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Herbs & Supplements
Aloe barbadensis
Scientific Name: Aloe
Other Names: Aloe species, Aloe vera, Burn Plant, Cape Aloe
What side effects should I watch for?
Major Side Effects
Taking aloe juice for prolonged amounts of time has been associated with kidney damage. Some deaths have been attributed to kidney failure caused by long-term or high-dose oral use of aloe juice.
At least one case of hepatitis has been linked to the oral use of capsules containing aloe.
Taking aloe juice regularly may lead to reduced potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can result in muscle weakness and potentially dangerous changes in heart rhythm.
Recently, researchers found that certain cells in human skin convert chemicals in aloe to potentially harmful substances that make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Individuals who use aloe preparations on the skin should be aware that the areas treated with aloe may be more likely to sunburn.
Less Severe Side Effects
Possible side effects from aloe juice may include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Weight loss
Applying aloe gel to the skin rarely produces side effects. However, some cases of contact dermatitis may have been caused by handling aloe plants or applying aloe gel. Symptoms of contact dermatitis may include red, itchy skin or rashes.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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What side effects should I watch for? 
