Clinical applications of the use of Aloe vera and reports of toxicity

Abstract

Aloe vera is considered the most biologically active and commercialized species of the genus Aloe L. and has been used since long with therapeutic purposes, due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of active substances that are found in concentration both in the gel as in the skin leaves. This article aimed to review the use of the Aloe vera plant with therapeutic purposes, describing clinical applications and reports of toxicity on to the non topical use of the plant, on a critical review of articles on the subject, mostly published in indexed journals in databases SCIELO, BIREME and LILACS. The various clinical applications of the Aloe vera plant, such as decreased levels of blood sugar and cholesterol, anti-inflammatory, healing agent, anticancer, antimicrobial, among many others were observed. Some research has shown some undesirable effects on the usage of the plant in large doses and depending on the form of administration. However, in acceptable doses, the numerous benefits are scientifically proven in different clinical conditions. The national organization (Anvisa) backs the use of products based on Aloe vera, both as a healing agent and as drinks’ basis. Therefore, health professionals may make rational use of these products in order to obtain the desired benefits.