Although aloe vera is great for health and beauty, improper use can often have harmful effects. The possible side effects of using aloe vera are:
Skin allergy: Applying aloe vera directly to the skin can cause itching, red bumps, and swelling in some people. People with especially sensitive skin should use it only after doing a ‘patch test’.
Yellow liquid in aloe vera (Latex): Be careful not to mix the yellow liquid (aloin) that is found when cutting aloe vera. If ingested, it can cause severe stomach pain, diarrhea, and kidney problems.
Low blood sugar: People taking medication for diabetes should be especially careful when drinking aloe vera juice. This can cause a sudden decrease in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).
Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers: Drinking aloe vera juice during pregnancy may cause uterine contractions and other complications. Therefore, do not use it without a doctor’s advice.
Use before surgery: Since aloe vera can affect blood sugar, those scheduled for any type of surgery should stop using it at least two weeks before.
