Aloe vera It is one of the most appreciated medicinal plants worldwide for its beneficial properties for both the skin and internal health. However, along with its many benefits, there are also Contraindications and side effects that need to be taken into account to avoid serious problems, especially in certain population groups or under specific conditions. In this article, you will learn in detail all the information about aloe vera, its recognized benefits, the different derivatives and presentations, as well as the essential precautions and contraindications for topical and oral use.
What is aloe vera and why is it so popular?
El aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller), also known as aloe, is a succulent plant with thick, fleshy leaves, widely appreciated for its regenerative, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and healing capacityNative to Africa and widespread throughout the world, it has been used since ancient civilizations for its therapeutic properties, both in traditional and modern medicine, as well as in the cosmetics and food industries.
Inside, it contains a clear gel which concentrates a large part of its active ingredients: vitamins (A, C, E, B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid), minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, potassium, sodium, iron), enzymes, essential amino acids and compounds such as polysaccharides and anthraquinones. In addition to its pulp, between the skin and the gel there is a substance called aloe latex, yellowish in appearance, which is the source of the famous aloin and other anthraquinones, largely responsible for its laxative effect and many of its contraindications.
Aloe vera is available in a variety of forms: pure gels, creams, balms, oral supplements, juices, capsules, and freshly extracted natural forms from the leaf.
Conservation and durability of aloe vera
One of the practical issues when using aloe vera is how to store it to ensure its benefits. Once a leaf is cut, the gel's properties begin to rapidly degrade due to oxidation and exposure to air and light. Therefore, it is recommended:
- Always use fresh leaves at the time of its application.
- If a penca is used for several days, it should be kept well covered in the refrigerator and use it within 20 days, since after that time its properties may be almost completely lost.
Unlike industrial gels, which contain preservatives, fresh aloe is more potent but also more delicate.
Main benefits and uses of aloe vera
Aloe vera has gained its fame thanks to a solid scientific and traditional basis that supports its benefits. multiple applications:
- Moisturizing and repairing: Its gel penetrates the deep layers of the skin, helps retain moisture and is ideal for treating dry, irritated skin, eczema or psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory and soothing: Reduces redness, inflammation, itching and skin discomfort.
- Healing: Promotes tissue regeneration in wounds, minor burns, small injuries and after waxing or shaving.
- Digestive properties: When used internally, it helps regulate intestinal transit, act as a mild laxative and relieve stomach discomfort (although this involves risks).
- Glucose and lipid control: Studies suggest that it may have a hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effect, helping to regulate sugar and cholesterol levels, but always under medical supervision.
- Antimicrobial and antiviral properties: Its gel is effective in preventing infections in small wounds.
In addition, aloe vera stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which contributes to smoother, more elastic skin, and is a common ally for post-sun care.
Contraindications of aloe vera: side effects and risks
Despite its many benefits, aloe vera can cause problems if not used properly.. exist adverse reactions and risk groups in which its use is restricted or contraindicated. Let's analyze case by case the situations in which aloe vera can be harmful.
1. Allergic reactions and skin sensitivities
Like other plants with active ingredients, aloe vera can trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals. This can occur with both the pure gel and derived products.
- Symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, rash, or burning sensation when applied to the skin.
- The risk increases if you use aloe latex or unfiltered products that include this component.
- For very dry or sensitive skin, overuse of aloe vera can disrupt the skin barrier and cause further dryness or irritation.
- Patch testing is always recommended.: Apply a little gel to your forearm and wait 24 hours to check for possible reactions.
2. Adverse reactions when applying aloe vera to deep wounds or serious burns
Aloe vera is excellent for relieving minor burns or chafing, but is contraindicated in:
- Open wounds, deep cuts or serious burnsIn these situations, aloe can delay healing and even promote infections due to its aloin and anthraquinone content.
- In case of major injury, always consult a healthcare professional before using any product, including aloe vera.
3. Risks of oral consumption: latex and derivatives
El aloe vera latex Located between the skin and the gel, it contains compounds such as aloin, which are potent laxatives and can cause serious adverse effects. Ingesting natural or industrial products containing aloe latex (or unfiltered juice) can cause:
- Diarrhea, cramps and abdominal pain.
- Electrolyte loss, especially potassium, which can lead to heart problems and muscle weakness.
- Dehydration and laxative dependence with prolonged use.
- Reddish coloration in the urine due to the elimination of pigments, which can be alarming but is not usually serious.
- Alteration in the absorption of medications if taken concomitantly (e.g., antibiotics, digoxin, corticosteroids, antidiabetics, anticoagulants, diuretics, etc.).
- Possible renal toxicity, especially with high doses or continued use.
Aloe vera products for internal consumption must always be of quality, filtered and free of anthraquinones.They should be used under the supervision of a physician, especially in people on chronic treatment.
4. Contraindications for specific groups
There are population groups for which aloe vera is expressly contraindicated:
- Pregnant and lactating womenAloe latex can cause uterine contractions and a risk of miscarriage, and can also pass into breast milk, causing diarrhea or discomfort in the infant.
- Children under 12 years: Do not use. Children XNUMX yeras to XNUMX years: XNUMX packet every XNUMX hours.: The laxative effect and potential toxicity can trigger diarrhea, pain, vomiting or poisoning.
- People with intestinal diseases (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, bowel obstruction, hemorrhoids): Aloe may worsen symptoms and cause more inflammation or diarrhea.
- Patients with kidney failure or liver diseaseAloe vera metabolites may worsen kidney and liver function.
- People with heart disease or taking diuretics: The risk of loss of potassium and other electrolytes is increased.
- Patients with autoimmune disordersAloe vera has immunomodulatory effects that can be counterproductive.
- People on anticoagulant treatment: Aloe may increase the risk of bleeding and enhance the effects of these medications.
- Diabetic individuals: It can reduce blood glucose and cause hypoglycemia, especially if combined with oral antidiabetics or insulin.
5. Interactions of aloe vera with medications and other products
Aloe vera can cause significant interactions with various medications.:
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets: Increases the risk of bleeding.
- Topical antibiotics and corticosteroidsAloe can modify the absorption, efficacy and toxicity of these drugs.
- Digoxin: By reducing potassium, you can enhance the side effects of this heart medication.
- stimulant laxatives: : Joint use may cause excessive dehydration.
- diabetes medications: It increases the decrease in glucose, with the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Diuretics: Joint use may aggravate the drop in blood potassium.
- Medications absorbed orally: Accelerated intestinal transit can make it difficult to absorb other treatments.
Therefore, always consult with a healthcare professional if you are going to incorporate aloe vera products and are already taking regular medication.
6. Risk of photosensitivity and sun exposure
In some cases, Aloe vera may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, making it more prone to burning. After applying aloe vera gel, especially to sensitive skin, It is recommended to use sun protection suitable if you are going to expose the treated area to the sun.
7. Special considerations for the home use of aloe vera
When using aloe vera directly from the plantExtreme caution must be taken to avoid contaminating the gel with the yellowish latex. Use only the transparent center of the leaf, avoiding the layer closest to the peel, and wash it thoroughly to reduce the presence of anthraquinones responsible for most adverse effects.
It is not recommended to apply homemade aloe vera to open wounds, serious burns, or ingest it without first consulting a doctor.
Safe use tips and practical recommendations
- Always perform a skin tolerance test before applying large amounts, especially to children, people with sensitive skin, or a history of allergies.
- Buy quality aloe vera products, dermatologically tested and preferably organic, if you are going to use them for cosmetic or internal purposes.
- Use low doses and gradually, especially if it is the first time you use it, both externally and internally.
- Consult your doctor if you have any medical condition, are pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, take regular medication, or if you have a personal or family history of allergies.
Frequently asked questions about aloe vera and its contraindications
- Can aloe vera be used on sunburns? Yes, for minor burns, but not for deep burns or open wounds.
- Is aloe vera juice safe to consume? Only if properly filtered and free of anthraquinones. Not safe for pregnant women, children, people undergoing chronic treatment, or those with digestive, liver, kidney, heart, or autoimmune conditions.
- Can aloe vera be applied to the intimate area? It is not recommended without a prescription, as it can cause irritation and alter the local microbiota.
- Is aloe vera suitable for all skin types? It is useful in most cases, but in very sensitive skin it can cause dryness or irritation if used frequently.
Aloe vera remains one of the most versatile and useful plants in the home, but its reputation as a "miracle" should not make us forget that it can cause serious health problems if not used properlyBefore incorporating natural products like aloe vera into your daily routine, learn about its benefits. uses, limitations and contraindicationsDoing so will allow you to benefit from all its properties responsibly and safely, minimizing risks and getting the most out of one of the most prized plants in natural medicine and modern cosmetics.
