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Evidence
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
ConstipationDried latex from the inner lining of aloe leaves has been used traditionally as a laxative taken by mouth. Further research is needed to establish dosing and to compare the effectiveness and safety of aloe with other commonly used laxatives. | B |
Genital herpesLimited evidence suggests that extract from Aloe vera in a water-soluble cream may be an effective treatment of genital herpes in males. Additional research is needed in this area before a strong recommendation can be made. | B |
Psoriasis vulgarisEarly evidence suggests that an extract from aloe in a hydrophilic cream may be an effective treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. Additional research is needed in this area before a conclusion can be made. | B |
Seborrheic dermatitis (seborrhea, dandruff)Early research on aloe lotion suggests effectiveness for treating seborrheic dermatitis when applied to the skin. Further research is needed in this area before a conclusion can be made. | B |
Cancer preventionThere is early evidence that oral aloe may reduce the risk of developing lung cancer. Further research is needed in this area to clarify if it is aloe itself or other factors that may cause this benefit. | C |
Canker soresThere is weak evidence that treatment of recurrent canker sores of the mouth with aloe gel may reduce pain and increase the amount of time between the appearance of new ulcers. Further research is needed before a firm conclusion can be made. | C |
Dental plaqueLimited evidence suggests that a dentifrice containing Aloe vera may be as effective as a fluoridated dentifrice for plaque and gingivitis control. Further research is necessary before conclusions can be drawn. | C |
DiabetesStudy results are mixed in patients with type 2 diabetes. It has been reported that children with type 1 diabetes use aloe to supplement their insulin treatments, although this has not been studied clinically. More research is needed to explore the effectiveness and safety of aloe in diabetics. | C |
Dry skinTraditionally, aloe has been used as a moisturizer. Early low-quality studies suggest aloe may effectively reduce skin dryness. Higher-quality studies are needed in this area. | C |
HIV infectionWithout further human trials, the evidence cannot be considered convincing either in favor or against this use of aloe. | C |
Lichen planusLichen planus causes an itchy rash of small purplish bumps, often on the arms, legs, back, or inside the mouth. It can also affect the genital area, including the vagina. Limited research suggests that aloe may be a helpful, safe treatment for lichen planus that affects the mouth or vulva. Additional research is needed. | C |
Skin burnsEarly evidence suggests that aloe may aid healing of mild-to-moderate skin burns. Further research is needed in this area. | C |
Skin ulcersEarly studies suggest aloe may help heal skin ulcers. High-quality studies comparing aloe alone in comparison with a placebo are needed. | C |
Ulcerative colitisThere is limited but promising research of the use of oral Aloe vera in ulcerative colitis (UC), compared to placebo. It is not clear how Aloe vera compares to other treatments used for UC. | C |
MucositisThere is early evidence that oral Aloe vera does not prevent or improve mucositis (mouth sores) associated with radiation therapy. | D |
Pressure ulcersEarly well-designed studies in humans found no benefit of topical acemannan hydrogel (a component of aloe gel) in the treatment of pressure ulcers. | D |
Radiation dermatitisReports in the 1930s of topical aloe's beneficial effects on skin after radiation exposure lead to widespread use in skin products. Currently, aloe gel is sometimes recommended for skin irritation caused by prolonged exposure to radiation, although scientific evidence suggests a lack of benefit in this area. | D |
Wound healingStudy results of aloe on wound healing are mixed, with some studies reporting positive results and others showing no benefit or potential worsening of the condition. Further research is needed, since wound healing is a popular use of topical aloe. | D |
A Strong scientific evidence for this use
B Good scientific evidence for this use
C Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work)
F Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work)
Grading rationale
Uses based on tradition or theory
The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Alzheimer's disease, anthelmintic, antifungal, antioxidant, antitumor, antiviral, arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis), asthma, bacterial skin infections, cancer, Candidal skin infections, chemoprotectant, chronic fatigue syndrome, congestive heart failure, corneal abrasions/ulcers, coronary artery disease prevention, diabetic ulcers, duodenal ulcer, frostbite, functional bowel disorders, gastric ulcer, gingivitis, hair loss, hemorrhoids, helminthic infections, hepatitis, human papilloma virus, hyperlipidemia, itchiness, leukemia, parasites, Parkinson's disease, peptic ulcer, periodontal surgical rinse, radioprotection, skin conditions, skin inflammation, stomach acid reduction, stomach ulcers, systemic lupus erythematosus, tic douloureux, untreatable advanced solid neoplasms, urolithiasis (bladder stones), uterine stimulant, vaginal contraceptive.
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