Aloe Vera

Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f.

aloe vera

Safety Notes

Aloe gel applied to intact skin is well tolerated. Aloe LATEX (the yellow substance beneath the rind, distinct from the clear gel) is a different matter entirely: the FDA required its removal from over-the-counter laxative products in 2002 for lack of safety data, and 1 gram a day for a few days can cause kidney damage and may be fatal. Do not take aloe latex or whole-leaf extract internally. Avoid oral aloe of any kind during pregnancy and breastfeeding (risk of uterine contractions and miscarriage) and in children. People with kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or intestinal obstruction should avoid oral aloe. Not recommended for internal use alongside diabetes medications, digoxin, or diuretics without medical guidance.

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