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Aloe vera is a perennial succulent plant belonging to the Asphodelaceae family, scientifically known as Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. or Aloe barbadensis Miller. It should not be confused with other similar species like Agave americana, mistakenly called "American aloe."
The plant is distinguished by its shrub-like form that can reach up to a meter in height. The leaves, arranged in a rosette, are fleshy and long-lanceolate, measuring 40-60 cm in length. They have a very thick cuticle and spines only along the edges. From the center of the plant, a flowering stalk develops up to 90 cm high, bearing a raceme inflorescence with flowers varying in color from yellow to red.
Originally from the Arabian Peninsula and Sudan, aloe vera is now cultivated in numerous regions of the world with hot and dry climates. The main production areas are in Africa, Australia, Central and South America, with significant cultivation in the Dominican Republic and Mexico. In Europe, cultivation is mainly found in Spain, Italy, and Greece.
The use of aloe vera juice dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, as evidenced by clay tablets from 2000 B.C. The Egyptians considered it the "plant of immortality," using it in embalming rituals and as a healing remedy. The modern breakthrough in the use of aloe came in 1959 when pharmacist Bill Coats developed a process to stabilize the pulp, paving the way for its large-scale commercialization.
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Aloe vera is a plant rich in active ingredients that can be grouped into three main categories of components, each with specific characteristics and properties:
This rich chemical composition is the basis of the multiple beneficial properties of aloe vera juice and explains its widespread use in both therapeutic and cosmetic fields.
From aloe vera, two main types of preparations are derived: the juice (or latex) and the gel, both obtained from the plant's leaves but with very different characteristics and compositions.
The juice is obtained through a process of percolation or extraction from the leaves, or simply by letting the latex drip from the base of the cut leaf. This liquid can then be concentrated in two ways: by exposure to air, obtaining the so-called "hepatic aloe," or by boiling, producing "shiny aloe." The juice is particularly rich in antraquinones, among which aloe-emodin and the antraquinone glycosides aloin A (barbaloin) and aloin B (isobarbaloin) stand out, along with various flavonoids.
Aloe vera gel is extracted from the fleshy central part (parenchyma) of the leaves through a more complex process. The process begins with the removal of the outer part of the leaf, thus eliminating the component rich in antraquinones. Subsequently, the inner pulp is squeezed to extract the gel, which must be immediately stabilized due to its particularly sensitive nature to oxidation.
The final product is characterized by a rich and varied composition that includes water, mucilages, polysaccharides, lecithins, amino acids, enzymes, vitamins (A, C, E, B group), minerals (iron, potassium, sodium, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus), fatty acids, plant sterols, and saponins.
There is also the possibility of obtaining a whole leaf extract through maceration or squeezing, which can be further purified with activated charcoal to obtain a decolorized extract, free of undesirable compounds but with a slightly lower mucilage content compared to pure gel.
The properties of aloe vera are numerous and varied, although some are still under study and require further scientific confirmation. This ancient plant presents a wide range of beneficial actions, particularly through its gel, which is used both externally and internally:
It is important to note that while some of these properties are well-documented, others still require further scientific investigation to be fully validated. Additionally, the effectiveness of aloe vera can vary significantly depending on the type of preparation used and its quality.
The benefits of aloe vera are numerous and scientifically documented, thanks to the synergy of its many active ingredients. This ancient plant offers valuable support for the body's health in various aspects:
The effectiveness of these benefits is supported by numerous clinical studies, particularly regarding the laxative properties of preparations based on hydroxyanthracene derivatives and the protective and regenerative effects of the gel.
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Aloe vera is used in numerous fields thanks to its versatility and beneficial properties. Its two main derivatives - juice and gel - offer different usage methods and specific advantages.
Aloe vera juice is primarily used internally to support the body's well-being. It is recommended to take 50 ml, once or twice a day, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach or in the evening before bed.
It can be consumed pure or diluted in water or other beverages. In cases of occasional constipation (discover other laxative teas), the juice can be used as a mild natural laxative, but only for short periods not exceeding 10 days and in the minimum effective doses. It is essential to store the product in the refrigerator once opened and consume it within 30 days.
Aloe vera gel finds its best expression in topical use for treating various skin issues. It is particularly effective for:
In the cosmetic field, the gel is incorporated into numerous formulations such as shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, sunscreens, and after-sun products, leveraging its emollient and regenerating properties. To maximize the effectiveness of treatments, it is essential to choose high-quality products with a high percentage of pure aloe vera gel.
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Aloe vera is now a widely used ingredient in numerous commercial products, thanks to the versatility of its preparations and its many beneficial properties. Aloe vera juice and gel are mainly found in three categories of products:
Supplements based on aloe vera are available in various forms: capsules, tablets, drinkable juices, and gels. These products take advantage of the plant's immunomodulating and digestive properties, offering support for the overall well-being of the body. Many formulations combine aloe with other medicinal plants to enhance its purifying and digestive effectiveness.
In the cosmetic sector, aloe vera gel is a fundamental ingredient in:
Aloe vera is also present in specific medical devices, such as:
The presence of aloe vera in these products is often indicated as "Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice" or "Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract" in the ingredient lists, with varying percentages depending on the intended use and desired effect.
Although aloe vera is generally considered safe, it is important to be aware of its potential contraindications and side effects for conscious and safe use. Aloe gel is usually well tolerated in topical use, but preparations containing the juice may present some risks, especially if taken for prolonged periods.
The most common side effects include gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramps, mainly due to the presence of anthraquinone glycosides. Continuous use may cause electrolyte imbalances, with particular attention to potassium loss, especially in those taking cardioactive or diuretic medications.
A particularly relevant aspect concerns the recent regulations by the regulatory authorities. In 2021, the European Union introduced significant restrictions on the use of certain aloe vera derivatives in dietary supplements. This decision was made following evaluations by EFSA, which highlighted potential genotoxic risks associated with hydroxyanthracene derivatives. Consequently, only aloe vera supplements with extremely low or undetectable levels of these compounds are now authorized.
The contraindications for the use of aloe vera particularly concern:
It is crucial to adhere to the recommended doses and avoid prolonged use of preparations containing anthraquinones, which could cause dependency and impair natural intestinal function. In case of adverse reactions or doubts, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use.
