Common name: Aloe Vera
Latin name: Aloe vera
Parts commonly used: leaf gel
About Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is one of the herbs many Americans ask about, so Herbalist Kareem has included it in this guide for your education. Below you will find a short, plain-language overview of how this herb has traditionally been used, how people commonly enjoy it, and the safety points everyone should know before adding it to a daily routine.
Traditional uses
Aloe has been used for thousands of years in Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas. The clear inner gel is traditionally applied to soothe the skin, and aloe juice is traditionally taken to support digestion.*
Traditional use describes how people and cultures have worked with a plant over many generations. It is a valuable part of herbal knowledge, but it is not the same as medical proof, and every body responds differently.
How it is commonly enjoyed
Used as a skin gel, or as a purified inner-leaf juice in small amounts. Start with small amounts, follow the directions on the product label, and pay attention to how your body responds. Herbs work best as part of a balanced lifestyle that includes whole foods, water, movement, and rest.
Safety notes
Important caution: This is an herb that calls for extra care. Please read the safety notes below carefully and speak with a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Aloe latex (the yellow layer under the skin) is a strong laxative and is not considered safe to take by mouth; choose products made from the purified inner-leaf gel. Avoid taking aloe by mouth during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or in children. It may affect blood sugar and some heart and water-pill medications.
As with any herb: avoid it if you have a known allergy to the plant or its plant family, ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if you take prescription medications, and talk with your provider before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or giving herbs to a child. Stop use and seek medical care if you notice any unusual reaction.
What researchers are studying
Scientists continue to study Aloe Vera. One example from the published literature is a scientific review:
Kaur S, Bains K (2024). Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera). International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition.
Research like this is often early, small, or done in the lab, and it does not prove that Aloe Vera treats or prevents any condition. We share it so you can see that this herb is a subject of ongoing scientific interest.
Curious about herbal teas? Visit our Peoria tea bar or explore our custom herbal tea blend to build a cup that fits your taste.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always talk with a qualified healthcare provider before using herbs, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or managing a health condition.