Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) for Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
DSingle RCT showed aloe vera gel improved UC symptoms vs placebo. Very limited evidence; not replicated.
The Bottom Line
Single RCT showed aloe vera gel improved UC symptoms vs placebo. Very limited evidence; not replicated.
Key Study Findings
Population: Review of natural therapies for IBD
Population: Mice (DSS-induced colitis model)
Population: Adult male Wistar rats with acetic acid-induced UC
Population: Ulcerative colitis patients using CAM
Population: None
Population: Animal/cell wound healing models
Key Statistics
1
Studies
44
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 100-200 mL aloe vera inner leaf gel/juice per day, or 300-500 mg capsule
- ibssupport:
- 100 mL twice daily for 1-3 months
- constipation:
- 100-300 mg aloe latex (short-term only, maximum 1-2 weeks)
Upper limit: No established UL for inner leaf gel; aloe latex (anthraquinones) should be limited to 1-2 weeks
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| 272 µg/ | 1.0 weeks | Positive | -- |
| 20, 40, or 60 mg/kg b.wt. | 2 weeks | Positive | 36 |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| 2 g | 3 weeks | Positive | -- |
Best taken: Before meals; aloe latex should only be used short-term for constipation
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Diarrhea and abdominal cramps (especially with aloe latex/whole leaf products)
- ⚠ Electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia) with chronic laxative use
- ⚠ Potential hepatotoxicity with long-term whole leaf consumption (rare)
- ⚠ Allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals
Known Interactions
- ● Digoxin (hypokalemia from laxative use may increase digoxin toxicity)
- ● Diuretics (additive potassium loss with aloe latex)
- ● Diabetes medications (aloe may lower blood sugar; monitor glucose)
- ● Stimulant laxatives (additive laxative effect; avoid combining)
- ● Anticoagulants (theoretical interaction due to platelet effects)
Tolerable upper intake: No established UL for inner leaf gel; aloe latex (anthraquinones) should be limited to 1-2 weeks
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) help with Ulcerative Colitis (UC)?
How much Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) should I take for Ulcerative Colitis (UC)?
Are there side effects of Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel)?
How strong is the evidence for Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC)?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.