Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Aloe, particularly Aloe vera latex (the yellow sap found just under the leaf skin), has a long history of use as a traditional remedy for constipation. The main active compounds responsible for its laxative effect are anthraquinone glycosides, such as aloin and emodin, which act as stimulant laxatives by increasing intestinal water content and stimulating peristalsis. This traditional use is well-documented in various cultures and historical medical texts, including those from Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

However, scientific evidence supporting the use of Aloe for constipation is limited, especially in children. Most clinical studies have focused on adult populations, and results suggest that Aloe latex can be effective as a short-term laxative. Importantly, the use of Aloe latex has raised significant safety concerns, including cramping, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and potential carcinogenicity with long-term use. Due to these safety issues, the U.S. FDA has banned the use of Aloe latex as an over-the-counter laxative.

In pediatric populations, Aloe is not generally recommended because of these risks and the lack of robust, child-specific studies. Safer and better-studied alternatives are available for treating constipation in children. In summary, Aloe is used primarily due to traditional practices rather than strong scientific validation, and caution is warranted, particularly for children.

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