Aloe Vera
Aloe is a succulent plant widely used in alternative medicine. For diabetes and digestive issues, the green part of the inner leaf can be made into a juice or dried and taken orally for digestive health. The clear gel from the Aloe plant can also be used on the skin as an ointment to treat wounds and burns.
Health Benefits:
Diet/Nutrition
Health Condition:
Type 2 Diabetes
Method of Use:
Drink
Topical Application
Alternative Names:
Aloe barbadensis (Xanthorrhoececae)
Cultural Narrative
One community member said that when she was a child, if she ate too much or if she ate very spicy food and experienced stomach pain, her mother would give her aloe vera orally to calm her stomach. Another community member describes the use of savila (aloe vera) in smoothies by her father to support blood sugar regulation in type 2 diabetes. The inner section of the green leaf is typically cut out and can be used in these ways.
While evidence is limited, current literature suggests a possible effect on glycemic control in pre- and type 2 diabetes.
Content here is for informational purposes only. As with all medicines, please consult with your physician before use.