Aloe to calm the skin and the stomach

By the time aloe became a popular laxative in 19th century America, the plant had been used in other parts of the world for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians used it to treat wounds and skin infections, ancient Greeks prescribed it for ulcers and hair loss, and healers in 6th century India gave it to patients suffering from intestinal worms.

Uses: Aloe gel taken from the center of the plant’s thick leaves is used to soothe pain and swelling from minor cuts, scrapes and burns. It also is used to treat psoriasis and frostbite. Aloe latex, formed from the ridged layer just below the plant’s outer layer, is sometimes taken for constipation and diabetes.

Dose: The laxative dose is 50 to 200 milligrams of aloe latex in capsules or 1 to 8 ounces of aloe latex juice a day. Aloe gel can be applied to skin wounds and irritations multiple times a day.

Precautions: Taken orally, aloe latex can cause cramping and diarrhea. Because its laxative effects are so strong, it is not recommended for people with gastrointestinal or kidney disease, pregnant women or nursing mothers. Long-term use can cause diarrhea, weakness and weight loss, and doses of a gram or more a day for several days can be lethal. Topical aloe causes skin irritation in people allergic to the plant’s gel. It may slow the healing of deep cuts or wounds.

Research: Aloe has proved effective for treating minor skin conditions and wounds. Current studies are evaluating its effect on diabetes and psoriasis.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your health-care provider for advice on selecting a brand.

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-- Elena Conis