Aloe
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Clear gel from the pulp of Aloe vera leaves has been used on the skin for thousands of years to treat wounds, skin infections, minor burns and other skin conditions. Dried latex from the inner lining of the leaf has traditionally been shown to have laxative effects and may help to treat irritable bowel syndrome.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Constipation (laxative) B
Dandruff/seborrhea (sebhorrheic dermatitis) B
Genital herpes B
Psoriasis B
Cancer prevention C
Canker sores (aphthous stomatisis) C
Diabetes (type 2) C
Dry skin C
HIV infection C
Lichen planus C
Skin burns C
Skin ulcers C
Ulcerative colitis C
Wound healing C
Mouth sores (mucositis) D
Pressure ulcers D
Radiation dermatitis D
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic to aloe or other plants of the Liliaceae family (garlic, onions, tulips). Avoid injecting aloe. Avoid applying to open, surgical wounds or pressure ulcers. Avoid taking by mouth with diarrhea, bowel blockage, intestinal diseases, bloody stools, hepatitis, a history of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), electrolyte imbalances, diabetes, heart disease or kidney disease. Avoid taking by mouth if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Dependency on using laxatives, delayed wound healing, redness or burning when applied to the skin, hepatitis, electrolyte imbalances, rash, diarrhea, lowered blood sugar levels, low blood potassium levels, irregular heartbeat, stomach cramping, dehydration, muscle spasms of the uterus.

Possible interactions:
Drugs that affect blood sugar levels, some heart drugs (like digoxin), some blood pressure drugs like thiazide diuretics ("water pills like hydrochlorothiazide), laxatives, corticosteroids (taken by mouth or applied to the skin), some HIV drugs, hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, anti-cancer agents, licorice, and herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:
Aloe gel can be applied on top of the skin. Immediately seek a qualified healthcare provider to treat bad burns (blistering, oozing, bleeding).

Adults (18 years and older):
Topical (skin) use of aloe gel is common and appears to be well tolerated.
40-70mg capsules of aloe latex (dried inner lining of the leaf) have been taken by mouth daily for up to seven days.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Topical (skin) use of aloe gel in children is common and appears to be well tolerated.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.