Herbs

Aloe vera (by mouth)

Also called: aloe vera juice, aloe latex

Gel or juice from aloe leaves.

Why people take it
Constipation, digestion.
What the evidence says
Gel on skin may help burns; taken by mouth, little evidence.
How it is usually taken
Gel drinks in small amounts; aloe latex (the laxative part) is not recommended.
Be careful
Aloe latex is a strong laxative; whole-leaf extract caused cancer in animals. Avoid regular use.
Medicines it can interact with
Latex lowers potassium (risky with digoxin and diuretics) and may lower sugar.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicorice

Common questions

What is Aloe vera?

Gel or juice from aloe leaves.

Why do people take Aloe vera?

Constipation, digestion.

Does Aloe vera work?

Gel on skin may help burns; taken by mouth, little evidence.

How much Aloe vera do people take?

Gel drinks in small amounts; aloe latex (the laxative part) is not recommended.

Is Aloe vera safe?

Aloe latex is a strong laxative; whole-leaf extract caused cancer in animals. Avoid regular use.

Does Aloe vera interact with medicines?

Latex lowers potassium (risky with digoxin and diuretics) and may lower sugar.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.