Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant whose thick leaves contain a clear gel and a bitter yellow latex.
Also listed as Aloe, Aloe Barbadensis
Topical gel has a promising burn-healing signal
A 2024 review included nine randomized trials, with six contributing healing-time data. Aloe preparations shortened healing by an average of about 3.8 days compared with other topical treatments in the pooled analysis. Pain relief and infection risk did not differ clearly between groups. The findings concern treatment of burns, particularly second-degree burns, rather than every wound or cosmetic aloe product. 1
What about acne, blood sugar and digestion?
NCCIH describes small studies suggesting benefits for acne when topical gel is added to other treatments, and preliminary blood-sugar findings from oral preparations in people with diabetes. It considers the evidence too limited to establish benefit for irritable bowel syndrome or ulcerative colitis. These remain different research questions, with different preparations and outcomes. 2
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Longevity1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Gut Health3 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Immune Support1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Essential Health1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Hair & Skin2 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Other effects2 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Sources
- Effects of Aloe vera on Burn Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Journal of Burn Care & Research, 2024
- Aloe Vera NCCIH