Drinking purified aloe vera juice is a traditional remedy to keep the digestive system healthy and to make the skin supple and radiant.
But natural aloe vera juice, made from aloe gel, contains bio compounds called anthraquinones.
Anthraquinones are usually removed from commercial aloe products as they can cause adverse health effects like cramping and diarrhea.
Let us look at the possible aloe vera juice side effects. Read on to know.
1. Bloating & cramping
Aloe latex is commonly used as a treatment for constipation. However, there have been cases of people complaining of abdominal cramps, gas, and diarrhea after the oral use of aloe latex. So, make sure you drink purified aloe vera juice to avoid abdominal discomfort.
2. Allergy reactions
A report revealed that the consumption and topical use of aloe can cause skin irritations, hives, cramping, and diarrhea. This was found in cases where individuals were allergic to other plants in the lily family such as onions and tulips.
3. Drug interactions
A report stated that aloe vera juice may risk the side effects of drugs that are substrates of Cytochrome P450 3A4 and CYP2D6. The website also clearly states a warning to cancer patients regarding aloe vera injections and says it can be fatal. Also, if you are taking sevoflurane, an anesthetic, aloe may have an additional antiplatelet effect causing excessive bleeding during surgery.
Other considerations
Pregnant women should advise caution while having aloe vera juice as aloe latex can cause uterine contractions. Also, nursing mothers should avoid it as it can cause cramping in infants.
If you experience any side effects after drinking aloe juice, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately.
