Side Effects of Using Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is one of those popular plants with several uses. Though originated in Africa, this plant is now grown in various parts of the world. It is used for medicinal as well as cosmetic purposes. Apart from the gel, the latex of the plant is also found to have medicinal applications and is used in various aloe products. In some products, both the gel and the latex are found, as the leaves of this herb are crushed in whole. Even though, aloe vera is widely used for its medicinal values and is considered safe, the herb may cause certain side effects in some users. While allergic people are prone to develop aloe side effects, such reactions may be seen in normal people too. Even use of adulterated aloe vera products may cause side effects. Excessively high doses and prolonged use are among the most common cause of aloe side effects. Scroll down to know more about side effects of using aloe vera.

Side Effects of Using Aloe Vera Orally

As mentioned above, aloe vera is either applied topically or is taken internally. The possibility of side effects are higher in case of oral intake, as compared to topical application. Such side effects are mostly linked to very high doses and/or prolonged use. The following are some of the side effects of aloe vera, in people who take the herb orally.

• Allergic reactions is one of the common side effects of using aloe vera. This applies to both topical as well as internal use. While some people develop minor allergic reactions like itching and skin rash, some others may experience severe symptoms like facial swelling, breathing trouble, tightness in chest, etc. In case of severe allergic reactions, seek medical attention immediately and discontinue use of aloe vera.
• Oral intake of aloe vera as a laxative may cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. In such cases, prolonged use may result in dependency and after discontinuation of its use, severe constipation may occur. People with hemorrhoids should not use aloe vera, which can worsen the symptoms.
• The laxative effects of aloe vera can result in electrolyte imbalances in blood. It can lower potassium levels in blood and may result in irregular heartbeats, weakness and soft muscles. This side effect of using aloe vera is prominently seen in people with diabetes, heart diseases or kidney diseases. Hence, it is said that such people should avoid usage of aloe vera or its products.
• Studies conducted in rats proved that aloe extract made from whole aloe leaves can be carcinogenic. This is mainly because of the presence of aloin, which is found in aloe latex. Some species of aloe vera has higher levels of aloin. Though, there is no proof of any such action of aloe vera in humans, its possibility cannot be ruled out. So, aloe products without aloin are said to be safer. It is also suggested that taking aloe vera for longer durations may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
• Oral intake of aloe vera may also lower blood sugar levels. Those who are undergoing treatment for diabetes or hypoglycemia should take expert advice before using aloe vera. According to some reports, prolonged use of aloe vera may lead to hepatitis. People with thyroid disorders should also avoid intake of aloe vera.
• Frequent intake of aloe vera may cause dehydration and reddish urine. Aloe vera overdose can cause blood build-up in the pelvis, kidney damage and even death in some cases. It is also important to note that aloe vera injections must be strictly avoided, as it may cause serious side effects.

Aloe Vera Topical Application and Side Effects

Avoid Aloe Vera, If...

You have digestive disorders

You have diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract

You are pregnant or nursing

You have kidney problems, heart diseases or thyroid disorders

You are elderly or too young

You have undergone a surgery or plan to have one

You are taking certain prescription medication

Usually, topical use of aloe vera is found to be free of side effects. But in some people, it may cause stinging sensations, mild itching or hypersensitivity reactions. As in case of internal use of aloe vera, topical application may also cause allergic reactions. Those who are allergic to plants like garlic, onions and tulips (those belonging to Liliaceae family) may develop allergic side effects after using aloe vera. If you are allergic to cacti plants, then also there are increased chances of having aloe vera allergy. While some people are allergic to aloe vera right from the time of their birth, it has also been observed that those who use aloe vera regularly, develop allergic reactions all of a sudden. This could be due to the presence of some toxin or other substance (in the body), that reacts with aloe vera to cause such symptoms. So, try to find out the substances that cause such reactions. They may include anything you are using while taking aloe vera. In such cases, you may either discontinue using aloe vera or avoid using substances that cause such reactions. Before doing so, consult your physician and herbal practitioner. It is said that using aloe on severe burns and wounds may delay the healing process. The same happens to surgical wounds too. Avoid application of aloe products on face after dermabrasion, as it causes redness and burning. Don't apply aloe products before exposing your skin to the sun, else would result to rashes on the applied areas.

Aloe Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Oral intake of aloe vera during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not advisable. It can cause cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and uterine contractions which may lead to spontaneous abortion. Nursing mothers should also avoid oral use of aloe products as it may cause health problems in the newborn. Even dried juice of aloe leaves are not recommended. Although topical application of aloe vera gel is said to be devoid of complications, always consult your doctor before using it. Kids are also not supposed to use aloe vera.

Aloe Vera Drug Interactions

When taken orally, aloe vera may interact with certain prescription drugs. These include diabetes drugs, which are used to lower blood sugar. Aloe is also said to have blood sugar lowering properties. So, diabetics who take aloe vera may either lower the dose of prescription drugs or monitor their blood sugar levels carefully. Diuretics may lower the potassium levels in the blood. Aloe vera with its laxative effects, may also have the same effect. So, taking both simultaneously, is not advisable. Sevoflurane, warfarin and digoxin are some of the drugs that may cause negative effects, if taken with aloe vera. It is also possible that absorption of medicines in the body may get hampered with intake of aloe vera, which has laxative effects.

The above said is only a brief overview about the possible side effects of using aloe vera. There is no conclusive evidence to prove the benefits as well as side effects of this herb. The above mentioned side effects are based on certain studies and medical case reports only. So, it is very much necessary to take aloe vera internally, only after consulting your physician. Such herbal treatment must be taken, according to the instructions of a qualified herbal practitioner, but, beware of adulterated products. It will be better to avoid very high doses and prolonged use of aloe vera, so as to avoid side effects. Though it is rare, if you experience any aloe vera side effects, discontinue its use. In case of severe side effects, immediate medical attention must be sought.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.