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Last verified: 17 days ago

Aloe Vera

Also known as: Aloe barbadensis, Aloe barbadensis leaf, Aloe barbadensis miller, Cape aloe, Burn plant, Lily of the desert

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Traditional plant used topically for burns and skin, and orally for digestion. Evidence is limited.

See full breakdown ↓ Methodology →

What the Science Says

Aloe vera is a succulent plant whose gel and latex have been used medicinally for thousands of years. Topically, it is most commonly applied to minor burns, sunburns, and skin irritation, where it may provide soothing and moisturizing effects. Taken orally, aloe vera gel is traditionally used to support digestive comfort and bowel regularity, though the quality of clinical evidence for internal use is limited and no specific effective dose can be confirmed from the studies available.

What It Doesn't Do

Not a proven cancer treatment — ignore any claims suggesting otherwise. Won't detox your liver or cleanse your blood. No solid evidence it cures IBS or Crohn's disease. Drinking aloe juice won't give you glowing skin. The latex form is not a safe long-term laxative. Not a substitute for medical wound care.

Evidence-Based Benefits

Topical aloe gel soothes minor burns, sunburns, and skin irritation.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Oral aloe vera gel may support bowel regularity in some adults.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Topical aloe vera gel helps moisturize and hydrate dry skin.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data available from provided studies. Topical gel is applied directly to skin. Oral bioavailability of active compounds like acemannan is not well characterized.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Aloe latex (the yellow layer under the skin) contains anthraquinones and is classified as a possible carcinogen by some health agencies — avoid products that don't specify 'decolorized' or 'purified' gel
  • Long-term oral use of unpurified aloe products has been linked to liver toxicity in case reports
  • Aloe latex acts as a stimulant laxative and can cause electrolyte imbalances, especially potassium loss, with regular use
  • May interact with diabetes medications, diuretics, and heart medications — consult a doctor before oral use
  • Products vary wildly in concentration and purity; '200:1 extract' labels are often marketing with no standardized meaning
  • Topical aloe may delay healing of deep surgical wounds — not appropriate for all wound types

Products Containing Aloe Vera

See how Aloe Vera is used in these analyzed products:

Navitas Organics Superfood+ Digestive Blend

Supplement

Mostly Legit

Texas SuperFood Original Capsules

Supplement

Overhyped

Holland & Barrett Sunscreen

Supplement

Mostly Legit

ADAM™ Men's Multiple Vitamin

Supplement

Mostly Legit

Holland & Barrett Argan Dag- En Nachtcrème

Supplement

Mostly Legit

Vital Gut Renew Powder

Supplement

Overhyped

Purolabs Collagen Complex

Overhyped
View all product reviews →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Aloe Vera do?

Traditional plant used topically for burns and skin, and orally for digestion. Evidence is limited.

What is the effective dose of Aloe Vera?

No established dose from provided studies

Is Aloe Vera safe?

Aloe latex (the yellow layer under the skin) contains anthraquinones and is classified as a possible carcinogen by some health agencies — avoid products that don't specify 'decolorized' or 'purified' gel

What doesn't Aloe Vera do?

Not a proven cancer treatment — ignore any claims suggesting otherwise.

Research Sources

  • General knowledge — no paper abstracts were provided for this analysis. All claims reflect traditional use and broadly known safety considerations, not confirmed clinical trial data.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25