Aloe Vera

Natural health supplements sometimes have unexpected side effects or interactions with medication that can lead to adverse reactions that are sometimes life threatening. The following is a list of cautions that you should be aware of before using aloe vera (aloe barbadenis). These are referred to as drug/herb interactions.

Warning 1 – Contraindications: Aloe vera is counterindicated for use on deep vertical (surgical) wounds because it may increase healing time.

Warning 2 – Antidiabetics: When taken internally, aloe vera may increase the effects of antidiabetics.

Warning 3 – Antidysrhythmics: When taken internally, aloe vera may increase the effects of antidysrhythmics.

Warning 4 – Loop Diuretics: When taken internally, aloe vera may increase the effects of loop diuretics.

Warning 5 – Thiazide Diuretics: When taken internally, aloe vera may increase the effects of thiazide diuretics.

Warning 6 – Potassium-wasting Drugs: When taken internally, aloe vera may increase the effects of potassium-wasting drugs.

Warning 7 – Systemic Steroids: When taken internally, aloe vera may increase the effects of systemic steroids.

Warning 8 – Cardiac glycosides: When taken internally, aloe vera may increase the effects of cardiac glycosides.

Used as a natural health remedy: Aloe vera is commonly used externally for first degree burns, cuts, abrasions and improve skin condition.

Usage 2: Aloe vera is commonly used internally for constipation, as a general tonic and for wound healing.

Usage 3: Aloe vera improves digestion and cleans the digestive tract.

Side Effects of Aloe Vera

The known side effects of taking aloe vera internally include the following:

1. Gastrointestinal (GI) cramping
2. Diarrhea
3. Nephritis (inflammation of the kidney)
4. Hypokalemia (abnormally low potassium level in the blood)
5. Albuminuria (excessive protein in urine)
6. Hematuria (blood in urine with chronic use, red urine)

Other side effects may also occur when using aloe vera internally. (See form below)

As with any herb, a serious allergic reaction is possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. These may include a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Return to the Herb List.

For questions and answers about the side effects of herbs see the Herb Forum

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