Aloe vera Capsules can be used to keep the bowels functioning smoothly, or when there is an impaction, although it can cause intestinal cramping when taken internally, and there are other herbs that do this job better. It is not recommended as a general laxative. There is a mixture commercially available that is a combination of various Aloe species that is then concentrated after blending. It is called Aloin, and is used as a laxative. I would not recommend it for general daily use, or the body may become dependent. Using aloe internally is not always a good choice for those with irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, or ulcers, as it can irritate these conditions from its strong actions, so do seek guidance from a health care professional to determine if aloe is right for your specific case. People without these kinds of problems usually tolerate aloe internally without a problem. Aloe has also been used internally to treat mouth sores and for thrush (candidiasis).
It aids in healing wounds by drawing out infection, and preventing infection from starting. It has been shown to promote wound healing by increasing the availability of oxygen to the wound as well as increasing the strength of the collagen needed to rebuild the damaged tissues. The gel dries into a sort of "bandage" that aids in healing open wounds. This also makes it a good treatment for eczema, psoriasis, and other such skin problems.
Aloe Vera has been used to treat radiation burns and acid burns as well as frostbite. In cases of sunburn or frostbite, add one or two cups of fresh aloe juice to a tub of lukewarm water. Soak, and then reapply aloe gel to the affected areas after the bath. For those little kitchen mishaps, cut off a small piece of a leaf and apply the fresh gel directly to the burn or cut. The plant will heal itself by sealing off the cut. Another useful remedy is to peel the outer leaves off the inner gelatinous parts, and place in a blender with 500 milligrams of Vitamin C per cup of gel. Mix well, then store in the refrigerator. This salve is very soothing to mild burns. Serious burns and deep wounds may require other treatments first, and then aloe applications, so you should check with a health care professional in these cases.
A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the body's natural resistance. Studies have shown acemannan boosts T-lymphocyte cells that aid the immune system. There are various studies being conducted at this time involving HIV and AIDS internal treatment with aloe. This is not a treatment that should be attempted without professional guidance at this time, however.
Pregnant women should not use Aloe internally, as it can cause cramping that will bring on uterine contractions. For this reason it should not be used during the menstrual cycle, either. Those who have difficulty with intestinal cramping should never use aloe vera internally. Avoid its internal use for children under the age of 12.
Aloe is found in thousands of commercial products for hair, skin, and overall beauty for people and animals. Americans have typically been taught to use it only externally, while the rest of the world uses it for a wide range of treatments, including skin cancers, eye inflammations, hemorrhoids, gall bladder problems, ulcers, abscesses, and many other uses. Check with your health care professional to see if this herb is right for you.
Aloe's actions are purgative, laxative, immune-enhancing, mucilaginous, bitter, vulnerary, demulcent, emollient, emmenagogue, and astringent.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size 2 caplets
Servings Per Container 30
Amount Per Container 60 Amount Per Serving %DailyValue
Aloe Vera 450 mg *
Percent daily value based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Daily value not established.
Other Ingredients: Magnesium stearate, Talcum and Gelatin.
THIS NATURAL PRODUCT MAY VARY IN COLOR OR TASTE. THIS DOES NOT REFLECT VARIATION IN POTENCY.
