Health Benefits of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice

The aloe vera plant is a succulent plant species from the genus Aloe. It grows abundantly in tropical climates and has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant.

Aloe vera juice is a gooey, thick liquid made from the flesh of the aloe vera plant leaf. Historically, it’s been used both topically and orally.

Some have praised the potential health benefits of aloe vera when consumed as juice or in other forms. Let’s check out some of these benefits.

Contains Antioxidants

Based on test-tube studies, it’s thought that the aloe plant boasts anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why many people use it to treat and relieve certain skin conditions, like burns and wounds. Its proposed anti-inflammatory activity is thanks to polyphenols, a group of antioxidant-rich plant compounds.

Antioxidants help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals — also known as oxidative stress. Research has shown that chronic oxidative stress can increase the risk of some health conditions, including heart disease and even some cancers.

May help treat skin conditions and improve skin appearance

Aloe vera is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for burns and other skin disorders like atopic dermatitis. Many of the benefits of aloe vera on skin health are seen when it’s applied topically, rather than consumed as a drink. Still, limited research on oral aloe vera supplements does exist. One study found that taking 40 mcg of aloe sterol per day for 12 weeks improved skin elasticity in a group of men under age 46. Another study similarly found that consuming aloe vera improved collagen production and reduced the appearance of wrinkles in a group of women over age 40. It’s important to note that in both of these studies, aloe was consumed as a supplement, not juice. Additionally, while this research is promising, it’s not conclusive and more human trials are needed.

May be beneficial to Diabetes treatment

Research has indicated that both the gel and juice from aloe vera may lower fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Further, another study observed that aloe juice improved both blood sugar and blood fatty acid levels in those with pre-diabetes. While this sounds promising, research is limited. Larger, randomized, and controlled trials are needed to confirm the relationship between aloe vera juice and blood sugar control.

Additionally, aloe vera extract supplements are not standardized, regulated, or considered a safe alternative treatment for diabetes.

May help with digestive issues

Aloe vera juice contains anthraquinone glycosides. These are plant compounds with laxative effects that could help relieve constipation. However, research on this topic is outdated and the safety of using aloe vera juice to treat constipation is unknown.

In 2002, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) no longer approved aloe vera laxatives for over-the-counter sales, as they haven’t been tested to confirm their safety and efficacy. Some preliminary research suggests that aloe vera syrup could help treat and reduce the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Other early research shows promising results for using aloe vera extract to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Ultimately, while it’s possible that aloe vera may have digestive benefits, there’s not yet enough research indicating the safety or dosage of its use for these purposes.

May improve dental and oral health

Some animal studies suggest that aloe vera offers antibacterial properties and could support the treatment of some dental and oral conditions.

Plus, a study in 74 people with oral submucous fibrosis — a chronic condition that causes pain and inflammation in the mouth — showed that taking 1 ounce (30 mL) of aloe vera juice twice daily for 3 months was as effective as traditional treatments like hydrocortisone injections.

Another study found that an aloe vera mouthwash effectively reduced the severity and pain related to oral mucositis — a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation treatments — in individuals with head and neck cancers.

Further, a study in 64 people with cancer found that using an aloe vera mouthwash solution 3 times daily for 14 days helped reduce the occurrence and associated pain of chemotherapy-induced stomatitis, which is an infection in the mouth. It’s also speculated that aloe vera mouthwash could help reduce dental plaque and manage pain and swelling following oral surgery. Although more long-term data is needed, these studies indicate that aloe vera juice could offer an alternative approach to treatments for certain dental and oral conditions.

Aloe Vera juice considerations

Generally, aloe vera juice can be consumed as a drink, while the gel is often applied topically.

It’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional before trying anything new when it comes to your diet and health including adding aloe vera juice or supplements to your routine.

This is especially true if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding as the safety of aloe vera products remains unknown in these groups.

Similarly, be sure to review aloe vera supplements or juices with your doctor first if you’re taking any medications to avoid possible interactions.

Take Home

Aloe vera is commonly known as a topical gel used to treat sunburn. Promisingly, it may also provide other health benefits, largely due to its antioxidant properties.

Preliminary research has indicated that aloe vera may benefit your skin, dental, oral, and digestive health. It may even improve blood sugar control. However, more long-term data from human clinical trials is needed to confirm these benefits.

Be sure to talk with a healthcare professional before trying any aloe vera products, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications.