7 Surprising Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice

by John Staughton (BASc, BFA) last updated - Medically reviewed by Emily Borth(MS, RDN)

Used medicinally for thousands of years, cold press aloe vera juice has become even more popular in recent years, as more studies on its active ingredients show the health potential of this plant juice.

Aloe vera, also known by its botanical name, Aloe barbadensis miller, is a species of plant from the Asphodelaceae (Liliaceae) family, that grows well in tropical regions. Aloe vera leaves contain the majority of the active ingredients and are widely harvested everywhere this plant grows. A few compounds found within this plant are vitamins (antioxidants A, C, and E as well as B12, folic acid, and choline), nine minerals, eight enzymes, saponins, salicylic acids, and more. [1]

Nutrition Facts

Beverages, aloe vera juice drink, fortified with Vitamin C
Serving Size :
NutrientValue
Water [g]96.23
Energy 15
Energy [kJ]61
Ash [g]0.02
Carbohydrate, by difference [g]3.75
Sugars, total including NLEA [g]3.75
Calcium, Ca [mg]8
Iron, Fe [mg]0.15
Sodium, Na [mg]8
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid [mg]3.8
Sources include : USDA [2]

Health Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice

The benefits of drinking aloe vera juice first thing in the morning include reducing inflammation, speeding healing, and stimulating digestion. It also helps in improving liver function which detoxifies the body, boosting immunity, and protecting the heart. Aloe juice is also used for increasing hydration, treating sunburn, soothing the skin, hair care, and relieving heartburn, among others.

Boosts Immunity

As per the USDA National Nutrient Database, aloe vera juice contains vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, A, and E, as well as calcium and sodium. This juice, thus, works wonders for your immune system. Additionally, there are anti-inflammatory compounds (salicylic acid) and other phytonutrients such as anthraquinones that act as antiviral and can provide support against pathogens and chronic illness. [3] [4]

Protects Heart Health

Aloe vera juice can protect cardiovascular health in a number of ways. By helping to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels naturally, this juice can help reduce the risk of associated heart disease. [5]

A 2012 report based on the effects of aloe vera leaf gel on some of the atherosclerosis risk factors, and fatty streak formation in hypercholesterolemic rabbits, showed that it significantly decreased the total cholesterol levels in rabbits receiving a cholesterol-rich diet. [6]

Fresh aloe vera leaves and a glass of aloe vera juice on a wooden table

Using aloe vera juice or gel helps in detoxifying your body. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Skin Care

A powerful moisturizer used in the treatment of dry skin, aloe vera has been shown to improve skin integrity, tighten
pores and reduce acne. Regular consumption of this juice can help give your skin a natural glow and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles through the stimulation of fibroblasts which produce collagen and elastin fibers. [7] [8]

A 2015 report published in the Biomed Research International Journal concluded that aloe vera improves the process of wound healing and other procedures related to the organ both clinically and experimentally. [9]

Aids in Digestion

Studies have shown that aloe vera juice can improve your digestive process and relieve constipation; compounds called anthraquinones to stimulate mucus production, increase intestinal water and increase intestinal peristalsis.

A 2010 report titled, Aloe vera: A Potential Herb and its Medicinal Importance, published in the Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research revealed that aloe juice has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent discomfort, bloating, cramping, and flatulence if consumed regularly. [10] [11]

Detoxifies the Body

Due to the high water content of aloe vera juice, it can help to keep you hydrated and stimulate urination. Additionally, this juice improves liver function, which relieves the body of excess toxins, fats, and salts. [12] [13]

Prevents Gut Irritation

The best environment for a gut is a balanced pH, but many people tend to have an overly acidic stomach.

A report published in the Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics Journal concludes that aloe vera has alkalizing properties, which makes it ideal for your stomach to operate normally and maintain a proper microflora balance. [14]

Prevents Heartburn

Aloe vera juice can directly stop acid from forming, which prevents acid reflux disease, and can also lower your chances of developing gastric ulcers. [15] [16]

Aloe Vera Juice Uses

You can have aloe vera juice on its own or use it in smoothies. Just add a tablespoon of it while making a fruit or vegetable smoothie to derive the benefits. If you want to use aloe juice for cosmetic reasons then you can use it as a moisturizer, as a makeup remover and even add it to natural face packs.

Side Effects of Aloe Vera Juice

Despite the many health benefits, there are some potential side effects to drinking aloe vera juice that must be taken into consideration, including its laxative effects, negative interactions with certain medications, skin inflammation, allergic reactions, complications with pregnancy, and possible effects on the heart.

  • Laxative – One of the active ingredients in aloe vera juice is a chemical called anthraquinone, which can have laxative effects on the body. While small amounts of aloe vera juice can help with digestion, pure aloe vera juice in large quantities can cause diarrhea. Furthermore, anthraquinone is carcinogenic in nature, so some commercial varieties of aloe vera juice offer low-anthraquinone varieties. [17]
  • Medications – Certain medications, like the potassium-losing diuretic medication furosemide, can negatively interact with the active ingredients in aloe vera juice and exacerbate potassium loss. Topically, aloe vera may
    increase the absorption of certain steroid creams. If you are on any prescribed medications, speak with your doctor before consuming aloe vera juice. [18]
  • Allergic Reactions – Some people have natural allergies to aloe vera juice or the chemicals it contains, which can result in irritation or swelling of the face, lips, and tongue. Discontinue its use immediately if these symptoms appear. [19]
  • Skin Irritation – Although the juice is consumed internally, it can manifest in the form of itchy, red or blotchy skin, particularly for those with a sensitive stomach.
  • Pregnancy – Research has shown that this juice has stimulant qualities, and can cause uterine contractions. Pregnant women are recommended to abstain from drinking aloe vera juice, as it can cause serious complications with pregnancy including miscarriage.
  • Cardiovascular Side Effects – Due to the stimulant properties, aloe vera can cause an excess of stress hormones in the body, namely adrenaline. For people who have experienced cardiovascular episodes in the past or are at high risk for heart problems, use this juice with caution.

FAQs

  • What is aloe vera juice good for?

One cup of hydrating aloe vera juice may help reduce the appearance of acne and diminish its frequency. It may also aid in reducing skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis. Moreover, aloe vera is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that shield your skin from harmful dust and particles.

 

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About the Author

John Staughton is a traveling writer, editor, publisher and photographer with English and Integrative Biology degrees from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana (USA). He co-founded the literary journal, Sheriff Nottingham, and now serves as the Content Director for Stain’d Arts, a non-profit based in Denver, Colorado. On a perpetual journey towards the idea of home, he uses words to educate, inspire, uplift and evolve.

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