Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant used topically for burns/wounds and orally for constipation. B-grade evidence for blood glucose in prediabetes, canker sores, and oral health. However, many clinical trial results are conflicting. IMPORTANT: Topical and oral forms have very different uses. Oral aloe latex (containing anthraquinones like aloin) is a potent laxative but can cause electrolyte imbalances with long-term use - FDA warning. Topical gel is generally safe. Evidence for burns and wound healing is mixed despite popular use.

Quick Answer

What it is

Aloe vera is a succulent plant used topically for burns/wounds and orally for constipation. B-grade evidence for blood glucose in prediabetes, canker sores, and oral health.

Key findings

  • Grade B: Blood glucose (Prediabetes)
  • Grade B: Dental Health Metrics (General Oral Health)
  • Grade B: Canker Sores Symptoms (Canker Sores)

Safety

  • Oral aloe latex (containing anthraquinones like aloin) is a potent laxative but can cause electrolyte imbalances with long-term use - FDA warning.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Aloe Vera

Quick Facts: Aloe Vera

  • Best Evidence:Grade B
  • Conditions Studied:8
  • Research Outcomes:20
  • Grade B Findings:3
  • Key Effect:Prediabetes
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B3
C1
D5
8 conditions Β· 20 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

Grade:
Effect:
Size:
Sort:
|
B
Blood glucose
Small improvement in fasting blood glucose
small↓Improves
?
HbA1c
6 studies
↑Worsens
?
Total cholesterol
4 studies
↑Worsens
?
Triglycerides
4 studies
↑Worsens
?
High-density lipoprotein (HDL)
3 studies
↑Improves
?
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
3 studies
↑Worsens
?
Insulin
2 studies
↑Worsens
B
Dental Health Metrics
Small improvement in dental health metrics
small↑Improves
D
Pain
No effect
4 studies
none
B
Canker Sores Symptoms
Small improvement in canker sore healing
small↓Improves
C
Blood glucose
Small improvement in blood glucose
small↓Improves
?
HbA1c
6 studies
↑Worsens
D
Pain
No effect on psoriasis pain
6 studies
none
D
Psoriasis Symptoms
No effect
none
D
Pain
No effect on skin-related pain
6 studies
none
?
Psoriasis Symptoms
↑Worsens
D
Dermatitis Risk
No effect on radiation dermatitis prevention
5 studies
none
?
Erythema
↑Improves
?
Itching
1 study
↑Improves
?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms
↑Worsens

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