Last verified: 15 days ago
Aloe Vera
Also known as: Aloe barbadensis miller, aloe gel, acemannan, aloe latex, aloesin, aloin
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Plant-based gel with real evidence for skin soothing, wound healing, and oral health. Less proven for internal use.
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What it does
Aloe vera is a succulent plant whose gel and extracts have been used medicinally for centuries. Clinical trials show it can reduce acne-related redness, help heal mouth ulcers comparably to...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
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Found in
Balance of Nature Fruits & Veggies, ADAM™ Men's Multiple Vitamin, Purolabs Collagen Complex and 9 more
What the Science Says
Aloe vera is a succulent plant whose gel and extracts have been used medicinally for centuries. Clinical trials show it can reduce acne-related redness, help heal mouth ulcers comparably to steroid creams, and reduce gum inflammation when used as a topical adjunct. Its active compounds — including acemannan polysaccharides, anthraquinones, and chromones — appear to work through anti-inflammatory and wound-healing pathways.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't reverse diabetes — that's a dangerous myth. No solid clinical evidence it cures cancer in humans. Aloe juice is not a proven blood sugar treatment. Don't expect it to replace prescribed medications for any condition.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Reduces acne-related redness comparably to laser treatment after 4–18 weeks of twice-daily use.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: Topical gel applied twice daily
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Heals minor mouth ulcers as effectively as steroid cream in most patients within 7 days.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: Topical gel applied every 6 hours for 7 days
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Reduces plaque buildup and gum bleeding when used as a massage adjunct to professional dental cleaning.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Topical gingival massage, 30 days
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Helps prevent and manage skin breakdown (dermatitis) in older patients with incontinence.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Topical application as part of nursing skin care protocol
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
May help relieve symptoms of radiation-induced skin damage in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for oral use. Topical gel is well-tolerated with direct local effect on skin and mucous membranes. Aloe latex compounds (anthraquinones) are absorbed orally but carry safety concerns.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Aloe latex (the yellow sap, not the clear gel) contains anthraquinones linked to carcinogenicity and organ toxicity — avoid products that don't specify 'decolorized' or 'purified' gel
- Drinking aloe juice to 'reverse diabetes' is a widespread myth flagged in clinical research as dangerous misinformation
- Product quality varies enormously — no standardization means you may not be getting active compounds at effective concentrations
- Aloe latex can cause severe diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney damage if consumed in large amounts
Products Containing Aloe Vera
See how Aloe Vera is used in these analyzed products:
Balance of Nature Fruits & Veggies
Supplement
ADAM™ Men's Multiple Vitamin
Supplement
Purolabs Collagen Complex
Supplement
Texas SuperFood Original Capsules
Supplement
zuPoo
Supplement
Water-Jel Cool Jel Topical Cooling Gel
Supplement
Navitas Organics Superfood+ Digestive Blend
Supplement
Holland & Barrett Argan Dag- En Nachtcrème
Supplement
Vital Gut Renew Powder
Supplement
Super Greens - The Original Supergreens
Supplement
Dr. Tobias Colon 14 Day Cleanse
Supplement
Preservative Free Inner Fillet Juice
Supplement
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Aloe Vera do?
Plant-based gel with real evidence for skin soothing, wound healing, and oral health. Less proven for internal use.
What is the effective dose of Aloe Vera?
No established dose
Is Aloe Vera safe?
Aloe latex (the yellow sap, not the clear gel) contains anthraquinones linked to carcinogenicity and organ toxicity — avoid products that don't specify 'decolorized' or 'purified' gel
What doesn't Aloe Vera do?
Won't reverse diabetes — that's a dangerous myth.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-09-09