Side effects of Aloe Vera

July 28, 2018 Grandma's Medicine Valli Sarvani No comments

Aloe vera is one of the most common ingredients that is widely used in alternative healing substances these days.

Due to its health properties, it is also being used in cosmetics, herbal medicines and food supplements.

Aloe vera is used in two forms –the gel and the latex in medicines.

The aloe gel which is mainly made up of water and the gel like substance in the aloe leaf contains many vitamins like A, B, C and E.

The gel is very beneficial for skin and hair problems. And it is also used by people with different health conditions including hepatitis, diabetes, asthma, stomach ulcers, fever, itching, obesity and inflammation.

The gel is used to prepare juice which is used in ayurvedic medicines.

The latex is the yellow substance that comes from beneath the plant’s skin.

Either aloe vera gel or latex should not be used in excess as they have some side effects.

Some people may have allergies to the latex. It should not be consumed orally as it can lead to stomach cramps and kidney related problems. It may also lower your potassium levels.
The consumption of aloe vera juice in excess can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps and muscle weakness. It can even lead to loss of vision and kidney failure.
If you use aloe vera gel for a long time, it may lead to skin allergies and skin rashes.
Since aloe vera can lower blood sugar levels, diabetics should take utmost care while consuming it.
The ingestion of aloe vera is not recommended to pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
Aloe vera when taken in high doses can lead to liver problems. The compounds of aloe vera may interfere with liver function and cause liver damage.
Consuming aloe vera juice in high doses leads to loss of electrolyte balance due to diarrhea.
Consumption of aloe vera is not suggested for persons who suffer with hemorrhoids as it may worsen their symptoms.