Clinical Uses and Toxicity of Aloe vera: An Evidence-Based Comprehensive Retrospective Review (2007-2017)

Abstract

Background: Aloe vera (AV), mostly known as succulents, or the healing plant of the genus Aloe of Liliaceae family. It contains large range of vitamins, amino acids, antiseptic, antiinflammatory, and sulfur compounds to control and eliminate mold, bacteria, viruses; however, AV toxicity is most of the times described poorly among AV consumers. Aim of the Study: To report and highlight AV clinical uses and toxicity cases to compare and highlight its therapeutic as well toxic profile. Materials and Methods: AV cases were gathered from databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and E-Resource Portal of Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University using the keywords, i.e., AV case report, AV toxicity, hepatitis, clinical trials about AV, interactions, the current uses of AV, etc. Results: Ten cases met the eligibility criteria where the toxicities were mostly associated with the usage of AV except the intended use, i.e., to be administered topically or AV capsules ingestion or as a drinkable solutions. Major symptoms observed in these cases were related to hepatocytes inflammation (hepatitis), fatigue, nausea, vomiting, thyroid dysfunction, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea along with severe weight loss. These results were not associated with a specific age; however they were more predominant in female gender. Conclusion: AV should be taken within normal/specified dose range which can only be achieved through asking an herbal specialist, and in approved suitable dosage form which is topical.

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“…Patients' most common symptoms were nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dermatitis, weakness, and fatigue. However, symptoms disappeared upon cessation of the product Hepatitis, liver failure, acute serositis, hypothyroidism and jaundice 58 A female patient aged 68 years old presented with acute liver injury. This may be due to the ingestion of Aloe vera pills for the last several months.…”