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Aloe vera
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a cactus-like succulent plant with a clear healing gel in the leaves. There are many species of Aloe vera but the most commonly used is Aloe Barbadensis. Aloe vera is also known as Kumari in Ayurveda. It has many medicinal properties helpful in improving various ailments. Ayurvedic properties of Aloe vera are explained in the below shloka:
कुमारी शीतला तिक्ता मधुरा भेदनी जये। गुल्मप्लीयकृदद्धि कफचरहरी हरेत ग्रन्ध्याग्निदग्यविस्फोटपित्तरक्तत्वगामयान्॥ चक्षुध्या विधवातघ्नी बलकारका वृष्या रसायनी॥
वातपित्तकृमिहर कुमारी कफसुमं गुरु। - कै.नि औषधि वर्ग (1639-1640)
Aloe vera is Sita (cold) in potency, Tikta(bitter) in taste, and Bhedan (laxative) in nature. It is helpful in improving liver function. It provides beneficial results in burning sensations and other skin problems. Regular use of Aloe vera is also good for the eyes. It helps improve immunity which helps the body fight infection. This is due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property. Aloe vera is also effective in Vata-Pitta-Kapha balancing and worm infestation.
One of the most effective uses of Aloe vera gel is to manage various skin problems like acne and blemishes. Aloe vera is also good for controlling dandruff and hair loss. Aloe vera juice when taken orally helps reduce constipation due to its laxative property. Aloe vera juice is also used to lose weight and manage diabetes.
It is advisable to avoid Aloe vera during pregnancy as it may increase uterine contractions which may lead to a miscarriage. In some cases, Aloe vera might cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and skin irritations[1][3].
कुमारी शीतला तिक्ता मधुरा भेदनी जये। गुल्मप्लीयकृदद्धि कफचरहरी हरेत ग्रन्ध्याग्निदग्यविस्फोटपित्तरक्तत्वगामयान्॥ चक्षुध्या विधवातघ्नी बलकारका वृष्या रसायनी॥
वातपित्तकृमिहर कुमारी कफसुमं गुरु। - कै.नि औषधि वर्ग (1639-1640)
Aloe vera is Sita (cold) in potency, Tikta(bitter) in taste, and Bhedan (laxative) in nature. It is helpful in improving liver function. It provides beneficial results in burning sensations and other skin problems. Regular use of Aloe vera is also good for the eyes. It helps improve immunity which helps the body fight infection. This is due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property. Aloe vera is also effective in Vata-Pitta-Kapha balancing and worm infestation.
One of the most effective uses of Aloe vera gel is to manage various skin problems like acne and blemishes. Aloe vera is also good for controlling dandruff and hair loss. Aloe vera juice when taken orally helps reduce constipation due to its laxative property. Aloe vera juice is also used to lose weight and manage diabetes.
It is advisable to avoid Aloe vera during pregnancy as it may increase uterine contractions which may lead to a miscarriage. In some cases, Aloe vera might cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and skin irritations[1][3].
What are the synonyms of Aloe vera?
Aloe barbadensis Mill., Ghritkumari, Gheekumari, Khorpad, Gheekwar, Musabhar, Machambar, Ghritakalmi, Indian Aloe, Eliyo, Eariyo, Musabhar, Elva, Karibola, Lolesara satva, Lovalsara, Lolesara, Musabbar, Siber, Chenninayakam, Korphad, Musabara, Kalasohaga, Mussabar, Alua, Kattazhi, Satthukkathazhai, Musambaram, Musabbar, Ailiva, Siber[14][15].
What is the source of Aloe vera?
Plant Based
Benefits of Aloe vera
Modern Science View
Aloe vera can control constipation because of its laxative property.
Aloe vera acts as a natural laxative because of the presence of anthraquinones. Anthraquinones speed up the bowel movement and help in the easy excretion of stool[1][2].
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. You can also take 1 Aloe vera capsule two hours after taking food twice a day
5. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results[1][7].
Aloe vera acts as a natural laxative because of the presence of anthraquinones. Anthraquinones speed up the bowel movement and help in the easy excretion of stool[1][2].
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. You can also take 1 Aloe vera capsule two hours after taking food twice a day
5. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results[1][7].
Ayurvedic View
Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata Dosha. This can be due to the frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, high-stress level and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Aloe vera helps manage constipation due to its Vata balancing and Bhedana (elimination of feces by breaking hard stools) properties. It helps eliminate hard stools smoothly and manage constipation.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might lower the level of bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and prevent artery blockage.
This is due to the presence of phytosterols, glucomannan, fructose and glucose that helps in maintaining cholesterol levels[10][11]. Aloe vera gel may help in lowering serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, and serum phospholipids. It also prevents blockage in the arteries[20].
This is due to the presence of phytosterols, glucomannan, fructose and glucose that helps in maintaining cholesterol levels[10][11]. Aloe vera gel may help in lowering serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, and serum phospholipids. It also prevents blockage in the arteries[20].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes an accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Aloe vera helps in controlling high cholesterol because of its Ama reducing property. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera is good for weight loss by improving body metabolism. Although not enough studies are there, animal studies state that phytosterols present in Aloe vera reduce body weight[12][21].
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it in on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
Ayurvedic View
An excess Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body causes an increase in weight. Aloe vera can help manage weight by reducing Ama due to its property of Deepan (increase in the digestive fire).
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might be used as a complementary therapy in cancer treatment. Some studies suggest that Aloe vera gel might improve the immunity of cancer patients by increasing the number of white blood cells. It can also help minimize the side effects of chemotherapy[1].
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might help in alleviating depression. This is due to the presence of certain biochemical compounds such as flavonoids and amino acids[23].
Ayurvedic View
Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity that can affect a person's thoughts, behavior, feelings, and sense of well-being. In Ayurveda, Vata is responsible for the proper functioning of the nervous system and an aggravated Vata can be one of the causes of depression. Aloe vera has Vata balancing property and helps to control depression.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might help people with HIV by improving their immunity. Although there are no studies on human, animal studies suggest that Aloe vera might improve the immune system in HIV infected individuals by increasing the number of white blood cells[6].
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might help manage diabetes by improving blood glucose as well as insulin levels. This is due to the presence of phytochemicals such as lectins, mannans in Aloe vera. Some studies also suggest that Aloe vera might prevent cell damage such as ulcers, wounds, kidney damage associated with diabetes due to its antioxidant property[9][18][19][22].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes, also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Aloe vera helps remove Ama and controls aggravated Vata due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This thus helps control high blood sugar level.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
5. Consult the doctor if you are on anti-diabetes drugs.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it.
3. Drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
4. Continue this for 2-3 months for better results.
5. Consult the doctor if you are on anti-diabetes drugs.
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Aloe vera in case of inflammatory bowel disease.
Ayurvedic View
Ama is one of the causes for inflammatory bowel disease and Aloe vera might be good for IBD as it helps reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. But it is advisable to use Aloe vera with caution because of its Rechana (laxative) effect.
How effective is Aloe vera?
Likely effective
Constipation, Obesity
Likely ineffective
HIV infection
Insufficient evidence
Cancer, Depression, Diabetes, High cholesterol, Inflammatory bowel disease
Precautions when using Aloe vera
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
1. Prolong use of Aloe vera for laxative effects may induce diarrhea and cramping[24].
2. Aloe vera might prolong the bleeding time. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding[3].
3. Avoid the intake of Aloe vera gel with Castor oil as it may cause diarrhea and dehydration[3].
2. Aloe vera might prolong the bleeding time. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding[3].
3. Avoid the intake of Aloe vera gel with Castor oil as it may cause diarrhea and dehydration[3].
Ayurvedic View
1. Avoid Aloe vera during diarrhea because it can worsen the condition. This is due to its Rechana (laxative) property.
2. Take Aloe vera with caution during irritable bowel disease because of its Rechana (laxative) property.
2. Take Aloe vera with caution during irritable bowel disease because of its Rechana (laxative) property.
Allergy
Modern Science View
People who are allergic to garlic, onions or other plants of the family Liliaceae may also be allergic to Aloe vera. In such cases, consult a doctor before using Aloe vera[24].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Avoid Aloe vera if you are breastfeeding as it is found to be unsafe[3].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Aloe vera may lower the blood glucose levels. So it is generally advised to monitor the sugar levels regularly while taking Aloe vera along with other anti-diabetic drugs[3].
Patients with kidney disease
Important
Modern Science View
Aloe vera might cause low potassium levels and electrolyte imbalance. So it is generally advised to monitor the potassium levels while taking Aloe vera[3].
Pregnancy
Important
Modern Science View
Avoid Aloe vera during pregnancy as it may cause a miscarriage by increasing uterine contractions[1][3].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Stomach pain
2. Stomach cramps
3. Diarrhea
4. Blood in the urine
5. Low potassium levels in the blood
6. Muscle weakness[3]
2. Stomach cramps
3. Diarrhea
4. Blood in the urine
5. Low potassium levels in the blood
6. Muscle weakness[3]
Recommended Dosage of Aloe vera
- Aloe vera Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as directed by the doctor.
- Aloe vera Juice - 2-3 teaspoons in a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
- Aloe vera Leaf extract - 1-2 pinch in a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
- Aloe vera Pulp - 1/4-1/2 teaspoon a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
How to use Aloe vera
1. Aloe vera juice
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
b. Mix it with an equal quantity of water and drink immediately.
c. For better results, drink it preferably in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Aloe vera capsule
a. Take 1 capsule of Aloe vera after meals or as prescribed by the doctor.
b. Follow this twice a day.
3. Aloe vera pulp
a. Remove the pulp from the inner side of fresh Aloe vera leaves.
b. Take about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon and add it to your favorite smoothie or fruit juice.
c. Blend well and drink it immediately preferably in your breakfast[16].
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Aloe vera juice.
b. Mix it with an equal quantity of water and drink immediately.
c. For better results, drink it preferably in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Aloe vera capsule
a. Take 1 capsule of Aloe vera after meals or as prescribed by the doctor.
b. Follow this twice a day.
3. Aloe vera pulp
a. Remove the pulp from the inner side of fresh Aloe vera leaves.
b. Take about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon and add it to your favorite smoothie or fruit juice.
c. Blend well and drink it immediately preferably in your breakfast[16].
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Aloe vera juice should be refrigerated in order to retain its freshness and increase its shelf life.
Modern Science View
It is best to use Aloe vera gel soon after it is extracted from the leaf. But, it can be stored in a clean and closed container in the refrigerator for 8-10 days.
Tips:
1. Add Lemon juice to Aloe vera gel to keep it fresh for a longer time.
2. Store Aloe vera gel in the freezer to last long.
3. Commercially available Aloe vera gel can be kept either in room temperature in a dry place away from heat.
Tips:
1. Add Lemon juice to Aloe vera gel to keep it fresh for a longer time.
2. Store Aloe vera gel in the freezer to last long.
3. Commercially available Aloe vera gel can be kept either in room temperature in a dry place away from heat.
Modern Science View
Aloe vera leaves should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying and losing its benefits.
Tip:
Wrap the leaves with a plastic sheet or store the leaves in sealable plastic bags and then refrigerate.
Tip:
Wrap the leaves with a plastic sheet or store the leaves in sealable plastic bags and then refrigerate.
Modern Science View
Yes, in some cases, Aloe vera gel may cause a stinging feeling, when first applied to the skin or to the wound, but the unpleasant feeling passes in 5-10 minutes.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can wash your face after applying the Aloe vera gel. But keeping Aloe vera gel on face overnight is beneficial for the skin. It helps to make the skin soft and hydrated.
Do remember to do a patch test before applying Aloe vera gel on the face as some people are found to be hypersensitive to Aloe vera.
Do remember to do a patch test before applying Aloe vera gel on the face as some people are found to be hypersensitive to Aloe vera.
Modern Science View
1. Take 1-2 teaspoon Aloe vera gel or as per your requirement.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice.
3. Mix well and apply on the face.
4. Keep for 10-15 minutes and wash your face with plain water.
5. You can also apply Aloe vera gel on your face and keep it overnight for acne scars.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice.
3. Mix well and apply on the face.
4. Keep for 10-15 minutes and wash your face with plain water.
5. You can also apply Aloe vera gel on your face and keep it overnight for acne scars.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can apply the Aloe vera gel and keep it overnight. This will make your skin supple and hydrated. But do remember to do a patch test before applying Aloe vera on your face for any allergic reactions.
Ayurvedic View
Both Aloe vera juice and gel have various health benefits and the use depends solely on the purpose. If you have gastric problems then Aloe vera juice is better because of its Rechana (laxative) property. Similarly, Aloe vera gel is a good choice if you are using externally for skin problems due to its Ropan (healing) nature.
References
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- Chithra P, Sajithlal GB, Chandrakasan G. Influence of Aloe vera on collagen characteristics in healing dermal wounds in rats.Mol Cell Biochem.1998;181(1-2):71–76.
- WebMD.Aloe vera: Uses, Side effects, Interactions, Dosage [Internet]. Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
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- Yongchaiyudha S, Rungpitarangsi V, Bunyapraphatsara N, et al.Antidiabetic activity of Aloe vera L juice.Clinical trial in new cases of diabetes mellitus.Phytomedicine.1996;3(3):241-243.
- Choudhary M, Kochhar A, Sangha J. Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effect of Aloe vera L. in non-insulin dependent diabetics. J Food Sci Technol.2014;51(1):90–96.
- Alinejad-Mofrad S, Foadoddini M, Saadatjoo SA, et al. Improvement of glucose and lipid profile status with Aloe vera in pre-diabetic subjects: A randomized controlled-trial. J Diabetes Metab Disord.2015;14(22):1-7.
- Misawa E, Tanaka M, Nabeshima K, et al. Administration of dried Aloe vera gel powder reduced body fat mass in diet-induced obesity (DIO) rats.J Nutr Sci Vitaminol.2012;58(3):195-201.
- Karim B, Bhaskar DJ, Agali C, et al. Effect of Aloe vera mouthwash on periodontal health: triple blind randomized control trial.Oral Health Dent Manag.2014;13(1):14-9.
- WebMd.Uses for Aloe vera.[Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
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- Zarrintan A, Mobasseri M, Zarrintan A, et al.Effects of Aloe vera supplements on blood glucose level and lipid profile markers in type 2 diabetic patients – A randomized clinical trial.Pharmaceutical Sciences.2015:65-71.
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.