Aloe vera (inner leaf)

Silver· human data

Inner-leaf gel taken for gut and skin comfort; the latex form is a harsh laxative to avoid.

Aloe vera inner-leaf gel is taken for digestive comfort (including reflux and IBS) and applied for skin; there is some preliminary human evidence for modest symptom relief in these areas.

A crucial distinction: the yellow latex just under the skin of the leaf is a potent stimulant laxative that can cause cramping and electrolyte loss and has safety concerns with prolonged use. Choose purified, decolourised inner-leaf products and avoid whole-leaf/latex preparations.

Sources

PubMed: aloe vera inner leaf gel gastrointestinal irritable bowel (research overview)

Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

Last reviewed: 22 July 2026