countries. Thus, a number of adverse effects resulting from ingestion of latex have been reported in clinical studies. Prolonged use was associated with electrolyte imbalance due to diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, hypokalemia, pseudomelanosis coli, and the development of a cathartic colon—the colon becomes atonic and dilated. Longterm use of anthranoid laxatives might be correlated with the risk of developing colon cancer.[68]

A case of Aloe-induced Henoch-Schonlein purpura, an idiopathic vasculitis of the small vessels, was reported. A 52-year-old male patient from Pakistan presented severe arthralgia, palpable purpura, and abdominal pain ten days after taking some juice extracted from four to five leaflets of Aloe vera. Twenty-four hours after the juice consumption, the man started to have rash on his legs and a mild arthralgia of the ankle. His symptoms worsened in the following days, and he developed diffuse, colicky, abdominal pain. Marked segmental necrosis and crescent formation were demonstrated by a renal biopsy. The renal dysfunction and nephritis were considered to be a consequence of large doses of Aloe.[69]

A 74-year-old female presented with an impressive deep black pigmentation of the whole colon after chronic use of anthraquinone laxatives over many decades. Various adenomas, which were classified as precancerous lesions, were detected, but no colorectal carcinoma was found.[70] An 18-year-old Caucasian girl, who was treated with a combination laxative containing 5 ml danthron orally at night to ameliorate constipation from 14 months old to 5-6 years old, presented a small bowel leiomyosarcoma with widespread dissemination.[71] Although one case cannot prove a causative association between danthron and the risk of developing bowel cancer, the authors concluded that prolonged oral exposure to the laxative should be avoided in early childhood. In addition, pregnant women were advised not to take Aloe latex because its cathartic property might result in stimulating uterine contractions, thereby increasing the risk for premature labor or miscarriage. Also, nursing mothers should not take laxatives because of the possibility of anthraquinones causing diarrhea in the infants.[3]

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4. Aloe vera gel

4.1. Components

Aloe vera gel is a transparent mucilaginous jelly-like substance contained in the parenchymatous cells of fresh Aloe vera leaf pulp, with a gel yield of approximately 70% (70 g gel/100 g pulp) from the pulp by mechanical extrusion.[72] The gel has very high water content (99%−99.5%), with the remaining soluble solids making up 0.5%−1%,[73] and a range of gel acidity (pH) of 4.4-4.7.[74] On a dry matter basis, the chemical constituents consist of 35% dietary fibers (nonstarch polysaccharides + lignin), 27% soluble sugars, 24% ash, and a minor fraction of lipids, proteins, enzymes, and mineral elements.[7,72] The alcohol insoluble residues obtained from Aloe vera gel lyophilized fractions have a high content of carbohydrates (72%) including mannose, glucose, and uronic acids. Linear chains of β−1-4-linked mannose and glucose molecules compose the primary polysaccharides at a ratio of 1~22:1 in the gel.[6,7,75-77] Most investigators agree that acemannan, an acetylated glucomannan, makes up the major active component of the mucilaginous Aloe vera gel,[72] while others report pectic substance as the main polysaccharide.[73] The discrepancies are considered to be a result of differences in the species, seasons of the year, geographical locations, and the gel extraction process.

4.2. Toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity

The toxic effects of Aloe vera gel have been reported only in a few studies. There is diversity in the results of the observed toxic effects which may be largely due to the differences in the gel contents that are greatly influenced by a variety of factors including seasons, locations, irrigation, harvest time, and, most importantly, the lack of standardization of the gel preparations.

4.2.1. Toxicity of the gel

The cytotoxicity of Aloe vera gel has been confirmed in monolayers of chicken fibroblasts based on the observations of disrupted intercellular junctions and the formation of cell-free gaps in the monolayers after treatment.[78] The cell injury assay was conducted using three fractions isolated from the Aloe barbadensis leaves, native gel (mucilaginous parenchymous tissue scraped from Aloe leaves), purified gel (the nondialyzable fraction of the native gel), and the low molecular weight fraction (LMWF, the dialyzable material). A 1:10 dilution of native gel and the LMWF promoted similar cell injuries, while the purified gel behaved like the control at the same dilution. These severe cellular damages were distinct enough to be detected under a microscope. Therefore, it was proposed that the toxicity was mainly caused by the LMWF from the gel since the beneficial characteristics were suggested to result from the high molecular weight components.[78] Following a 4-hour treatment, an Aloe vera dehydrated gel material induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity in HeLa cells, with a CC5o value of 269.3 mg/ml.[21]

Aloe vera gel was administered in drinking water to groups of four male and four female F344/N rats in a 14-day study conducted by the NTP.[28] The gel quality was monitored by the content of malic acid and aloin A (barbaloin). Drinking water solutions of 0.5%−3% Aloe vera gel contained 1060-6360 μg malic acid/g water, and 5.6-33.3 μg aloin A/g water. After the 14-day exposure, dose-related increases in urine glucose levels in female rats and dose-related decreasing trends in serum levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, and albumin were observed at concentrations of 1.5% or greater in female rats and of 3.0% in male rats. When adult male Wistar rats were orally administered with Aloe vera gel extract solution (150 and 300 mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks, the weight of testes, serum testosterone, sperm count, and sperm fertility were significantly decreased compared to the control rats.[79] In another in vivo study using a commercial stabilized Aloe vera gel consumed as a beverage, no changes were found in feed consumption, body weight gain, and serum chemistry tests following a 13-week subchronic exposure in B6C3F1 mice.[80]

After 5.5 months ingestion of crude skinned Aloe filet to male F344 rats, no adverse effect was observed on body weight gain, food intake, gastrointestinal transit time, or gross pathology at dietary concentrations of 1% or 10% (corresponding to doses of Aloe vera gel of ~0.33 and 3.3 g/kg bw/day).[16,81] Life-long ingestion of low dose (1%) Aloe vera filet caused no obvious harmful effects or deleterious changes in the rat.[82]

4.2.2. Genotoxicity of the gel

Studies on the biological effects of Aloe vera pulp extract on Escherichia coli-deficient repair mutants and plasmid DNA revealed genotoxic properties of the gel, but not cytotoxicity because of the poor permeability through the cell membrane. The agarose gel electrophoresis assay showed that Aloe vera pulp extract produced dose- dependent single-strand breaks in the plasmid DNA.[83] In vitro and in vivo safety studies using a high-purity Aloe vera inner leaf fillet preparation demonstrated that the gel was nonmutagenic in the Ames test, the chromosomal aberration test, and the in vivo bone marrow micronucleus test, following oral administration at doses up to 5 g/kg bw/day to rats for 90 days[84] Similarly, a commercial gel juice did not induce a significant increase in SOS DNA repair in Escherichia coli or mutagenesis in Salmonella TA100[80]

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4.2.3. Carcinogenicity of the gel

No carcinogenicity data are available for Aloe gel.

4.3. Adverse clinical effects of the gel in humans

Aloe gels were first used clinically in the 1930s for the treatment of radiation burns.[34] Afterward, several clinical trials of Aloe vera gel have been carried out in the treatment of burn wounds,[85] oral lichen planus,[86] hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients,[87] and recurrent aphthous stomatitis.[88] Only some minor adverse effects were reported in these studies, such as discomfort, pain, and the development of hypersensitive reactions. However, generalized eczematous and papular dermatitis were found in a male patient in response to the oral and topical use of the Aloe vera gel.[89] Pruriginous erythema was observed on the legs and eyelids of a 72-year- old woman after applying self-made Aloe vera leaf juice over the legs.[90] A very slow recovery from the dermatitis induced by Aloe vera preparations was reported in four cases after dermabrasion and chemical peel.[91] No severe adverse effects or carcinogenicity have been reported from using Aloe vera gel.

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5. Perspectives

More than 300 million people worldwide consume dietary supplements and herbal plants, and about one-half of Americans use them regularly.[92] Dietary or herbal supplement products are expected to be safe, effective, and of appropriate quality. However, the complex chemical nature of dietary supplements makes it difficult to evaluate their efficacy and safety. Herbal products often exhibit great variability in quality because of some issues including authentication, adulteration and substitution, and factors during growth, harvest, and postharvest processing.[93] Authentication of plant species used for preparation of herbal dietary supplements is important for safety assurance. Besides traditional approaches, the use of molecular/genetic profiling in identification of specific molecular changes (fingerprints) and in unveiling signature indicative of exposures remains a promising yet still largely unexplored approach.[94,95]

The reported adverse effects have raised concerns of public health risks regarding the concentration, composition, and individual contaminants of dietary supplements. Herbal dietary supplements and other herbal products have been recognized as the common causes of drug-induced liver injury.[96] A recent report indicates that dietary/herbal supplements are implicated in 19% of drug-induced acute liver failure cases,[97] because consumers often purchase these products online without the supervision of a health care provider and are not aware of drug-herb interactions and appropriate warnings. A total of 1179 English-language, herbal product- related websites (including retail and nonretail websites) were examined and only ~10% of them recommended consultation with a health care professional. In addition, only about 8% of internet retailers provided information on potential adverse effects, drug interactions, and other basic safety precautions; and less than 3% cited scientific references to their claims.[98]

Aloe plant contains multiple constituents with potential beneficial and toxico- logical activities. Three distinct preparations derived from Aloe vera (i.e., the whole leaf extract, Aloe vera gel, and Aloe vera latex) have been used as topical and oral therapeutic remedies. The gel is primarily used topically for wounds and skin problems, as well as taken orally for the treatment of gastrointestinal ulcers and dia- betes.[9] The latex is regulated as a drug by the FDA to relieve constipation and the whole leaf extract may possess antibacterial/viral and anticancer activities.[5] Aloe vera appears to be safe when used as a flavoring in foods[16]; and the polysaccharide material derived from the inner gel is noncytotoxic as evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel.[3] However, due to the cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity of anthraquinones, it is crucial to monitor the content of these phenolic compounds in Aloe vera whole leaf extract and latex.[5,24] The International Aloe Science Council standard suggests that the maximum allowable aloin content in Aloe-derived material for oral consumption is less than 10 ppm (parts per million); for nonmedical use the recommended limit is 50 ppm or lower.[3,99]

According to Multinational Integrated Data Analysis conducted by IMS Health (Danbury, CT), the estimated global sales of Aloe products have reached US $351 million.[16] Due to the increased popularity and utilization of Aloe plant, indepth studies are needed to investigate the adverse effects, conventional drug interactions, and the possible toxic and carcinogenic effects of Aloe preparations, especially after long-term use of these products.

What are the side effects of aloe vera?

Brand Name: Aloe vera, Aloe arborescens natalenis, Aloe barbadensis, Aloe ferox, Aloe vulgari

Generic Name: Aloe

Drug Class: Dermatology, Herbals

WHAT IS ALOE AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Aloe suggested uses include promoting wound healing, as anesthesia, as an antiseptic, for arthritis, burns, cold sores, fever, inflammation, as a moisturizer, and for itching.

Aloe is possibly effective for pain, inflammation, and wound healing.

Aloe is available under the following different brand and other names: Aloe vera, Aloe arborescens natalenis, Aloe barbadensis, Aloe ferox, and Aloe vulgari.

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WHAT ARE DOSAGES OF ALOE?

Dosages of Aloe:

Suggested Dosing

Leaf gel cap

50-200 mg/day orally

Liquid

30 ml orally three times daily

Tincture

15-60 drops orally as needed; 1:10, 50% alcohol

Topical

Apply 3-5 once/day as needed

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:

See "Suggested Dosing"

QUESTION

Ringworm is caused by a fungus.

See Answer

WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH USING ALOE?

Common side effects of aloe include:

blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

Burning and itching of the skin (infrequent)

Stomach pain and cramps (high doses)

Diarrhea, kidney problems, blood in the urine, low potassium, muscle weakness, weight loss, and heart disturbances (long-term use at high doses)

Liver problems (rare)

This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects.

WHAT OTHER DRUGS INTERACT WITH ALOE?

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider, or pharmacist first.

Aloe has no known severe, serious, moderate, or mild interactions with other drugs.

This information does not contain all possible interactions or adverse effects. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share this information with your doctor and pharmacist. Check with your health care professional or doctor for additional medical advice, or if you have health questions, concerns, or for more information about this medicine.

WHAT ARE WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS FOR ALOE?

WARNINGS

This medication contains aloe. Do not take Aloe vera, Aloe arborescens natalenis, Aloe barbadensis, Aloe ferox, or Aloe vulgaris if you are allergic to aloe or any ingredients contained in this drug.

Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Contraindications

None reported

Effects of Drug Abuse

No information available

Short-Term Effects

See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Aloe?"

Long-Term Effects

See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Aloe?"

Cautions

Abdominal discomfort (oral use), appendicitis (oral use), Crohn's disease (oral use), diabetes mellitus, hemorrhoids (oral use), intestinal obstruction (oral use), kidney disease (oral use), nausea/vomiting (oral use), peptic ulcer disease (PUD) (oral use), ulcerative colitis (oral use)

Pregnancy and Lactation

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No information is available about the use of aloe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor.

Aloe is a plant-based therapy that some people use to treat side effects affecting the skin caused by cancer and its treatment. There is not enough reliable evidence to be sure that it works.

Summary

Aloe is a plant that looks like a cactus, the most well-known species is aloe vera.

In cancer care there are reports of using it as a treatment for sore skin from radiotherapy, this is not backed up by research.

Aloe vera can have side effects if swallowed.

What is aloe?

The aloe plant is from the lily family. It is from West Africa but is now a common household plant in many countries. The most well-known species of aloe is aloe vera.

It has cactus like fleshy leaves. They contain a thin clear gel that people often use to soothe minor skin problems, such as:

sunburn

cuts

superficial burns

Aloe vera gel has softening properties. Many skin and beauty products such as cleansers, moisturisers and soaps contain aloe vera. The gel can also be made into juice to drink.

An extract taken from inside the outer lining of the leaves is called aloe latex. When dried, it forms brownish granules. These contain a substance that can help to treat constipation.

Why people with cancer use it

There is no scientific evidence to prove that aloe can treat any cancer. Aloe may cause severe side effects when used as a cancer treatment.

People mainly use aloe vera for skin conditions. There is some evidence to support its use for minor skin problems and burns. Some people with cancer use aloe vera during radiotherapy treatment. They believe it helps to heal and soothe burns caused by their radiotherapy treatment.

A review study in 2017 looked at the use of complementary therapies. This means that a group of experts gather all the evidence about a particular subject. They then go through it to work out whether there is any evidence to support it. The review was in people with breast cancer. It showed that using aloe vera to treat burns from radiotherapy had a small chance of working. The researchers did not recommend it as a treatment.    

In many countries, including the UK, aloe products are available as dietary supplements. Some are sold as a treatment for constipation. Germany's regulatory agency for herbs (Commission E) has approved aloe for treating constipation. In 2002 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in America said aloe was not safe to use for constipation.

How you have it

Some people have an aloe vera plant in their home. They squeeze the juice from the plant leaves. They then put it straight onto their skin to help heal minor cuts, scrapes and burns. Aloe vera gel or cream is available in health food shops and chemists.

Aloe products such as aloe latex and aloe juice as a liquid or capsules help treat constipation. They can work well for some people, but you should never take more than the recommended dose. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) evaluates medicines. They suggest that you should not use aloe for constipation for longer than a week.

Let your doctor know about any complementary therapies or supplements that you use.

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Side effects

Using aloe vera on the skin to help treat and soothe minor skin problems is generally safe.

Swallowing aloe vera as a liquid or capsules causes side effects for some people. They are usually mild but might be more of a problem for some people. Side effects may include:

diarrhoea

feeling and being sick

a skin rash

stomach pain

There are reports of severe side effects. These include:

liver inflammation (hepatitis)

blood clotting problems

low blood potassium levels

Aloe products can be powerful laxatives. It may cause a chemical imbalance in the body after severe diarrhoea. These side effects are more likely to occur if you take very high doses.

Aloe vera might interact with other drugs or herbs. Make sure you talk to your doctor before you have it.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified aloe vera whole leaf extract as Class 2B. That means it is a possible cancer-causing substance (carcinogenic) for humans.

 

Research into aloe for cancer

 Laboratory studies

 Trials

How much it costs

Many aloe vera products are available to buy in health food shops, chemists and over the internet. Generally, the products aren’t costly, but prices can vary if you buy online.

The amount of aloe vera in each product can vary too. Some may not contain the amount stated on the label.

The cost will depend on:

where you buy it (health food shops, chemist or online)

what form you buy it in (cream, gel, liquid)

the dosage and amount you buy

Don't believe information on the internet that is not backed up by research.

Read more about the cost of complementary and alternative therapies

A word of caution

It is understandable that you might want to try anything if you think it might help treat or cure your cancer. Only you can decide whether to use an alternative cancer therapy such as aloe.

You could harm your health if you stop your cancer treatment for an unproven treatment.

Many websites promote aloe. But no reputable scientific cancer organisations support any of these claims.

Check with your doctor before you start using aloe. They have the full picture about your care and treatment.

In Europe it is important to buy registered products under the Traditional Herbal Remedies (THR) scheme. Remedies under the scheme have a THR mark and symbol on the packaging. THR products have been through quality and safety testing.

Consuming whole-leaf aloe vera extract increases the odds of developing cancer of the large intestine, according to a study published in Toxicological Sciences. That finding might come as a surprise, considering that aloe vera has long been lauded for its health benefits, including soothing sunburns. Research even suggests that aloe vera gel can act as an anticarcinogen, reducing the odds of skin cancer when it is applied to the skin.

How can aloe vera both cause cancer and prevent it? It turns out the key is which part of the aloe vera leaf is used. Aloin, the potentially cancer-causing compound found in aloe, is present only in the outer part of the leaf, specifically the cells that line the inside surface of the peel of the aloe leaf, not in the gel located inside the leaf. The vast majority of aloe products, including almost all aloe products applied topically, contain only aloe gel and thus no aloin. These products have no cancer risk.

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A small percentage of aloe vera products do utilize the entire aloe leaf. Aloe vera juice often is made from blended whole aloe leaves, for example. But even these products are very unlikely to contain dangerous amounts of aloin. That’s because companies that make whole-leaf aloe vera products almost always remove virtually all of the aloin through what’s known as a “decolorization” process involving activated charcoal filtration.

What to do: You can use aloe vera gel. But before consuming a “whole leaf” aloe vera product, read its packaging to confirm that it has been “decolorized.” If the packaging mentions an aloin concentration, this should be no more than 10 parts per million.

What part of aloe vera is toxic?

Aloe vera is the go-to remedy for more than just sunburns. Here’s a guide to its many uses.

Contents:

History of Aloe Vera

Where Aloe Vera Grows

Aloe Vera: An Ancient Superfood

Aloe Vera Health Benefits and Side Effects

Aloe Vera’s Topical Uses

Aloe Vera Products

What You Can Do With Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera in Natural Health School

Aloe Vera Infographic

Aloe vera’s rise to superfood status has been a long time coming.

Often extolled for its soothing qualities, aloe vera is most commonly used as a topical ointment for burns, sun damage, and skin abrasions, but this ancient plant may offer deeper healing abilities when taken orally. Most of us are familiar with the presence of aloe vera in cosmetics and skin creams; it moisturizes and has anti-aging effects. However, many people who live according to a natural health philosophy have long viewed the plant as a potent superfood.

That’s right. As kale and blueberries quickly ascended to the top of superfood lists, aloe vera has remained a quiet competitor.

Walk into any health food store and you’ll see plenty of aloe vera juices and gels, but what do they really do? Search for aloe vera information on the Internet and you’ll be bombarded with aloe products touting the plant’s virtues, but is it safe to use?

Learn how aloe vera is used as a functional food, ways to incorporate it into your diet and what safety precautions to take. As always, it’s a good idea to consult your physician before starting any complementary medicine regimen.

Keep reading to gain a deeper understanding of the plant’s history, how it’s cultivated and what you might learn about aloe vera in your natural health school.

aloevera_geljuice

Did you know? There are two parts to an aloe vera leaf: Gel and leaf juice (not to be confused with aloe juice in stores). The gel is what most people are familiar with. It’s the odorless and clear liquid at the innermost part of the leaf. Aloe latex, or juice, seeps from the leaf when cut. It’s yellow in color and has a bitter taste. When ingesting aloe, the gel is the safest part of the plant. The latex has laxative properties and can cause serious health complications if used too often.

History of Aloe Vera

From Cleopatra to Christopher Columbus, some of history’s most famous figures relied on aloe vera for its healing properties. Sometimes referred to as the “burn plant,” “lily of the desert” or the “wonder plant,” aloe vera likely originated in the Sudan.

Ancient civilizations eventually brought the plant to the Mediterranean region and other warm climates around the world.

2100 BC A record of aloe vera’s benefits appear on a Mesopotamian tablet.

1550 BC A description of aloe vera’s medicinal purposes is documented. An Egyptian text details how to use aloe vera for both internal and external symptoms.

70 AD The Greeks use aloe vera to treat wounds, hair loss, and other issues.

1655 First mention of aloe vera in the English language; John Goodyew translates Dioscorides’ Medical treatise De Materia Medica.

1820 The U.S. Pharmacopeia says aloe vera can be used to protect skin.

1930s Aloe vera is used to treat radiation dermatitis.

Today Aloe vera is commonly used in many countries for topical and internal uses.

All About Aloe

Aloe vera is just one of 400 species of Aloe

Botanical name: Aloe barbadensis miller

Part of Liliaceae Family

Aloe comes from the Arabic word “alloeh” (shining, bitter substance) and “vera” means true in Latin

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HOW TO REMOVE ALOIN POISON ☠️ FROM ALOE VERA (Remove This Bitter SAP For Your Own Safety)

Where Aloe Vera Grows

Although it can be grown indoors just about anywhere, aloe vera can be found thriving in various regions of the world Southwestern U.S. Southeast Asia, the Bahamas, Mexico, Central America, West Indies.

worldmap

Succulent Plants

Aloe vera is part of the succulent family, a type of plant with shallow and intricate root systems that allow for quick water absorption. Succulents can store water for an extended period of time making them an easy-to-maintain plant.

Succulents are known for their hardiness and have a unique self-repairing ability. If damaged, succulent leaves seal off the cut or wound using its internal gel. The leaf will continue to grow from the base of the plant despite the damage.

Aloe vera no longer grows in the wild. The ancient plant needs to be cultivated instead; you’ll often find it in terra cotta pots on a kitchen sill or in the front yard of a desert home.

Growing Aloe Vera

Don’t have a green thumb? No problem. Aloe, like other succulents, is easy to keep alive and healthy because it doesn’t need much maintenance.

final_facts_aloevera

Fast Facts:

+  Aloe can grow outside in zones 9-11 or indoors year-round

+  Place potted plants outside after the last frost

+  Soil should be sandy

+  Harvest mature leaves only

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Aloe Vera: An Ancient Superfood

With so many so-called superfoods out there, the meaning of the word can become diluted. As more whole foods earn the moniker, consumers tend to get skeptical that it’s just another diet fad. However, it’s safe to say aloe vera is one of the original superfoods.

Aloe Vera Benefits: Vitamins, Minerals and More

Aloe vera is full of good stuff—75 active components to be exact. The naturally-occurring vitamins, minerals and amino acids in the plant are necessary for good health. To understand how aloe vera can be a disease-fighter, it’s best to understand what’s exactly inside the clear gel.

Vitamins

Aloe vera includes several necessary vitamins: A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12.

Vitamins A, C, and E are antioxidants and help fend off free radicals which can contribute to cancer, heart disease and other illnesses.

Vitamin A Integral for a strong immune system and bone growth. It helps fight off viral or bacterial threats to the body.

Vitamin C A powerhouse vitamin that is believed to protect against cancer and cardiovascular problems. It also supports the immune system.

Vitamin E May protect against heart disease while promoting a strong immune system.

B1 Vitamin Also known as thiamine, B1 plays a role in digestion and contributes to a healthy nervous and immune system.

B2 Vitamin Goes by the name riboflavin and works as an antioxidant. B12, like other B vitamins, provides the body with energy by creating fuel from food. It also plays an important role in maintaining a strong nervous system.

B3 Vitamin Also known as niacin, B3 vitamins are used to treat high cholesterol, migraines, and diabetes. It’s also used to cleanse the body of toxins and promote good digestion.

B6 Vitamin Important to many of the body’s systems, including immune, cardiovascular and digestive. The vitamin is also connected to the serotonin and dopamine process.

B12 Vitamin Primarily found in animal products, B12 is necessary for healthy blood cells and helps make DNA.

Minerals

Calcium Famous for its role in strong bones, calcium is also vital to the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Sodium Often discussed as a negative mineral, sodium is essential to blood pressure, muscles and nerves.

Iron Makes up blood cells and proteins in the body. It’s necessary for energy.

Magnesium This mineral has a big job; it’s necessary for hundreds of processes in the body, including blood glucose regulation and keeping the immune system strong.

Potassium Helps clean cells out, protects blood vessels and is thought to help lower the risk of heart disease.

Copper Needed for growth and general health. This mineral helps maintain healthy heart function and is thought to help prevent osteoporosis.

Anthraquinones

Aloe contains 12 organic compounds called anthraquinones. Aloin, which causes a laxative effect, and emodin help with pain relief and work as antibacterial and antiviral agents. Anthraquinones are often removed from commercial aloe products.

9 Side Effects Of Aloe Vera Juice You Should Know

Polysaccharides

Aloe vera contains a unique type of sugar called Acemannan. The polysaccharide is believed to have antiviral properties, ease gastrointestinal problems and stimulate the immune system.

Fatty Acids

Aloe vera consists of four plant-based fatty acids which are shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. The acids also contain pain-relieving components.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), aloe vera contains 20 amino acids, seven of which are essential.

The plant also has hormones that aid in wound healing and eight enzymes.

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Aloe Vera Health Benefits

nihlogo

Who knew an aloe vera plant had so much goodness packed into its leaves? Despite the bevy of nutrients inside the gel, modern-day science has sought to confirm many claims made about the plant. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)–an arm of the National Institutes of Health (NIH)–says the gel isn’t approved for any oral uses primarily because of a lack of evidence. Researchers have spent decades analyzing the plant as a health remedy and have come up with fascinating results.

1. Aids in Digestion

Aloe vera is popular in natural health as a digestion aid.

Aloe is chock full of antioxidants which promote a strong immune system and the polysaccharides also have anti-inflammatory qualities. Some people use aloe to help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers and to detoxify the intestinal track.

kellymorrow

Kelly Morrow is a core faculty member in the Department of Nutrition and Exercise Science at Bastyr University.

Aloe vera is soothing to the mucosal tissues in the gut,” says Kelly Morrow, MS, RD, CD, a faculty member in the Department of Nutrition and Exercise Science at Bastyr University in Washington.

Morrow, who is also a clinical supervisor at Bastyr Center for Natural Health, has used aloe vera gel to ease irritation in the digestive track in patients going through chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

Those suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD may also be in luck. Some people use aloe vera to reduce the symptoms from damaged tissues caused by the disease.

“It’s soothing to any kind of irritation,” Morrow says.

Although aloe vera can be helpful, Morrow says it’s more common to recommend multiple supplements to her patients.

“For gastritis, aloe isn’t at the top of my list,” she asserts.

Instead, she recommends glutamine, which is an amino acid produced in the muscles and transported to organ via blood, with aloe as an additive.

2. Strengthens the Immune System

immune

Aloe’s ability to detoxify helps keep the immune system in check. The body has a much better chance at fighting off illness and infection if as many nutrients as possible can make their way into the bloodstream.

Polysaccharides are the primary component of aloe vera gel. These compounds, which are found in plants, create the thick quality of the gel.

“Some of these plant compounds feed the immune system,” Morrow says.

These same ingredients in aloe can also irritate the immune system, but not in a harmful way, Morrow notes. Instead, the immune system ramps up because it sees these compounds as a threat. However, polysaccharides are certainly not a toxin.

Can one eat Aloe Vera daily? - Ms. Sushma Jaiswal

“It’s the common reason why people who eat plants have a good immune system,” says Morrow.

In addition to this, the antioxidants that are present in the gel ward off free radicals which negatively impact immunity.

3. Lowers Cholesterol

A few studies have indicated that aloe can play a role in lowering cholesterol. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), daily intake of 10 ml or 20 ml of aloe for 3 months was shown to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol by 18 percent and total cholesterol by 15 percent.

4. Provides Pain Relief

Aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic qualities may be helpful in relieving muscle and tendon pain. The gel is sometimes used topically in sports medicine to soothe achy muscles, but taken orally, the anti-inflammatory ingredients may also help with pain.

It’s important to note that if you’re using aloe vera to reduce inflammation, you should also rebalance your diet. By eliminating unhealthy foods, the aloe vera has a better chance of working.

5. Diabetes Treatment

There are several ways aloe vera may help those suffering from diabetes. Some research has demonstrated aloe vera’s ability to lower blood glucose levels. However, the NIH warns that combining glucose-lowering medication with aloe vera can have harmful effects.

People with Type 2 diabetes may also look to aloe as a way to lower excessive amounts of fat in the blood.

Aloe’s ability to heal wounds faster may also benefit people with diabetes who have suffered from ulcers or wounds on their legs.

6. Relieves Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is a chronic condition in which joints are inflamed causing pain and stiffness. Aloe vera contains several enzymes and amino acids that are known to have anti-inflammatory qualities. Evidence is limited, but some people take aloe vera gel orally to ease the pain of arthritis.

aloedrink

Aloe Vera: An Acquired Taste New to drinking aloe?

Morrow says many people are turned off by the tangy flavor, but there are ways to make it more palatable.

Mix aloe gel with water

Use it as an ingredient in a smoothie

Soak in purified water for 10 minutes

7. Skin Care

The NIH says aloe vera is “possibly effective” for several skin ailments, including cold sores, psoriasis and itchy rashes on the skin or mouth. And although it’s most commonly used for sunburns, research hasn’t shown that it reduces redness. Most people use the gel for its natural cooling effect on the skin.

Although studies haven’t proven the gel can prevent burns from radiation therapy, some research has shown it can promote faster healing after treatment.

Aloe Vera: Cancer Fighter?

aloe-cancer

A number of studies have examined aloe vera’s role in preventing or treating cancer. Major health organizations, like the NIH, stop short of saying the plant is effective mainly due to lack of evidence. Another important note: The research evaluating aloe’s role in cancer treatment has been done on animals, not humans.

The theories surrounding aloe as a cancer panacea relate to the plant’s ability to strengthen the immune system which allows the body to fight off cancer cells.

Here’s some research to strengthen the argument that aloe may one day be a popular cancer treatment.

In conjunction with chemotherapy, an aloe and honey mixture may help more lung cancer patients heal completely, partially or control the disease better than those using only chemotherapy.

The anthraquinone called emodin has been shown to prevent liver cancer cells from growing in test tubes.

A study published in 2013 found that aloe-emodin may help treat or prevent breast cancer.

The effectiveness of the immune-boosting substance Acemannan has been tested in mice. One study found Acemannan revved up the immune cells to make cytokines, molecules that send cells to fight off inflammation or infection.

It’s advisable to talk with your doctor before using aloe vera as a cancer treatment.

Aloe Vera Side Effects, Drug Interactions and Contraindications

aloelatex

Caution should be taken when ingesting aloe vera as there can be potential side effects. The aloe latex—the yellow juice near the rind—is where most of the danger lies. However, ingredients in the more commonly used gel itself can also be harmful to some people. Always test a small amount to ensure you aren’t allergic to the plant.

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Here is a list of potential side effects. When in doubt, always check with your doctor.

Regular use of the entire leaf—which includes the latex—can deplete potassium in the body. Electrolyte imbalances can lead to muscle weakness and cardiac problems. According to the NIH, ingesting one gram of aloe latex for multiple days can be fatal.

Products containing the latex will exacerbate intestinal illnesses such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

People with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels when using aloe.

Ingesting any form of aloe is not recommended during pregnancy as it may cause uterine contractions or miscarriage. Aloe should also be avoided during breastfeeding.

Excessive use of aloe latex may cause kidney failure and shouldn’t be used by people with kidney problems.

Drug Interactions

warning

As mentioned above, aloe vera can lower blood sugar levels which can be problematic for people taking insulin or hypoglycemic medication. Because there is the potential for low potassium counts from aloe, people who take medication (Digoxin) for heart rhythm problems may see adverse effects when using aloe.

It’s possible that aloe may decrease the body’s blood clotting abilities. Taking aloe orally before surgery is not recommended since certain anesthesia also decreases blood clotting.

If used topically, the NIH states that aloe may increase the absorption of steroid creams (hydrocortisone).

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Aloe Vera’s Topical Uses

Aloe vera may be most well-known for its moisturizing properties. It can be found in plenty of skin and hair products, but it can also be used straight from the plant.

Aloe’s reputation for healing wounds starts as far back as 1935 when it was documented that the whole-leaf extract promoted complete regeneration of the skin. Research suggests that polysaccharides in the gel have anti-itching and anti-inflammatory that help with wound healing.

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“The most remarkable experiences [I’ve seen] have been with topical uses,” Morrow recalls. “It encourages regeneration of tissue.”

However, more research is needed; another study demonstrated that aloe may delay surgical wound healing.

Anecdotal evidence suggests aloe can be used topically for the following purposes:

lip-balm

Hair conditioning

Mix equal parts water and aloe vera gel together. Next, add an essential oil of your choice. The aloe locks in moisture and blocks external toxins from damaging hair.

The moisture from the aloe also promotes a healthy scalp and the anti fungal elements in the gel are known to eliminate dandruff.

Skin Inflammation

The combination of vitamins and minerals in aloe can soothe skin that is red from inflammation and acne. Regularly applying aloe to the face can help reduce redness.

Psoriasis

Some studies have found aloe may help treat the skin disease. The NIH cites research that used a cream with 0.5 percent aloe and after four to eight weeks, skin plaques were reduced and the overall severity lessened.

Skin Firmness and Tone

Moisture from aloe keeps skin firm while the antioxidants may provide a more vibrant complexion. Aloe is also used to lighten hyperpigmentation of the skin.

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Lip Treatment

Aloe can help take the sting out of swollen lips and can also be used as a moisturizer for chapped lips.

Aloe Vera Recipes for Skin and Hair

It’s easy to whip up a few quick recipes using aloe vera as the main ingredient.

pH Balanced Shampoo

(By thankyoubody.com)

aloe_gel

To Use: Defrost one cube in a bowl the night before use. Use as you would normal shampoo.

Ingredients:

1 can of coconut milk

1 ¾ cups pure aloe vera gel

Essential oils, optional

Instructions:

Mix ingredients in a bowl with a wire whisk.

Pour mixture into ice cube trays.

Put in freezer and wait a few hours until frozen completely.

The Other Aloe Gel: Topical Use and Ingredients

aloe-brand

You’ve likely seen topical aloe vera gel—intended for sunburns—in your local drugstore or supermarket. The gel is viscous, with air bubbles and sometimes a vibrant green color.

Not exactly “pure” or “natural.”

The draw of aloe vera is, of course, its ability to heal naturally, but unfortunately not all products are as pure as they want you to believe. For instance, one product’s label states:

“Aloe Vera

100% Gel”

This is a bit misleading because while the product is in fact, 100 percent gelatinous, it’s not made of 100 percent pure aloe.

Here’s a list of ingredients to look out for in topical gels:

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Triethanolamine

Diazolidinyl Urea

Carbomer

SD Alcohol 40

Tetrasodium EDTA

Glycerin

DMDM Hydantoin

Polysorbate 20

These words would be great for a spelling bee, but for your skin? Not so much. Before you slather on the gel, consider what else you’re putting on your skin when using these products.

Thickener Carbomer gives the gel its consistency. The compound is a group of polymers made of acrylic acid.

Hydration Glycerin is an emollient and is used to moisturize. It works by pulling water into the outer layer of the skin.

Surfactant The surfactant in many aloe gel products is Polysorbate 20. This chemical mixture reduces surface tension. In other words, it helps the product glide onto the skin.

Emulsifier Triethanolamine is used to help water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients stay mixed together.

Preservatives To keep the aloe from going bad, preservatives like Diazolidinyl Urea and DMDM Hydantoin, are used. These preservatives release formaldehyde. Tetrasodium EDTA is another preservative which may cause other chemicals to penetrate into the body. SD Alcohol is also known as denatured alcohol, which means ingredients have been added to make the substance undrinkable.

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Aloe Vera Products

We won’t beat around the aloe bush: Fresh is best.

When it comes to getting the most pure version of aloe, immediately using the gel after cutting it is the most effective method. Aloe begins to lose some of its potency after a few hours so cutting a fresh leaf will give you the most nutrients.

Of course, this makes the most sense for topical use. Morrow notes that if you’re ingesting aloe for certain conditions, such as an ulcer, a homegrown plant is unlikely to provide a large enough quantity on a regular basis.

How to Cut Fresh Aloe

Supplies:

Aloe leaf

Sharp knife

Cutting board

Vegetable peeler

If you’re removing a leaf from a plant (instead of purchasing in a store), be sure to cut an outer leaf near the base of the plant.

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aloe leaf cutting with knife

1. Slice off the prickly sides of the leaf with a knife. Take care not to cut too much off.

trim out layer of aloe leaf

2. With the convex side up, use a vegetable peeler to trim the outer layer of the leaf.

remove gel from leaf using knife

3. Slide the knife under the gel to remove it from the other side of the leaf.

cutting gel into small pieces

4. Dice the gel into smaller pieces.

pieces of aloe gel in the bowl

5. Refrigerate leftover aloe. It lasts about a week.

Caution: Be careful not to use the yellow juice from the leaf. It has a laxative effect.

The other option is aloe vera in a bottle. Aloe has turned into a multi-billion dollar industry as more research hints at the plant’s health benefits. Many supermarkets and health food stores carry aloe vera juices, gels and powders, but make sure you understand exactly what you’re purchasing.

The following sections explain the differences.

Aloe Vera Juice

latext

Defined as aloe vera leaf juice. Commercial aloe juice is made by crushing or grinding entire leaves, including the latex portion. Because the latex has a bitter flavor and laxative effects, it is removed during processing using a stripping agent. The NIH warns that this method can result in an aloe product with very few active ingredients, such as Acemannan. Look for juices that are more than 99% aloe.

If you opt for the juice, be sure you’re purchasing a product from a reputable company. If the latex isn’t removed during processing, there can be serious side effects. Since supplements aren’t regulated by the federal government, it can be risky to use a whole-leaf product.

The benefit to using this form of aloe vera?

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“The juice is easy to take internally,” Morrow says. Although she does caution against using whole-leaf aloe.

What to Know About Aloe Latex

Although aloe vera is a natural remedy, take precautions before using it. The National Library of Medicine recommends avoiding aloe latex because of serious side effects such as stomach cramping, kidney problems, heart disturbances, muscle weakness and blood in the urine.

Years ago, many companies used aloin (the substance that causes the laxative effect) in their laxative products, but the FDA stepped in and prohibited the use of the substance. The federal agency was concerned people would begin increasing their aloe latex dosage because the body builds up a tolerance and higher dosages could lead to the aforementioned health problems.

Aloe Vera Gel

aloegel

Defined as aloe vera inner leaf juice, or inner fillet. Commercial aloe vera gel is made without the outer rind and aloe latex. It’s then ground into juice or kept in gel form. Some products use carrageenan, an element in seaweed, as a thickening agent. The problem? Carrageenan has been linked to digestive problems which is a bit ironic since aloe gel is often used to aid in digestion.

“Gel and juice are largely similar,” Morrow notes, but says the main difference is the amount of mucilage in each. There is more present in gel.

Mucilage is a viscous liquid that contains the polysaccharides that make aloe so healthful.

Other Aloe Vera Forms

Aloe vera concentrate Commonly made from the whole aloe leaf. Because it’s more potent, it’s used by people who want to take a small dose once a day. Used: Alone or with food/drink.

Aloe vera powder The aloe vera gel is rinsed to remove remnants of aloin (the laxative ingredient in the latex) and dehydrated. The dried gel is then ground into powder form. Use in: Food and beverages.

Aloe vera capsules Often made from the whole leaf and freeze-dried into capsule form. This offers a more concentrated form of aloe vera. Benefits: Doesn’t need to be refrigerated and travel-friendly.

Aloe Harvesting and Production

farm

Before aloe gel and juice can hit store shelves, it has to be properly harvested and undergo a highly-sanitized production process.

Aloe farms can be found throughout the world. Africa, Australia, Asia, Central America, South America and the Caribbean are all popular locations for growing aloe for commercial use. Perhaps because aloe has been recognized as big business by many, farms in other countries are cropping up. The International Aloe Science Council states that commercial operations have requested set-up help in Greece, Iran and other countries in the Middle East.

Cultivation

To grow strong aloe plants, farms need good irrigation systems, fertilization and the proper climate. Since aloe is resistant to insects and disease, there’s no need for pesticides.

Did you know? There are no aloe vera seeds, only pups. To grow a new aloe plant, simply cut offshoots of a mature plant (roots and all) and replant.

Harvesting

While cutting and gathering aloe leaves may seem like a simple task, there’s a science behind it. If cut improperly, aloe loses its potency quickly and becomes susceptible to contamination. Farm employees harvest the largest (and most mature) leaves which are found at the bottom of the plant. Some aloe plants yield three leaves at a time, while others can produce six to nine leaves at harvest time.

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How aloe is cut:

The leaf is pulled away from the stalk and cut at the white base of the plant. Doing this prevents the inner part of the leaf from being exposed to outside elements. Cutting at the base keeps leaves sealed.

Upon harvesting, the leaves are gathered and delivered to a highly-regulated and sanitized processing facility.

Did you know? Aloe leaves can be harvested three to five times a year.

Processing

Processing must be done carefully to prevent the outer rind from being punctured which can cause contamination.

cutoutaloe

The first step in processing is washing the leaves using various machines. Post-wash, the processing steps differ depending on whether the whole leaf or inner leaf will be used.

If only gel is being used, the inner contents need to be separated from the rind and latex. The bottom of the leaf is cut and the yellow latex seeps out. The leaf is then rinsed to ensure no latex is present. The gel is then removed.

If the entire leaf is used, an extra step is taken to filter out the latex portion of the leaf.

Did you know? For the best quality aloe product, cutting and processing must be done within 48 hours.

Pasteurization

Aloe goes through a pasteurization process to ensure the product is safe. Manufacturers heat the aloe at a high temperature for a short amount of time.

Once these steps are completed, the aloe is concentrated.

Did you know? Aloe vera gel and orange juice have something in common. Both products are sold “with pulp” and “pulp-free.”

Cold-Pressed Aloe

drink

It’s hard to escape the cold-pressed juice trend and many aloe manufacturers use this method in their juice and gel production.

While the practice usually means a heftier price tag, there’s good reason to buy cold-pressed.

Recipe with Aloe Vera for Cancer Prevention

When juice is made the traditional way—fruits and vegetables are torn and shredded by blades—some heating occurs. This reduces the amount of nutrients in the juice, much like cooking can decrease the nutritional value of food. Exposure to air causes the same effect.

Cold-pressing involves, well, pressing the juice out of vegetables and fruits, but no heat is present in this process. The result is a thicker product with more vitamins and minerals.

With aloe vera, the cold-pressing occurs after the inner leaf gel has been removed. It’s then pressed and ground.

Organic Aloe Vera

aloecouncillogo

Unlike other many other plants, aloe vera is resistant to most pests due to its thick outer later. This means there’s rarely a need to spray pesticides on the plant. The International Aloe Science Council states that in just about all cases, aloe vera is grown organically. The organization discourages commercial growers from using pesticides, germicides and herbicides.

Morrow points out that the use of these chemicals can irritate tissues.

To be certified by the National Organic Program (USDA Organic), growers and handlers must provide a large portfolio of information including the history of the substances used on the land in the last three years. They’re required to show a plan detailing which practices are used in aloe production and how this plan is monitored. Growers and handlers must also demonstrate how they prevent organic aloe from coming into contact with non-organic materials. The USDA conducts yearly inspections.

Country of Origin

With so many aloe products on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. Morrow says to think about these issues:

Is the company reputable?

Was it imported from another country?

Are you purchasing it off the Internet?

The main point is to do your research. This isn’t to say aloe juice or gel is inherently bad if it’s imported from another country. The problem lies with not knowing how stringent other countries’ standards are and whether a product is primarily aloe. Morrow suggests checking reviews about supplements at ConsumerLabs.com.

The International Aloe Science Council defines what is considered aloe vera in commercial products:

“Only products containing Acemannan, or the beta 1-4 acetylated glucomannans, can be accurately labeled as aloe vera.”

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What You Can Do With Aloe Vera

Aloe vera may turn out to be more than just a superfood and skin and hair treatment. It can be used for other daily tasks, like brushing your teeth and keeping food fresh. Here are 10 things you can do with aloe vera.

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1. Toothpaste and mouthwash

Aloe vera gel contains antiseptic properties which can help clean teeth and gums. Since it doesn’t contain harsh ingredients, the soothing gel may be a better option for people with sensitive teeth. The NIH also states the ingredient can help reduce inflammation of the gums caused by gingivitis or periodontitis.

2. Food preservative

Back in 2005, researchers in Spain found that adding an aloe vera coating to fruits and vegetables may help them last longer. In 2014, researchers tested the effectiveness of aloe vera as a coating on tomatoes.

The results showed that aloe vera prevented parasitic and fungus growth on the tomatoes. The quality of the fruit was maintained but the aloe coating did delay ripening.

3. Shaving Gel

Aloe’s moisturizing qualities make for a natural and refreshing shave gel. It also helps prevent razor burn and soothes cuts. Mix one part olive oil and three parts pure aloe vera to make your own concoction.

4. Body/Face Mist

Aloe gel has a cooling effect. With a few ingredients, you can make a refreshing spritz for the body and face. Here’s a recipe from MindBodyGreen.

cucumber and aloe hydrating mist

Cucumber-Aloe Hydrating Mist

Ingredients:

1 small cucumber

1/3 cup of distilled water

1 tsp. aloe vera

1 tsp. witch hazel

Instructions:

Peel and cut the cucumber (either dice it or put into a food processor). If using a processor, strain through a cheesecloth to extract the cucumber essence and to keep the mist light. Include some of the diced pieces in the mix. Pour into a glass spray bottle with the water, aloe vera, witch hazel and shake.

5. Fight Dandruff

There are plenty of reasons aloe vera can fight dandruff. Sure, it moisturizes, but the compounds in the gel also fight bacteria and fungus that cause the flaky stuff. You can find natural aloe vera shampoos that are free of chemicals or you can make your own.

6. Ice Cubes

Aloe not cooling enough for you? Make ice cubes! You can either cut fresh gel into 2-inch pieces and freeze or place the gel in ice cube trays. Once frozen, you can use them for sunburns and other topical needs.

7. Hand Sanitizer

Homemade hand sanitizer using aloe has become popular among natural health proponents. Some recipes call for rubbing alcohol while others use a mix of essential oils and witch hazel, along with aloe. Tea tree oil has antibacterial qualities and can work well with the hydrating effects of aloe.

8. Skin Salves

salve

Salves offer relief to dry, cracked skin and also work as a layer of protection, plus they’re easy to make at home.

Aloe is a common ingredient in salves due to its anti-inflammatory and cooling abilities. It acts as a lightener and allows the salve to glide across the skin easily.

To make an aloe salve, you’ll need the gel from one to three aloe leaves:

Infuse olive oil with herbs of your choice (try rosemary and calendula flowers) in a crockpot on low for three hours. Be sure all the water from the herbs cooks away otherwise mold can occur.

Strain the herbs and collect as much of the olive oil as possible.

Add the olive oil to the aloe vera gel and mix.

For two parts olive oil, you’ll need one part beeswax. Add the wax.

Sit the bowl containing the mixture above a simmering pot of water.

Once the mixture has melted completely, it can be poured into a container to cool.

9. Face Scrub

Aloe vera has antibacterial and antifungal properties making it a natural cleanser. Combine it with ingredients from the kitchen, like oatmeal or baking soda, to make an exfoliating face scrub.

10. Aloe Vera Oil

Used for skin care needs, mix aloe vera gel with coconut oil and heat on low in a pot for about 10 minutes. The oil is great for post-shower moisturizing.

Aloe Vera Recipes

If you’re new to eating aloe, try these quick and simple recipes to get you started.

For which cancers should Aloe Vera be avoided

Aloe Vera Smoothie

(BlissfulBasil.com)

smoothie

Ingredients:

¼ cup aloe vera gel (fresh from leaf)

1 ½ cups frozen strawberries

1 cup water

1 ½ tbsp. maple syrup

1 tbsp. lemon juice

Instructions:

Blend on high for 1-2 minutes or until smooth.

If you’re looking for a further boost, throw in protein powder or chia seeds.

Pineapple-Aloe Cocktail

(VegetarianTimes.com)

cocktail

Ingredients:

½ cup pineapple juice

¼ to ½ cup aloe vera juice

2 tbsp. unsweetened cranberry juice

1 tbsp. agave nectar or honey, optional

Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in small pitcher. Pour over ice and serve with lime.

Fresh Aloe Mint Summer Salad

(By Laura Dawn, HappyandRaw.com)

salad

Ingredients:

Large, fresh aloe leaf

Handful of organic mint leaves

Medium-sized tomato

1 lemon or lime

A small dash of garlic powder

A small dash of kelp powder

White or black sesame seeds, optional

Instructions:

Preparing the aloe:

Take a large piece of aloe and fillet it (Video). Try to keep the translucent jelly core in one big piece.

On a cutting board, with a sharp knife, cut strip of the jelly. Place all the aloe pieces in a bowl and soak in purified water for 10 minutes.

Then place in a strainer and drain the aloe and rinse it well, then place the aloe strips in a bowl.

Prepare the salad:

The recipe will be dependent on how much aloe you’ve cut up. The remaining ingredients can be adjusted to taste.

Toss all ingredients and served chilled or at room temperature.

Aloe Vera Drink

(By Jeff Mauro on the Food Network)

aloe vera drink

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups coconut water

2 tbsp. food-grade aloe vera gel or juice

1 medium cucumber, seeded and diced

½ cup apple, peeled, cored and diced

Instructions:

Add the coconut water, aloe vera, cucumbers and apples to the carafe of a blender and puree until smooth. Strain if desired. Serve immediately over ice.

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Aloe Vera Demystified

Aloe Vera in Natural Health School

aloe_vera_main3

You’ll learn about the uses of many supplements and plants in naturopathic, herbalism or nutrition classes. Aloe vera will certainly be one of them.

Morrow, who teaches nutritional supplementation and nutrition assessment and therapy at Bastyr University, focuses on evidence-based research when it comes to aloe vera.

“We look at it from a disease model,” she says.

Discussions revolve around what aloe is used for in different areas of medicine. Students learn a science-based approach with lessons on what aloe vera is made of and how those ingredients help patients heal.

In Morrow’s nutritional supplementation class, students are assigned different supplements to research. Aloe vera is discussed during the gastrointestinal (GI) section of the curriculum.

“We use resources to highlight how aloe is used, the way it’s used, what the evidence says, contraindications and doses for certain conditions,” Morrow says.

Enrolling in a different type of natural health program? You’ll still come across aloe vera in your studies. In an herbalism program, aloe may be discussed in the context of growing and harvesting plants, in raw food courses or understanding the role of nutrients in the body.

Naturopathic Doctor (ND) programs typically discuss the virtues of aloe vera in Ayurvedic garden and botanical medicine courses. Like a nutrition-based model, ND programs will study aloe as a way to treat disease.

Chinese medicine programs teach that aloe vera is useful in treating fungal diseases. The same programs cover the use of the plant in nutrition classes as well.

3 Things Holistic Health Students Should Know About Aloe

Holistic health schools will likely include aloe vera in the curriculum. Here’s what you can expect.

You’ll read about aloe in textbooks. Basic facts, uses and contraindications of the ancient plant will be discussed.

Expect a science lesson. Students will learn how aloe’s vitamins, minerals and other properties affect the human body.

You’ll examine clinical research. Aloe studies span decades and you’ll learn what the findings say about aloe’s efficacy as a health treatment.

Is aloe vera toxic to humans?

Aloe vera is often called the “plant of immortality” because it can live and bloom without soil.

It is a member of the Asphodelaceae family, along with more than 400 other species of aloe.

Aloe vera has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, and studies have linked it to various health benefits as well. For example, the plant is used to treat sunburns, fight dental plaque and lower blood sugar levels.

In addition, aloe vera is rich in nutrients with more than 75 potentially active compounds, including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, fatty acids and polysaccharides (1Trusted Source).

However, you may wonder whether the plant is safe for consumption.

Should Cancer Patients Drink Aloe Vera Juice?

This article tells you whether you can eat aloe vera — and whether you should.

Aloe Vera Leaves Are Generally Safe to Eat

Aloe vera leaves are comprised of three parts: the skin, the gel and the latex. They’re best known for their gel, which is responsible for most of its health benefits (1Trusted Source).

While most people apply the gel to their skin, it’s also safe to eat when prepared right.

Aloe vera gel has a clean, refreshing taste and can be added to a variety of recipes, including smoothies and salsas.

To prepare the gel, cut off the spiky edges on the top and alongside the aloe vera leaf. Next, slice off the skin on the flat side, remove the clear gel and dice it into small cubes.

Make sure to wash the gel cubes thoroughly to remove all traces of dirt, debris and residue. Latex residue can give the gel an unpleasant bitter taste.

The latex is a thin layer of yellow liquid between the skin and the gel of the leaf. It contains compounds with powerful laxative properties, such as aloin (2Trusted Source).

Eating too much latex can have serious and potentially fatal side effects (3Trusted Source).

In contrast, the aloe vera skin is generally safe to eat. It has a mild flavor and a crunchy texture, perfect for adding variety to your summer salads. Alternatively, the skin can be enjoyed by dipping it in salsa or hummus.

To prepare the skin, cut off the spiky edges on the top and alongside the plant and slice off the skin on the flat side. Make sure to wash the skin thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris and latex.

You can soak it in water for 10–20 minutes before eating it if you find it too tough to chew.

It’s very important to choose leaves from the aloe vera plant and not from other aloe species, as these may be poisonous and therefore unfit for human consumption.

SUMMARY

It’s generally safe to eat the gel inside the aloe vera leaf, as well as the skin. Wash the skin or gel thoroughly to remove traces of latex, which can have unpleasant and potentially harmful side effects.

Avoid Eating Aloe Vera Skin Care Gels

Aloe vera skin care gels and products are not meant to be eaten.

Instead, they’re manufactured to help soothe sunburns, reduce inflammation, moisturize, relieve itchiness and treat a variety of other skin concerns.

Many commercial aloe vera gels contain preservatives to extend their shelf life, as well as other ingredients to improve the smell, texture and color. Many of these ingredients are not meant to be ingested (4Trusted Source).

In addition, processing methods can strip away aloe vera gel’s active ingredients, which are otherwise responsible for the health benefits that come from eating the gel (4Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Many aloe vera skin care products contain preservatives and other ingredients that are not meant to be ingested. Stick to eating the aloe vera plant and not commercial skin care products.

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Potential Benefits of Eating Aloe Vera

Consuming aloe vera gel from the leaf has been linked to potential health benefits. Other parts of the plant have been linked to benefits as well.

Here are some potential benefits of eating aloe vera:

May reduce blood sugar levels: In human and animal studies, aloe vera gel helped reduce blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity (5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).

May suppress inflammatory signals: In animal and test-tube studies, aloe vera extract suppressed inflammatory signals such as TNFα, IL-1 and IL-6 (8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source).

Reduce dental plaque: If used as a mouthwash, aloe vera juice may be as effective as a regular mouthwash in reducing dental plaque build-up (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).

May boost memory: In one animal study, consuming aloe vera gel helped enhance learning and memory while also reducing symptoms of depression (12Trusted Source).

Rich in antioxidants: Regularly eating aloe vera gel may raise blood antioxidant levels. Antioxidants help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are compounds linked to many chronic diseases (13Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Aloe vera has been linked to potential health benefits, such as reduced blood sugar levels, inflammation and dental plaque, as well as improved memory and antioxidant defenses.

Potential Dangers of Eating Aloe Vera

Eating aloe vera latex, a yellow substance that is found inside the leaf, has potential risks.

In small doses, eating the latex may help treat constipation by promoting contractions. However, in 2002 the US FDA banned the sale of over-the-counter products containing aloe vera latex due to safety concerns (14Trusted Source).

Long-term consumption of aloe vera latex has been linked to side effects, including stomach cramps, kidney problems, irregular heartbeat and muscle weakness (3Trusted Source).

In high doses above 1 gram per day, prolonged use may even be fatal (3Trusted Source).

Pregnant women should avoid eating the latex, as it may stimulate uterine contractions, which could cause a miscarriage (15).

In addition, people with digestive disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or Crohn’s disease, should avoid consuming aloe vera latex as it may worsen their conditions (15).

Aside from the latex, consuming aloe vera gel is not advised for people taking diabetes, heart or kidney medications, as it may worsen potential side effects from the drugs (1Trusted Source).

Avoid eating aloe vera skin care gels, as they do not offer the same benefits as the gel inside the leaf. Skin care gels may also contain ingredients that are not meant to be eaten.

SUMMARY

Aloe vera latex can be harmful, especially to pregnant women, people with digestive disorders and people on certain medications. You should also avoid aloe vera gel if you take diabetes, heart or kidney medications.

The Bottom Line

Aloe vera gel and skin can be eaten. The gel, in particular, may offer several health benefits.

Be sure to wash the gel or skin thoroughly to remove all traces of latex, which has an unpleasant bitter taste and may cause harmful side effects.

Never eat aloe vera skin care products. They do not offer the same benefits as the leaf and are not meant to be ingested.

What part of aloe vera is cancerous?

What is non-decolorized whole leaf extract of Aloe vera?

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) is a succulent plant used in some personal care products and home remedies, and to flavor some foods and beverages.

Proposition 65 lists a specific type of Aloe vera extract: non-decolorized whole leaf extract.

This extract from the plant’s leaves is not filtered to remove cancer-causing chemicals naturally found in the Aloe vera plant.

Most consumer products with Aloe vera do not contain this type of extract, and are not known to pose a cancer risk.  They contain decolorized whole leaf Aloe vera extract.  This extract is filtered to remove cancer-causing chemicals, and is not on the Proposition 65 list.

How does exposure to non-decolorized whole leaf extract of Aloe vera occur?

Exposure can take place by consuming products with non-decolorized whole leaf extract of Aloe vera or applying them to the skin.

A few consumer products contain this non-decolorized extract, though product labels do not always make this clear.

Home remedies with Aloe vera may pose a cancer hazard if the liquid extracted from the leaves is not properly processed to remove the cancer-causing chemicals.

During pregnancy, some chemicals of concern in non-decolorized whole leaf extract of Aloe vera can pass from mother to baby.

How can I reduce my exposure to non-decolorized whole leaf extract of Aloe vera?

If you are using Aloe vera products that contain whole leaf extract, check the label or check with the manufacturer to be sure that the extract has been decolorized.

If you are using whole Aloe vera leaves to make your own home remedies, take steps to remove the plant’s harmful chemicals, such as filtering the Aloe vera extract through an activated charcoal filter.

Aloe, a plant, produces two substances used in health care products — clear gel and yellow latex.

People primarily use aloe's clear gel topically in creams and ointments to treat burns, the skin condition psoriasis and even acne. Some also take the gel orally to treat certain conditions. Aloe latex, a laxative, has been taken orally to treat constipation.

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While aloe gel is generally safe when used as recommended, oral use of aloe latex poses safety concerns. In fact, taking 1 gram a day of aloe latex for several days can cause kidney damage and might be fatal.

Evidence

Research on the use of aloe for specific conditions shows:

Burns and wounds. Application of aloe gel appears to shorten the duration of wound healing for first- and second-degree burns. Aloe gel might also promote wound healing.

Acne. Research suggests that aloe gel, applied in the morning and evening in addition to the use of the topical prescription acne medicine tretinoin (Retin-A, Atralin, others), might be more effective in reducing acne than using a topical prescription alone.

Psoriasis. Aloe extract cream might reduce redness, scaling, itching and inflammation caused by mild to moderate psoriasis. You might need to use the cream several times a day for a month or more to see improvements in your skin.

Herpes simplex virus. Applying a cream containing aloe extract might help lesions heal sooner.

Oral lichen planus. Research suggests that twice-daily application of aloe gel for eight weeks might help reduce symptoms of this inflammatory condition that affects the inside of the mouth.

Constipation. Whether oral use of aloe latex is effective at treating constipation is unclear. While it acts as a laxative, aloe latex can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea.

Our take

Green light: Generally safe

Generally safe

Aloe gel is generally safe and can be effective in treating skin conditions such as burns and psoriasis.

However, avoid using aloe latex orally. Unprocessed aloe latex contains chemicals that appear to have the potential to cause cancer, and processed aloe latex might have cancer-causing compounds. Taking 1 gram a day of aloe latex for several days can cause kidney damage and might be fatal.

Safety and side effects

Aloe gel is generally considered safe when appropriately applied to the skin. It might be safe when appropriate doses are taken orally for a short time.

Aloe latex or whole-leaf extract taken orally might be unsafe and is likely unsafe in high doses. Taking 1 gram a day of aloe latex for several days can cause acute kidney failure and can be fatal. Aloe latex might also have the potential to cause cancer. Other side effects include abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Oral use of aloe latex and whole-leaf extract isn't recommended for children younger than age 12.

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Interactions

Possible interactions include:

Anticoagulants and anti-platelet drugs, herbs and supplements. These types of drugs, herbs and supplements reduce blood clotting. Oral use of aloe might also slow blood clotting. Taking aloe orally with either of these types of medications might lead to increased bleeding.

Digoxin (Lanoxin). Oral use of aloe latex can decrease potassium levels. Low potassium might increase the side effects of digoxin. Don't take aloe latex and digoxin together.

Diabetes drugs. Oral use of aloe gel, when taken in combination with diabetes drugs, might increase the risk of a condition characterized by an abnormally low level of blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Oral drugs. Oral use of aloe latex can decrease your body's absorption of other drugs. This might reduce their effectiveness.

Sevoflurane (Ultane). This anesthesia used during surgery might slow blood clotting. Oral use of aloe might have a similar effect. When used in combination, excessive bleeding during surgery is possible.

Stimulant laxatives. Oral use of aloe latex with stimulant laxatives might overstimulate your bowels. This can lead to dehydration.

Warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven). Oral use of aloe latex can cause diarrhea. This can increase the effects of warfarin, a blood-thinning drug, and the risk of bleeding.

Water pills (diuretics). Oral use of aloe latex, a laxative, in combination with use of diuretics might decrease potassium levels too much. Potassium supplementation might be needed.