Use Medicinal Aloe Vera with Caution

Many beauty-conscious women particularly favor aloe vera—growing a few pots of lush green aloe at home not only beautifies the living space but also allows them to use freshly grown aloe for skincare anytime, achieving two benefits at once. Furthermore, as a natural health food, some restaurants have even placed aloe on their menus. In response to people’s strong affection for aloe vera, Professor Chang Zhangfu from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine warns that there are different types of aloe vera for edible versus medicinal use, and one must be careful before using it. Don’t treat aloe vera as a “cure-all” and use it however you wish.
The aloe vera suitable for medicinal purposes is mainly African Cape aloe and Curacao aloe, typically dried and used both internally and externally. For individuals experiencing bitter taste in mouth, bad breath, irritability, red urine, or constipation, aloe vera—a bitter-tasting, cold-natured herb—has laxative and liver-cooling effects, as well as anti-parasitic properties. According to TCM pharmacopeia guidelines, the recommended daily oral dose is 2–5 grams, with a maximum of 6 grams. Excessive intake may cause diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal discomforts, leading to adverse reactions.
Although many people notice a significant effect of aloe vera on constipation, it is important to note that it works best for heat-induced constipation (caused by internal heat), but for intestinal dryness (habitual constipation), excessive use will further deplete body fluids and worsen constipation.
Many people regard aloe vera as a “universal remedy”—for cuts, burns, scalds, sprains, or insect bites, simply cut off a piece of aloe and apply it to the wound, and the injury improves. Professor Chang explains that according to TCM, aloe vera kills skin parasites and also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, generally considered safe for use.
However, some people have very sensitive skin. Those who previously experienced dermatitis after using cosmetics or have allergic constitutions should first perform a patch test before applying aloe vera. Apply a small amount to the inner side of the earlobe or wrist and observe for 10 to 20 minutes. If the skin remains normal, it is safe to use externally. Otherwise, if large papules appear or itching occurs, wait a few days and repeat the test. If itching persists or red papules develop after external use, this condition is usually mild and not serious—stop using it and rinse with warm water. Do not scratch, as this may break the skin and cause new infections. In cases of severe allergic reactions, discontinue use immediately.
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DIY Aloe Vera Skincare Mask
Precondition for using fresh aloe vera on skin: Not recommended for allergy-prone individuals.
Starting from the outermost leaf of the aloe plant, cut off a small segment (length depending on personal need), trim off the small spines on both sides, split it open, and rub the cut surface gently on the skin. You’ll feel a slippery, sticky sensation. After a few minutes, the skin tightens. Then wash it off. Alternatively, crush the aloe and mix with honey and flour to make a homemade mask, applied once a week to achieve firmer, smoother skin.