Aloe vera is widely recognized as a soothing topical remedy for sunburns and minor skin abrasions. This clear, jelly-like substance has a long history of use for external healing, leading many to wonder about its safety when applied inside the mouth or swallowed. The answer is yes, but it depends entirely on the specific preparation of the product. Understanding the difference between the various components of the aloe leaf is necessary before attempting any internal use.
Distinguishing Safe Aloe Preparations for Oral Use
The aloe vera leaf has two distinct parts: the clear inner leaf fillet (gel) and the yellow sap, or latex, found beneath the outer rind. The inner gel is primarily water and polysaccharides like acemannan. This inner gel is the safe part for consumption and offers anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties.
The yellow latex contains high concentrations of aloin, a powerful anthraquinone. Aloin is intensely bitter and acts as a strong stimulant laxative, leading to severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea if ingested. Consuming the whole, unprocessed aloe leaf or any product containing the latex is strongly discouraged due to its harsh effects and potential toxicity.
Commercial aloe products intended for oral use must undergo a purification process called decolorization. This process uses a carbon filter to remove the aloin content to safe levels. The International Aloe Science Council (IASC) sets a standard that oral products should contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of aloin. Always look for products specifically labeled as “purified inner-leaf gel” or “aloin-free” to ensure you are avoiding the laxative components.
Specific Uses for Oral Health
When properly purified, aloe vera gel is used topically within the oral cavity to manage several common conditions. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help to soothe irritated tissues. Aloe vera mouthwashes, for instance, have been studied for their ability to reduce plaque and gingivitis (gum inflammation) when used alongside regular brushing and flossing.
Applying purified gel directly onto canker sores (aphthous ulcers) can provide a soothing effect and may accelerate healing. The gel’s regenerative compounds promote tissue repair, helping the painful lesions resolve more quickly. The gel can also alleviate discomfort associated with other inflammatory oral conditions, such as oral lichen planus.
Purified aloe gel is incorporated into some dental products to manage gum sensitivity and bleeding. The gel helps create a protective barrier over the mucosal lining while offering a mild antibacterial effect against microorganisms that contribute to periodontal disease. Using an aloe-based product after minor dental procedures can also assist in comforting and healing the irritated surgical site.
Safety Precautions and Potential Side Effects
While purified aloe vera gel is generally safe for short-term oral use, certain precautions should be considered. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Liliaceae family (including garlic, onions, and tulips) may experience an allergic reaction to aloe vera, manifesting as burning, itching, or a localized rash inside the mouth.
People with diabetes should use caution when ingesting aloe vera, as evidence suggests it may have blood sugar-lowering effects. Combining aloe with diabetes medication could increase the risk of developing hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar). Additionally, consuming aloe may interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of certain medications, including diuretics and blood thinners.
It is important to avoid consuming any unpurified whole-leaf extract or raw latex, as this can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and electrolyte imbalance from excessive diarrhea. Oral use of unpurified aloe is strongly discouraged for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under the age of 12. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended before starting any regimen of orally consumed aloe vera.