Side Effects of Aloe Juice

Aloe vera has been regarded as a medicinal agent for centuries. It is often used topically to soothe and help speed the healing of skin ailments from sunburns to cuts. But it is not just good for topical ailments. The plant can also benefit internal body systems. Aloe vera juice, made from the crushed leaves, is known to have a positive effect on many of the body's systems and can improve overall health when used on a regularly.

Detoxifying Effects

• Drinking just 2 to 4 ounces of aloe vera juice can lead to improvement of the digestive and circulatory systems. It has a cleansing effect that will help eliminate toxins in the intestines and aid purification of the blood (see References). As a result of its detoxifying properties of the circulatory system, it purportedly will help produce a brighter complexion and improved skin tone. In addition, drinking aloe vera juice reportedly will cleanse the digestive tract by encouraging routine bowel movements and emptying the intestines of built-up fecal matter and toxins.

Weight Loss

• Because drinking aloe juice will have a cleansing affect on the digestive system and a mild laxative effect, it can aid weight loss by ridding the colon of built-up matter (see References). It is even more effective as a weight control agent because it controls the body's metabolism. By encouraging the body to metabolize energy at a faster rate, aloe juice forces the body to draw on reserves of fat and carbohydrates. Using energy from these stores leads to more calories burned and a consequent reduction in weight.

Additional Benefit

• Aloe vera juice can help fight bacteria and also has an anti-inflammatory effect. As a result, drinking the juice can lead to improved oral health. Specifically, it has been shown to reduce lichen planus, which is a chronic inflammatory disease that plagues the inside of the mouth (see References). Because of the natural sugars in aloe vera juice, it can also help regulate blood sugar levels. It has been known to have a positive effect on lower blood pressure and improve mobility of the joints.

External Effects

• While aloe vera juice is, of course, meant as a drink, it can also be used as a topical treatment. Aloe vera in gel form usually works best for this because it is thicker, but the juice can be used as a substitute. Aloe juice has anti-microbial properties that make it an ideal treatment for cuts, scrapes and mild infections (see References). It also has a soothing effect and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a popular treatment for sunburn. To treat skin conditions, simply soak a cloth or cotton ball in the juice and apply directly to the affected area. If the area is on a large portion of the skin, such as a sunburn, a few ounces can be added to a lukewarm bath.

Warning

• Aloe vera juice, when taking in small amounts, can have positive health benefits, but it can also do more harm than good if consumed in excess. Digestive problems, such as cramping and ulcers, can result. A fluid imbalance in the body might also result. As with any herb or alternative therapy, consult your doctor before beginning a regular routine of drinking aloe vera juice.