Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been used for thousands of years as a topical treatment for wounds, burns, and other skin conditions. It has also been used orally as an effective laxative. Today, Aloe Vera is used orally to treat a wide variety of conditions including asthma, epilepsy and diabetes; furthermore, Aloe Vera is still used topically as a treatment for sunburns, burns, and osteoarthritis. In addition to these uses, the FDA has approved Aloe Vera as a natural food flavoring.

Aloe Vera plants contain a clear gel inside that is the typically used topically. The leaves themselves that surround the gel can be used to create a juice or be dried to be taken orally.

Using Aloe Vera topically has not shown to produce any significant side effects. Taking this plant orally has shown mild side effects such abdominal cramping and diarrhea in some cases. The laxative effect of Aloe Vera can decrease the absorption of many drugs. Diabetics must also be aware that preliminary studies have shown that Aloe Vera may decrease blood glucose levels.

READ: The above information does not constitute as any sort of professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before taking any supplements or medications and before acting on any information found on this website.