Aloe Vera Juice Side Effects

Aloe vera has recently emerged as an excellent herbal product known for its healing and medicinal properties. It is known to be an effective remedy for treatment of wounds and burns. Aloe vera juice in itself has quite a few beneficial effects which includes relief from digestive problems, constipation, heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome. Aloe vera juice benefits include regulation of blood pressure, strengthening the immune system and blood sugar regulation. Although there are extensive benefits associated with this natural juice, there are certain aloe vera juice side effects which need to be highlighted as well. However, before we can look into the side effects let us see what aloe vera juice actually is.

Information

A concentrated juice that is made by extracting the liquid from the aloe vera leaves, this juice has a bitter taste. Most of the time, it is processed or combined with other juices to improve the taste of the juice. The juice contains minerals and enzymes which can help treat a number of problems.

Side Effects of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice

The side effects of aloe vera are rare and usually quite minor. However, it is important to pay attention to the side effects of this drink especially when you are suffering from a medical condition such as Crohn's disease, colitis, appendicitis and intestinal problems.

Allergic Reaction: In certain cases, aloe vera juice has been known to trigger off mild allergic reactions including skin rashes and itching. Too much of aloe vera juice or a poor quality of juice can also result in allergic reactions such as vomiting.

Abdominal Cramps: The laxative aloin present in aloe vera juice which has not been processed properly can lead to intestinal and abdominal spasms along with cases of the urine turning red. The reason for the aloe-induced toxicity are anthraquinones present in the aloe juice which can result in severe diarrhea and kidney damage.

Electrolyte Imbalances: Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are one of the most common side effects of aloe vera juice. The stimulant laxatives in unprocessed aloe vera juice can cause dehydration with frequent use.

Medical Conditions: People suffering from gastrointestinal diseases and irritable bowel syndrome need to stay away from aloe vera juice as the laxatives present in it can increase the severity of the diseases. In addition to this aloe vera juice is a strict no-no for people suffering from colitis, intestinal obstruction, diverticulosis, appendicitis, hemorrhoids and stomach pain or ulcers. People who have kidney or heart disease are advised to stay off aloe vera juice.

Pregnancy: Consuming aloe vera juice during pregnancy or while breast feeding is severely restricted due to its irritant and purgative properties. Aloe vera should be restricted during lactation as the presence of anthraquinones in the breast milk may lead to diarrhea. In pregnant women aloe vera juice can cause uterine contractions and even result in a spontaneous miscarriage.

Medication: Certain drugs and medication when combined with herbal products can cause a number of side effects. So in case you are on any of the drugs such as digoxin(Lanoxin), drugs that cause potassium loss, such as Bumex, Demadex, Edecrin, Lasix, and Sodium Edecrin, diuretics, drugs for irregular heartbeats and steroids, then it is advisable to abstain from aloe vera juice.

Delays Wound Healing: Aloe vera juice or topical aloe vera creams are not recommended in case there are severe wounds and burns as they can result in a delay in wound healing.

It is important to keep in mind that most of the aloe vera juice side effects are due to an over dosage or improper use. If you are suffering from any of these side effects then stop having aloe vera immediately and seek medical help as soon as you can. Also if you are on any medication, then seek the doctor's advise before having aloe vera juice.