Aloe Vera Juice Extract
Also known as: Aloe barbadensis miller, Aloe gel, Aloe juice, Aloe vera
Overview
Aloe vera, a succulent plant native to tropical regions, is widely recognized for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. Extracted mainly from the gel or juice of the leaves, it serves various health purposes, including wound healing, skincare, and gastrointestinal relief. Aloe vera is rich in bioactive compounds like aloin, aloe-emodin, and acemannan, along with vitamins A, C, and E. Research surrounding Aloe vera is extensive, but the quality varies; while some studies present strong evidence for benefits like reducing chemotherapy-induced phlebitis and aiding glycaemic control, others show inconsistent results, particularly in wound healing applications. It is used in several forms, including topical gels and oral supplements, catering to a wide range of health conditions.
Benefits
Aloe vera has several evidence-based benefits. It is particularly effective in preventing chemotherapy-induced phlebitis, showing a significant reduction in incidence with a relative risk of 0.18 (95% CI: 0.10-0.32). A systematic review revealed its ability to improve glycaemic control, particularly in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, with a mean difference in fasting plasma glucose of -0.22 mmol/l. Additionally, Aloe vera mouthwash has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing plaque and gingivitis compared to chlorhexidine. While wound healing benefits are suggested, clinical evidence remains inconclusive. The most pronounced benefits appear for cancer patients and those with oral health issues.
How it works
Aloe vera's effectiveness is attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Compounds like acemannan stimulate cytokine production and enhance immune responses. Aloe vera gel influences skin and mucous membranes, promoting wound healing and reducing inflammation. Its biochemical activities also involve inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells through interactions with pathways involving p53 and NF-kappa B, enhancing cellular defense mechanisms.
Side effects
Aloe vera is generally safe for topical and moderate oral use, though several side effects may occur. Common adverse effects include allergic reactions and gastrointestinal issues, particularly when taken orally. Rare side effects remain largely unreported, but potential drug interactions with diabetes medications exist due to its impact on blood sugar levels. Caution is advised for individuals with known allergies to aloe or its components. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use, as long-term safety data in these populations are limited. Overall, excessive long-term use should be avoided.
Dosage
Optimal dosing for Aloe vera varies according to its application. For oral consumption related to glycaemic control, 300-500 mg of Aloe vera extract daily is generally recommended. In topical applications, it can be used as needed, usually applied 2-3 times per day. A mouthwash concentration of 0.5-1% is effective for oral health. Although no maximum safe dose is established, long-term high doses above 1000 mg/day should be used with caution. Absorption rates can differ based on whether it's used topically or orally, with recommendations to take oral forms with meals to lessen gastrointestinal side effects.
FAQs
Is Aloe vera safe to use?
Aloe vera is generally safe for most users, though allergies and gastrointestinal upset can occur. Long-term use and high doses should be monitored.
When is the best time to take Aloe vera?
Topical applications can be used as needed, while oral consumption is best taken with meals to minimize stomach upset.
How long does it take to see results from Aloe vera?
Improvements in glycaemic control and phlebitis reduction can typically be expected within several weeks to months.
Is Aloe vera a cure-all?
Aloe vera is not a cure-all; its effectiveness varies by condition, and strong evidence is limited for some uses.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32924222/ – An umbrella review of systematic reviews indicated strong evidence for Aloe vera's role in preventing chemotherapy-induced phlebitis while showing weaker support for other applications.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/aloe-vera – This resource summarizes Aloe vera's benefits, safety profile, and applications, particularly highlighting its use in oncology for supportive care.
- https://e-century.us/files/ijcem/9/6/ijcem0023233.pdf – A systematic review and meta-analysis noted that Aloe vera significantly improves fasting plasma glucose levels in individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpt.12382 – This meta-analysis confirmed Aloe vera's beneficial effects on chemotherapy-induced phlebitis, reporting substantial reductions in incidence rates among treated patients.
- https://www.cochrane.org/CD008762/WOUNDS_aloe-vera-for-treating-acute-and-chronic-wounds – A Cochrane review found no high-quality evidence supporting the efficacy of Aloe vera for wound healing, indicating inconsistent results with a high risk of bias.
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