Written By: Tania Tarafdar | Updated : September 2, 2015 6:19 PM IST
Aloe vera is a powerful medicinal plant that is therapeutic for many conditions. It is mostly used topically as a remedy for burns, acne, dry skin, stretch marks and blemishes. Having said this, there are certain compounds in the plant that can lead to side effects when consumed internally in its pure form in large quantities. Here are some of the side effects you may experience.
Leads to diarrhea
Aloe vera juice contains a laxative anthraquinone which when taken in large amounts can result in diarrhea. Severe diarrhea can cause cramps, pain and dehydration. Also do not consume aloe vera if you are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and other gastrointestinal problems as the laxative can lead to a severity of the problem[1].
Interferes with medications
Aloe vera juice can cause reactions when consumed with other medicines so make sure that you consult your doctor before consuming aloe vera internally. The laxative present in aloe vera can inhibit the absorption of certain drugs in the body[2].
Makes you dehydrated
Excessive intake of aloe vera can lead to dehydration and an imbalance of electrolyte levels in your body. The intake of aloe vera may also change the colour of your urine[3].
Drop in potassium levels
Excessive consumption of aloe vera can lower potassium levels in your body leading to irregular heartbeats and weakness[4]. It can also make the body produce excessive amounts of adrenaline which can be harmful to you if you suffer from a heart condition.
Reduces blood sugar levels
Drinking aloe vera juice may also lower blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance[5]. So be cautious about consuming aloe vera if you are suffering from hypoglycaemia or are taking medications such as insulin to regulate blood sugar.
Causes miscarriage and birth defects
You should strictly avoid aloe vera if you are pregnant or lactating. It has irritant and purgative qualities that can stimulate uterine contractions that can lead to miscarriage and birth defects[6]. It is also not considered safe for children below 12 years of age.
Leads to allergic reactions
Drinking aloe vera juice may also result in allergic reactions like itchy or swollen skin, rashes, irritation in the throat and chest pain[7].
Don t fret as you may only experience the side effects of aloe vera if you consume it in excessive amounts, exceeding the recommended dosage. If you plan to consume aloe vera, it is recommended that you consult a doctor first.
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References:
[1] Foster M, Hunter D, Samman S. Evaluation of the Nutritional and Metabolic Effects of Aloe vera. In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press; 2011. Chapter 3.
[2] Banu, A., Sathyanarayana, B., & Chattannavar, G. (2012). Efficacy of fresh Aloe vera gel against multi-drug resistant bacteria in infected leg ulcers. The Australasian Medical Journal, 5(6), 305 309.
[3] Fox, L. T., du Plessis, J., Gerber, M., van Zyl, S., Boneschans, B., & Hamman, J. H. (2014). In Vivo skin hydration and anti-erythema effects of Aloe vera, Aloe ferox and Aloe marlothii gel materials after single and multiple applications. Pharmacognosy Magazine, 10(Suppl 2), S392 S403.
[4] Saka, W., Akhigbe, R., Popoola, O., & Oyekunle, O. (2012). Changes in Serum Electrolytes, Urea, and Creatinine. Journal of Young Pharmacists : JYP, 4(2), 78 81.
[5] Okyar A, Can A, Akev N, Baktir G, S tl pinar N. Effect of Aloe vera leaves on blood glucose level in type I and type II diabetic. Phytother Res.2001 Mar;15(2):157-61. PubMed PMID: 11268118.
[6] Rodriguez-Fragoso, L., Reyes-Esparza, J., Burchiel, S., Herrera-Ruiz, D., & Torres, E. (2008). Risks and Benefits of Commonly used Herbal Medicines in M xico. Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 227(1), 125 135.
[7] Ahlawat, K. S., & Khatkar, B. S. (2011). Processing, food applications and safety of aloe vera products: a review. Journal of Food Science and Technology(5), 525 533.
