In the world of natural remedies, few plants have earned as much recognition and praise as aloe vera. Often referred to as the ” plant of immortality,” aloe vera has been used for centuries due to its remarkable health-promoting properties.
From skincare to digestive support, this succulent plant offers a wide range of potential health benefits that have stood the test of time. Let’s explore the far-reaching benefits of aloe vera, along with the impressive scientific evidence behind its effectiveness.
Whether you’re seeking a natural product to enhance your skincare routine or aiming to boost your overall health, aloe vera might just be the green elixir you’ve been searching for. Let’s explore the impressive research surrounding this extraordinary plant and discover the various ways it can support your health and well-being.
What Is Aloe?
Aloe, a succulent plant belonging to the Liliaceae family, has a rich history in traditional medicine dating back to ancient Egypt, nearly 6,000 years ago. [1]
With its notable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, aloe vera has been used for centuries to soothe various skin irritations including burns, wounds, sunburns, and acne.
Additionally, aloe vera has been used in ancient medicine to support gastric health by aiding digestion, soothing stomach discomfort, and promoting healthy bowel movements. [1]
The aloe plant is characterized by thick, spiky leaves containing a gel-like substance. While this gel-like substance is mostly water, it also provides bioactive compounds and nutrients that have been linked to various health benefits.
For example, aloe provides vitamins, minerals, and other compounds like aloesin, aloin, and emodin, all of which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. [2] The plant is also chock full of beneficial polysaccharides that are known for their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. [3]
Why Take Aloe Vera Supplements?
Incorporating aloe vera supplements into your daily routine may be an important step toward improved digestion, enhanced skin health, and support for your overall well-being. Whether in the form of pills, juice, or the plant itself, aloe vera’ offers a holistic approach to health and wellness.
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Promotes Healthy Skin Health from Within
Aloe vera has long been used for its remarkable ability to support skin health, and the research continues to validate its effectiveness. For example, studies have found that aloe vera gel can help soothe minor skin irritations such as dry, chapped skin by increasing collagen production at the site of the irritation. [4]
Additionally, the compounds found in aloe vera have been known to support moisture retention, skin integrity, and collagen production which can help keep your skin smooth and glowing. [4]
Supports Healthy Digestion
One of aloe vera’s standout benefits lies in its ability to promote digestive health. Aloe vera supplements, particularly in juice or pill form, are known for their natural laxative effect.
Studies have found that the plant’s inner gel contains compounds that soothe and cleanse the digestive tract, helping to relieve symptoms of occasional constipation and support nutrient absorption. [5]
Enhances Antioxidant Support
Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, aloe vera provides a variety of natural antioxidants that play an important role in neutralizing harmful free radicals in your body. [6]
These free radicals, often generated due to factors like pollution and stress, can damage cells . Aloe vera’s antioxidant properties not only help in preventing this cellular damage but can also boost your overall health.
Supports a Healthy Immune System
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, aloe vera provides important nutrients that strengthen your body’s natural defenses. Its polysaccharides, specifically acemannan, stimulate macrophages, which are vital immune cells, enhancing their ability to destroy harmful microorganisms. [7]
Additionally, aloe vera contains powerful polyphenols which are plant compounds that act as antioxidants that can further support your body’s immune system.
Aloe Vera Supplement Forms
From juices to capsules, you’ll find a wide range of aloe vera supplements to choose from, each with its unique properties.
- Aloe Vera Juice – One of the most common forms of aloe vera is aloe juice, often taken to promote healthy digestion.
- Aloe Vera Capsules – If you’re seeking the benefits of aloe vera without the taste or texture, capsules make for a convenient option. These supplements often contain processed aloe vera which has removed the laxative component, providing an alternative for people looking to reap the benefits without the potential laxative effect.
- Aloe Vera Gel – Aloe vera gel, often derived directly from the plant, is widely used topically for a variety of skin conditions. Its cooling and moisturizing properties make it a popular choice for sunburns, minor burns, and skin irritations.
Are Aloe Vera Supplements Safe?
Aloe vera supplements are generally considered safe but before adding any supplement into your routine, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with your health needs and goals.
Additionally, it’s important to note that while aloe vera juice may help support healthy digestion, it may cause digestive discomfort for some people. Aloe vera contains aloin, a compound with strong laxative properties, found in the latex layer just beneath the plant’s skin. [8]
When ingested in large quantities, aloin may lead to abdominal cramps and diarrhea. To mitigate this risk, some aloe vera products are processed to remove the latex, making them easier to digest. However, even aloe vera juice without latex can cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. Therefore, it’s important to start with small doses and monitor your body’s response carefully.
Aloe vera capsules, frequently taken as a convenient alternative to juice, are typically created from the dried latex of the plant. The drying process often removes the aloin which can eliminate the laxative effect. While this reduces the immediate risk of digestive upset, some people might still experience discomfort due to the high concentration of aloe vera. As a result, it’s best to start with a small dose as tolerated and work your way up.
Aloe gel (the part of the plant that’s commonly found in creams and moisturizers) is generally safe to use and as noted earlier, contains therapeutic properties for the skin when it’s applied topically.
Certain groups, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, individuals with gastrointestinal disorders, and those allergic to plants in the Liliaceae family, which includes aloe vera, should avoid aloe vera supplements altogether. These products can potentially interact with medications, making it necessary to consult your healthcare professional before incorporating them into your routine.
Takeaway
With a rich history and a strong foundation in scientific research, aloe vera’s health benefits have stood the test of time. From soothing skin irritations to supporting digestive health, aloe vera continues to offer a holistic approach to health.
Whether you opt for the convenience of aloe vera capsules or the refreshing appeal of aloe vera juice, adding this impressive plant into your daily routine may enhance your overall health and well-being for years to come.
References:
1. Surjushe A, Vasani R, Saple DG. Aloe vera: a short review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008;53(4):163-6. doi: 10.4103/0019-5154.44785. PMID: 19882025; PMCID: PMC2763764.
2. Sánchez M, González-Burgos E, Iglesias I, Gómez-Serranillos MP. Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and its Major Active Constituents. Molecules. 2020 Mar 13;25(6):1324. doi: 10.3390/molecules25061324. PMID: 32183224; PMCID: PMC7144722.
3. Liu C, Cui Y, Pi F, Cheng Y, Guo Y, Qian H. Extraction, Purification, Structural Characteristics, Biological Activities and Pharmacological Applications of Acemannan, a Polysaccharide from Aloe vera: A Review. Molecules. 2019 Apr 19;24(8):1554. doi: 10.3390/molecules24081554. PMID: 31010204; PMCID: PMC6515206.
4. Hekmatpou D, Mehrabi F, Rahzani K, Aminiyan A. The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review. Iran J Med Sci. 2019 Jan;44(1):1-9. PMID: 30666070; PMCID: PMC6330525.
5. Salehi B, Albayrak S, Antolak H, Kręgiel D, Pawlikowska E, Sharifi-Rad M, Uprety Y, Tsouh Fokou PV, Yousef Z, Amiruddin Zakaria Z, Varoni EM, Sharopov F, Martins N, Iriti M, Sharifi-Rad J. Aloe Genus Plants: From Farm to Food Applications and Phytopharmacotherapy. Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Sep 19;19(9):2843. doi: 10.3390/ijms19092843. PMID: 30235891; PMCID: PMC6163315.
6. Hęś M, Dziedzic K, Górecka D, Jędrusek-Golińska A, Gujska E. Aloe vera (L.) Webb.: Natural Sources of Antioxidants – A Review. Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2019 Sep;74(3):255-265. doi: 10.1007/s11130-019-00747-5. PMID: 31209704; PMCID: PMC6684795.
7. Bai Y, Niu Y, Qin S, Ma G. A New Biomaterial Derived from Aloe vera-Acemannan from Basic Studies to Clinical Application. Pharmaceutics. 2023 Jul 9;15(7):1913. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071913. PMID: 37514099; PMCID: PMC10385217.
8. Pressman P, Clemens R, Hayes AW. Aloe vera at the frontier of glycobiology and integrative medicine: Health implications of an ancient plant. SAGE Open Medicine. 2019;7. doi:10.1177/2050312119875921
