Aloe vera
Also called: Aloe barbadensis
A succulent whose clear leaf gel is applied to the skin to soothe minor burns and sunburn. Aloe latex, the yellow layer under the leaf skin, is a harsh laxative when swallowed and isn't recommended.
Commonly used for
- Sunburn and minor burns (gel on the skin)
- Dry or irritated skin
- Minor scrapes
- Heartburn or an irritated gut (purified inner leaf juice, limited evidence)
Found naturally in
- Gel from the inner leaf of the aloe plant
Label red flags
- Oral products that don't say 'decolorized' or 'aloin removed'
- 'Aloe gel' that lists alcohol, fragrance, or dyes high on the ingredient list
Check with a provider
- Don't take aloe latex or whole leaf aloe by mouth. It can cause cramping, diarrhea, and low potassium.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: avoid aloe by mouth
- Taking diuretics, digoxin, or diabetes medicine (oral aloe may lower potassium and blood sugar)
- Allergy to garlic, onions, or tulips, which are related plants
Supplements that contain it
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Skin
Your skin is your largest organ and a major immune barrier. Rashes, patches, and color changes are often the first visible signs of an autoimmune condition.
Digestive tract
Your stomach and intestines absorb nutrients and hold most of your body's immune tissue, which makes the gut a common target in autoimmune disease.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.