What are the benefits of drinking aloe juice?

Hi S. Gillette-Palmer, 

Thank you for such a thorough answer! I'm not sure about adding aloe juice into my diet, but I'll keep this in mind for any future sunburns! 

Best, 

Dani

Hi Daniluna,

Thank you for sharing your question with the EmpowHER community!

For many years Aloe Vera have been used both externally and internally with claims of having positive benefits which have been supported medically and scientifically.   Specifically when it comes to using it on our largest organ (the skin), it’s been marketed by the cosmetic and alternative medicine industries as having rejuvenating, healing or soothing properties.

It’s recommended as a soothing solution for sensitive skin or to help with the discomfort of sunburn.   Studies have shown it is potentially effective in treating minor burns, dandruff and even psoriasis.

There are benefits to taking Aloe juice (also called latex) orally, but it’s important to know some forms of aloe vera are safer than others.   Pure aloe vera inner leaf juice is recommended.  A product free of Aloin (an extract of the plant that has been found to cause cancer) is fine as both a topical remedy for let’s say a sunburn or to drink in juice form as a complimentary supplement.  

However, chronic use is discouraged because high oral doses of aloe or aloe latex are dangerous (i.e. A dependence on aloe latex for bowel function).

Risk:  Don’t take oral aloe if you have intestinal problems, heart disease, hemorrhoid, kidney problems, diabetes or electrolyte imbalances.  

Aloe vera juice contains vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12 and folic acid.  It’s also rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium and potassium.

Benefits Include:

• Detoxifying
• Supports the immune system
• Lowers cholesterol and Blood sugar
• As well as aids in digestion.

It is highly recommended to consult your doctor, prior to adding aloe or aloe latex into your diet.  Below are some additional links to various resources on the topic:

Aloe Vera--Soothing to the Skin, From Burns to Psoriasis

Aloe Vera – Is it Safe to Eat?

Aloe Vera—As Healing to Our Insides as it is to Our Outsides

WebMD – Vitamins and Supplements Lifestyle Guide

Has this been helpful?  I hope so.  Please don’t hesitate to ask additional questions or share additional concerns.