Aloe Vera Juice Side Effects That You Should Be Aware of
Aloe Vera is considered as a miracle herb because of the several ailments it can heal.
Although it was originally cultivated in Africa, it is now grown in different parts of the world. It’s one of the few herbs that can be both applied topically and taken internally.
Applying Aloe on the skin will leave it moisturized, hydrated and young-looking while taking it internally can help strengthen the immune system.
Relieve stomach problems, lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, improve joint flexibility and reduce inflammation.
While Aloe is generally safe and only a few have reportedly developed allergic reactions towards it, you may want to know about Aloe Juice side effects to save yourself a trip to the clinic.
What are the Side Effects of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice
Here are some of the known side effects of taking Aloe Vera orally:
Some people have reportedly experienced abdominal cramps and diarrhea as a result of drinking Aloe juice. This is due to the plant’s laxative effects.
If you are suffering from diarrhea, you must know that this can reduce your body’s ability to absorb medications.
An imbalance of electrolytes can also occur leading to weakened muscles. This side effect is more notable in people with diabetes, heart diseases or kidney diseases.
Another drawback of drinking Aloe juice to relieve constipation is you might develop a dependency.
If you have been taking the juice for weeks and then you stopped altogether, your constipation might worsen.
Also, you might develop tolerance to Aloe latex and this can cause you to increase your intake, therefore, increasing your risk to possible side effects as well.
If you are trying Aloe for the first time, you have to take it in small doses and see your body reacts.
Allergic reactions to Aloe do not only imply skin sensitivity or itching and skin rashes.
Taking the herb orally can lead to facial swelling, breathing problems, tightening of the chest, etc. These reactions need immediate medical attention. Pretty scary, huh?
Dehydration and urine are other possible side effects of Aloe Vera when taken excessively. This can lead to kidney damage, blood build-up in the pelvis and worst cases; death. You might also like: What are the Benefits of aloe vera gel for natural hair
Drug Interactions
When taking Aloe Vera internally, you must know that it can interact with certain prescription medications.
If you have diabetes, you may want to ask your health care provider first before trying out Aloe for the first time.
Drinking the juice may reduce blood sugar levels. People who are suffering from hypoglycemia or those who are currently taking Metformin or Insulin to regulate blood sugar should be extra careful.
Taking diuretics and Aloe juice at the same time is not a good idea because you are potentially lowering your potassium levels in the blood.
You also have to exercise caution if you are taking drugs such as Sevoflurane, Warfarin, and Digoxin.
Because of Aloe’s laxative effects, the absorption of medicines in the body may be decreased. Also Read: Is it Safe to Take Aloe Vera When You’re Pregnant?
Who Should Not Take Aloe Vera Juice Orally?
- Someone who is pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Someone who is breastfeeding
- Someone who is menstruating
- Children
- Someone who is experiencing stomach cramps, intestinal spasms or abdominal pain
- Someone who is suffering from inflamed intestinal disease and appendicitis
- Someone who is taking diuretics
- Someone who is currently taking medications with cardiac glycosides
- Someone who is suffering from Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Disease
- Someone who just had a surgery like Laparotomy or Celiotomy (abdominal exploration).
To avoid Aloe juice side effects, the most logical thing to do is to have an allergy test.
If you are allergic to garlic, onion or anything that is classified under the Liliaceous family, you are most likely allergic to Aloe as well. The allergy test is very simple and can be done very quickly.
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