11 Facts About Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant species of the genus Aloe.

Aloe vera leaves contain phytochemicals under study for possible bioactivity, such as acetylated mannans, polymannans, anthraquinone C-glycosides, anthrones, and other anthraquinones, such as emodin and various lectins.

Techniques based on DNA comparison suggest Aloe vera is relatively closely related to Aloe perryi, a species endemic to Yemen.

Aloe vera latex is used individually or manufactured as a product with other ingredients to be ingested for relief of constipation.

Aloe vera gel is used commercially as an ingredient in yogurts, beverages, and some desserts, but at high or prolonged doses, ingesting aloe latex or whole leaf extract can be toxic.

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Aloin, a compound found in the semi-liquid latex of some Aloe vera species, was the common ingredient in over-the-counter laxative products in the United States until 2002 when the Food and Drug Administration banned it because manufacturers failed to provide the necessary safety data.

Aloe vera has potential toxicity, with side effects occurring at some dose levels both when ingested and when applied topically.

Aloe vera juice is marketed to support the health of the digestive system, but there is neither scientific evidence nor regulatory approval for this claim.

Aloe vera is used in traditional medicine as a skin treatment.

Aloe vera is used on facial tissues where it is promoted as a moisturizer and anti-irritant to reduce chafing of the nose.

Orally ingested non-decolorized aloe vera leaf extract was listed by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment among "chemicals known to the state to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity".