Aloe Vera - NutraPedia

Back to Table of Contents

Aloe Vera: An Overview

1) Studied Conditions

Aloe vera has been studied for various conditions, including:

  • Skin conditions like burns, psoriasis, and cold sores
  • Digestive ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and constipation
  • Diabetes, for its potential effects on blood sugar regulation
  • Dental plaque and gingivitis, when used as a mouth rinse

2) Efficacy in Treating Conditions

The efficacy of aloe vera varies by condition:

  • It may help improve wound healing and reduce the severity of psoriasis and cold sores.
  • Some evidence suggests benefits in reducing dental plaque and managing symptoms of IBS.
  • Its role in blood sugar management for diabetics is still inconclusive and requires more research.

3) Health Benefits

Aloe vera is known for its potential health benefits, including:

  • Moisturizing the skin and promoting a clear complexion
  • Providing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
  • Acting as an antioxidant, possibly fighting oxidative stress
  • Containing enzymes, vitamins, and minerals that may support overall health

4) Downsides

While aloe vera is generally safe, it does have potential downsides:

  • Topical use can occasionally cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Oral consumption of aloe latex, a component found in the plant's leaf, can cause cramps and diarrhea and may be harmful in high doses.
  • Long-term or excessive use internally may lead to electrolyte imbalances or harm to the kidneys.

5) Genetic Variations

There is limited research on aloe vera's effects concerning specific genetic variations. However, individual responses to aloe vera, like any substance, can vary based on genetic makeup, which can influence:

  • Metabolism of its components
  • Potential allergic reactions
  • Sensitivity to the laxative effects of aloe latex

Further research is needed to establish clear connections between genetic variations and the effects of aloe vera.

Aloe Vera and Vitamin Absorption

A study indicated that Aloe vera enhances the absorption of vitamins C and E. Plasma levels of these vitamins increased when taken with Aloe vera, and the Aloe preparations delayed peak vitamin concentrations in the plasma.

Aloe Vera in Cosmetics

Aloe-derived ingredients are used in cosmetics, primarily as skin conditioners. The industry regulates anthraquinone levels to minimize risks such as phototoxicity. Aloe gel, containing polysaccharides, offers benefits like antimicrobial and wound healing properties.

Aloe Vera and Metal Toxicity in Medicinal Plants

Research on Aloe vera sourced from West Bengal, India, found that the levels of heavy metals were within safe limits, ensuring the plant's safety for therapeutic use without metal toxicity risks.

Antibacterial Properties of Aloe Species

Three Aloe species traditionally used in South African rural communities demonstrated strong antibacterial properties and effectiveness against fungal species, supporting their use in treating skin ailments.

Chromatography Techniques in Aloe Analysis

New chromatographic techniques, such as nano-LC-MS and MEKC, have been developed to analyze Aloe plant extracts, identifying specific compounds like aloin and providing insights into the pharmacological effects of Aloe species.

Immunostimulatory Polysaccharide in Aloe Vera

The discovery of an immunostimulatory polysaccharide named Aloeride in commercial aloe vera juice suggests significant potential in the immune-stimulating properties of aloe vera products.

Aloe Vera's Impact on Health and Metabolism

Extensive research on Aloe vera's chemical composition and therapeutic uses has highlighted its health benefits and the need for further research to validate therapeutic claims. Aloe vera has also been found to reduce obesity-induced inflammation and improve liver lipid metabolism.

Aloesin Derivatives' Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Compounds found in Aloe vera, particularly aloesin derivatives, have shown potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, contributing to the plant's wound healing benefits.

Aloe Vera for Oral and Liver Health

Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of acemannan from Aloe vera in treating oral aphthous ulcers and the potential hepatotoxic effects of oral aloe vera intake, which could lead to acute hepatitis.

Conclusion

Overall, Aloe vera has been shown to offer various health benefits, including enhanced vitamin absorption, wound healing, and immune-stimulating properties. However, there are also potential risks like hepatotoxicity, emphasizing the need for careful use and further research.

References:


  1. Effect of Aloe vera preparations on the human bioavailability of vitamins C and E
  2. Final report on the safety assessment of AloeAndongensis Extract, Aloe Andongensis Leaf Juice,aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Juice, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Protoplasts, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice,aloe Barbadensis Leaf Polysaccharides, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract, Aloe Ferox Leaf Juice, and Aloe Ferox Leaf Juice Extract
  3. Determination of trace and heavy metals in some commonly used medicinal herbs in Ayurveda
  4. A comparative study of three Aloe species used to treat skin diseases in South African rural communities
  5. Analysis of Aloe-based phytotherapeutic products by using nano-LC-MS
  6. Determination of aloenin, barbaloin and isobarbaloin in aloe species by micellar electrokinetic chromatography
  7. Anthraquinones: analytical techniques as a novel tool to investigate on the triggering of biological targets
  8. Characterization of Aloeride, a new high-molecular-weight polysaccharide from Aloe vera with potent immunostimulatory activity
  9. Aloe vera as a functional ingredient in foods
  10. Dietary Aloe Reduces Adipogenesis via the Activation of AMPK and Suppresses Obesity-related Inflammation in Obese Mice
  11. Antioxidant, free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory effects of aloesin derivatives in Aloe vera
  12. Acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe vera, is effective in the treatment of oral aphthous ulceration
  13. Evaluation of the therapeutic effects of Aloe vera gel on minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis
  14. Aloe vera gel extract attenuates ethanol-induced hepatic lipid accumulation by suppressing the expression of lipogenic genes in mice
  15. Oral aloe vera-induced hepatitis
  16. Aloe-induced toxic hepatitis
  17. Euforia-induced acute hepatitis in a patient with scleroderma


Upload Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) raw DNA data today and take a deep dive into your genome!

Or if you only have standard microarray data currently, upload raw DNA data to get started with your free DNA raw data analysis today!