Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
CSmall RCTs show modest improvement in IBS symptoms. Conflicting results; some studies show no benefit over placebo.
The Bottom Line
Small RCTs show modest improvement in IBS symptoms. Conflicting results; some studies show no benefit over placebo.
Key Study Findings
Population: patients with IBS (review of plant extracts including peppermint oil, Iberogast, curcumin)
Population: Patients with irritable bowel syndrome
Population: Adult IBS patients
Population: IBS patients
Population: IBS patients
Population: IBS patients
Key Statistics
3
Studies
250
Participants
Mixed
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 | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| 5 g/d | 4 weeks | Positive | 43 |
| None | -- | Positive | 160 |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| 500 mg | 2.0 weeks | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
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 Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
How much Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) should I take for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Are there side effects of Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel)?
How strong is the evidence for Aloe Vera (Inner Leaf Gel) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
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.