Aloe vera can cause various side effects, particularly when ingested as latex or whole-leaf extract, or when used topically by sensitive individuals[1].
- Digestive Issues: Oral use of aloe can lead to diarrhea, abdominal cramps, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium), especially due to the laxative properties of aloin found in the latex[1][2][3][5][6].
- Kidney and Heart Problems: Long-term or high-dose ingestion of aloe latex has been associated with kidney failure and, in rare cases, fatality; cardiac issues may also occur[1][2][3][4][6].
- Liver Toxicity: Cases of hepatitis, including acute toxic hepatitis, have been reported following oral intake of aloe preparations, which typically resolved after discontinuing use[1][5].
- Skin Reactions: Topical aloe vera may irritate the skin, cause burning, itching, hives, rashes, or allergic reactions in certain people, especially those allergic to garlic, onions, or tulips[1][3][5][6].
- Photosensitivity: Oral aloe preparations could increase skin sensitivity to sunlight for some individuals[3].
- Allergic Reactions: Hypersensitivity is more common in individuals allergic to plants in the lily family[1][3].
- Increased Bleeding Risk: Aloe vera may have antiplatelet effects and could interact with anesthesia or blood thinners, potentially increasing bleeding risk before surgery[1][3][5].
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Oral use is considered unsafe as it has been linked to miscarriage, birth defects, and potential harm to the baby; topical use may be safer but should still be discussed with a healthcare provider[2][4][5][6].
- Children: Oral aloe latex and whole-leaf extracts are unsafe for children under 12, causing stomach pain, cramps, and diarrhea[2][4][6].
- Interactions: Aloe vera may interact adversely with medicines such as blood thinners (warfarin), heart medications (digoxin), diabetes drugs, diuretics, stimulant laxatives, and corticosteroids[3][5][6].
- Contraindications: People with intestinal conditions (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, obstruction), kidney disease, diabetes, or hemorrhoids should not use oral aloe latex[2][4][6].
- Other Risks: Aloe can stain the colon, complicating colonoscopy procedures[3]. Some animal studies have suggested a possible link between non-decolorized aloe extracts and gastrointestinal cancer, though this risk appears related mostly to unprocessed products not commonly used by consumers[5].
References
- [1] Aloe vera: A review of toxicity and adverse clinical effects – PMC
- [2] Aloe – Uses, Side Effects, and More (WebMD)
- [3] Aloe Vera: Health Benefits, Common Uses, Side Effects, and Risks (WebMD)
- [4] Aloe: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions (RxList)
- [5] Aloe Vera: Usefulness and Safety | NCCIH
- [6] How to Use Aloe Vera Plant: Benefits, Risks, and More (Healthline)