Consuming Aloe Vera Juice during Pregnancy

Have you been consuming aloe vera juice for a long time and planning to continue this now that you are pregnant? Hold on; the topic of consuming aloe vera juice during pregnancy is not getting good verdicts, and we’ll tell you why. But first, for those who don’t know, aloe vera is popularly used in skin creams and other beauty products because of its many health benefits. People have used the gel from the aloe vera plant for thousands of years for medicine, skin softening, and treating maladies like constipation, among others. Their leaves contain an inner and outer gel along with a sticky residue called latex from under the leaf’s crust. Aloe vera can be grown in the house, and the inner gel can be juiced in a blender for consumption. So what’s the final verdict on the use of aloe vera in pregnancy?

Several experts and studies suggest avoiding aloe vera’s oral consumption during pregnancy as there is no scientific evidence of its successful usage in pregnant women. However, if you have been consuming it before pregnancy and want to continue it during pregnancy in small amounts, we suggest you consult your doctor before the intake of aloe during pregnancy.

Common Uses of Aloe Vera

• Aloe vera works effectively in treating skin problems such as acne. Its topical application is also effective against sunburns, itchy skin, and pregnancy stretch marks.
• With strong anti-bacterial properties, aloe vera is useful in treating some infections of the skin. such as eczema and psoriasis.
• Aloe vera also has excellent laxative properties that ease bowel movements in times of constipation.
• The extracts from this plant are very useful in treating sensitive and dry skin to soften it.
• It is also effective in controlling blood sugar levels in patients who have type 2 diabetes.
• The cooling effect of aloe vera makes it useful in treating heartburn and peptic ulcers.
• The nutritional value and antibiotic properties of aloe vera make it an effective immunity booster for the body. It also lowers fever and fights viruses.

Benefits of Aloe Vera During Pregnancy

It is okay to use aloe vera externally during pregnancy, as it is not known to cause any concern on the skin if applied externally. Here are some uses of aloe vera on the skin during pregnancy:

1. Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and cooling benefits. It can be applied topically on light burns, sunburns, insect bites, and stings.
2.  Aloe vera gel during pregnancy is effective as a natural moisturiser for dry and itchy skin. Applying it regularly keeps the skin soft and supple and reduces dermatitis.
3. Since aloe vera is abundant in vitamin C and E and beta-carotene, it works great as an anti-ageing and antimicrobial substitute by decreasing the appearance of fine wrinkles.
4. You can also use this natural wonder to reduce your acne and infections. Just rub the juice of aloe vera on the areas where you have irritation or acne.
5. Thanks to the photoprotective properties in aloe vera’s juice, it stimulates cell regeneration and hair growth.

It is recommended to use aloe vera topically only during pregnancy.

Is It Safe to Drink Aloe Vera Juice During Pregnancy?

The consensus in the medical community is that women should exercise caution before drinking aloe vera juice during pregnancy. Certain compounds present in the plant can be harmful to the mother and the baby if taken improperly. Aloe vera is known to increase the risk of uterine contractions, which can be dangerous during pregnancy. Aloe vera juice also affects the blood glucose level by lowering it. This could increase the chances of lightheadedness and loss of balance.

The Aloe latex found in the plant is a powerful laxative and can create an electrolyte imbalance in the intestines. Breastfeeding mothers should also be cautious, as these compounds pass through breast milk and may severely upset the baby’s immature digestive system. Also, Aloe vera contains anthraquinones, a strong purgative often used as a laxative. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid taking it internally unless their doctor or health care provider recommends drinking aloe vera juice. Otherwise, it is better to stay away from it.

The Risk Associated With the Consumption of Aloe Vera

1. Aloe latex is a powerful laxative, and the intake of significant amounts of whole-leaf aloe juice can lead to painful abdominal cramps and diarrhoea. Its latex is also known to cause kidney damage and bloody diarrhoea, and it can severely upset the electrolyte balance. This can lead to unusual heart rhythms, muscle weakness and uterine contractions, which can be highly dangerous to pregnant women.
2. An increase in the risk of colorectal cancers has been found in those who use aloe vera for over a year. Other reports also indicate liver inflammation with the intake of high doses of Aloe, leading to digestive disorders & extreme acidity. It can also suppress appetite.
3. With women who have gestational diabetes, aloe vera juice side effects during pregnancy include improper regulation of blood glucose levels. Since the juice reduces glucose levels, it can interfere with existing methods of blood glucose regulation and can also lead to hypoglycemia.
4. Breastfeeding women should be cautious, as some of the compounds get transmitted to infants. Its latex is known to cause diarrhoea and vomiting in infants. As the safety of aloe on infants is mostly unknown, it’s best that breastfeeding mothers avoid it.
5. People who are allergic to plants belonging to the Liliaceae, the lily family, tend to be allergic to aloe vera. This family includes onions, garlic, lilies, tulips, and hyacinths. Allergic reactions can include difficulty breathing, swollen skin, itchy skin with rashes, and tightness in the chest and throat. An allergic reaction triggered by Aloe should be considered a medical emergency and treated immediately.

Does It Cause Miscarriage?

While there’s limited information on aloe vera juice and pregnancy, there is evidence of the risks of aloe latex during this crucial time. Aloe latex, extracted from the plant’s leaves, is considered a cathartic agent and is often used as a laxative.

As per the Journal of Environmental Science and Health, cathartic agents can trigger uterine contractions, which may increase the risk of early labour or miscarriage during pregnancy. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid consuming aloe latex while pregnant in any form.

If you’ve already consumed a small amount of aloe juice or a beverage containing aloe latex without knowing, it’s unlikely to be harmful if consumed in small amounts. However, it’s essential to stay vigilant for any unusual symptoms and consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you have concerns. Your well-being and peace of mind are top priorities.

Safety Tips to Keep in Mind While Using Aloe Vera in Pregnancy

Certainly, you need to be aware of some important safety measures when planning to use aloe vera in pregnancy in any form. Here are some you should not miss:

• If you are planning to use aloe vera topically or otherwise, make sure to consult with your doctor first.
• Always use fresh aloe vera in pregnancy. You can dice the leaves into small pieces to store them in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
• If you are allergic to onions, garlic, or tulips, make sure to avoid aloe vera, too.
• If you have accidentally consumed aloe vera, don’t panic. Look for any sensitivity in your body, any difference, or adverse reactions and consult your doctor if you find one.

FAQs

1. Can aloe vera induce labour?

There are chances that aloe vera can induce labour if consumed in significant amounts, as the latex in it causes uterine contractions.

2. Can aloe vera help you get pregnant?

There is no evidence that suggests aloe vera can help in conceiving, but there is evidence of the effects of aloe latex on uterine contractions, which are not good for pregnancy. However, to reap its general benefits, you may consume it in moderation outside of pregnancy.

3. Is it safe to use aloe vera on skin when you are pregnant?

Aloe vera has great hydrating properties that are good for the skin’s health. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties are great for tackling issues like hyperpigmentation.

4. Can you use aloe vera for stretch marks in pregnancy?

No such evidence exists that supports the efficacy and safety of aloe vera for stretch mark reduction in pregnancy. Since this plant has natural sunscreen properties, it can be tried for stretch marks. We recommend consulting a doctor before using this natural remedy.

5. Can aloe vera help with constipation and pregnancy melasma?

Though aloe vera has hydrating and soothing properties, it is unlikely for it to treat melasma since it is a hormonal condition.

As with constipation, it is better to avoid aloe vera during pregnancy because it has laxative properties. In case it helps with constipation too much, it could jeopardise your pregnancy rather than help it.

Now that you know whether aloe vera juice can be consumed during pregnancy. You should find the information given above useful to prepare your questions before consulting your doctor. Traditionally, aloe vera is considered a medicinal plant. However, it may not show the same results during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Therefore, unless it is recommended by your doctor, it is safer to avoid the consumption of aloe vera during pregnancy.

References:

1. Surjushe. A, Vasani. R, Saple. D. G; Aloe vera: a short review. Indian J Dermatol; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/; 2008

2. Kumari. BN. Dr & Sharmila. M. Dr; Aloe vera its medicinal uses: A review; International Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences; https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.735.727&rep=rep1&type=pdf; 2015

3. Poulson. B, Horowitz. D, Trevino. H; Aloe; Adult Health Library – UC San Diego Health; https://myhealth.ucsd.edu/library/diseasesconditions/adult/Pregnancy/19,Aloe

4. T. Reynolds & A.C. Dweck; Aloe vera leaf gel: a review update; Journal of Ethnopharmacology; https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.477.499&rep=rep1&type=pdf; May 1999

5. K. P. Sampath Kumar, Bhowmik. D; et al.; Aloe vera : A Potential Herb and its Medicinal Importance; Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research; https://naturalingredient.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/J.-Chem.-Pharm.-Res.2010-21-21-29.pdf; 2010

6. Ali. SA, Galgut. JM, Choudhary. RK; On the novel action of melanolysis by a leaf extract of Aloe vera and its active ingredient aloin, potent skin depigmenting agents; Planta Med; PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22495441/

7. Guo. X, Mei. N; Aloe vera: A review of toxicity and adverse clinical effects; J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev.; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6349368/; April 2016

8. The Benefits of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice; Cleveland Clinic; https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-aloe-vera-drink/; April 2022

9. Aloe; University of Rochester Medical Center Rochester; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=19&contentid=Aloe

10. Aloe Vera; NIH; https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aloe-vera

Our Editorial Policy

Parenting is a huge responsibility, for you as a caregiver, but also for us as a parenting content platform. We understand that and take our responsibility of creating credible content seriously. FirstCry Parenting articles are written and published only after extensive research using factually sound references to deliver quality content that is accurate, validated by experts, and completely reliable. To understand how we go about creating content that is credible, read our editorial policy here.