Aloe vera
Aloe vera, family Asphodelaceae. Part discussed: Leaf gel (and latex).
Identity
- Common name
- Aloe vera
- Botanical name
- Aloe vera
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Part or material
- Leaf gel (and latex)
- Classification
- Botanical
- Educational category
- Skin and External Care
About
Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., Asphodelaceae. NCCIH lists synonyms Aloe barbadensis, Aloe africana, Aloe arborescens.
Forms and distinctions
Three materially different parts or forms are recorded, leaf gel (inner leaf), latex (outer leaf layer), and whole crushed leaf including non-decolorized whole-leaf extract. Safety profiles diverge sharply by form and are not interchangeable.
Safety considerations
In 2002 the US FDA required removal of aloe latex from over-the-counter stimulant laxative products for lack of safety data; IARC has classified non-decolorized whole leaf extract as a possible human carcinogen, as reported by NCCIH; oral aloe latex can cause abdominal pain, cramps and diarrhea; oral consumption of aloe leaf extracts has been related to cases of acute hepatitis; overuse of aloe latex may increase risk of adverse effects from cardiac glycosides such as digoxin; aloe taken by mouth may be unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding; topical gel is generally well tolerated with occasional burning, itching, rash and eczema.
References
- NCCIH Aloe Vera · US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
This entry is educational. It is not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not a statement about any Pam Oh Herbs Collection or its contents. It carries no dosage and no claim of effect.