Evidence supporting the use of: Aloe
For the health condition: Itching (rectal)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Aloe, particularly Aloe vera, has a longstanding traditional use for soothing skin irritation, including itching and inflammation. Its application to rectal itching (pruritus ani) is derived mainly from its broader use in treating minor burns, wounds, and inflammatory skin conditions. Traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and folk remedies have recommended topical Aloe gel for various types of itching, including those affecting sensitive areas like the anus. The gel is reputed for its cooling, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may provide symptomatic relief when applied to irritated skin. However, clinical studies specifically evaluating Aloe vera for rectal itching are limited. Most available evidence comes from studies on Aloe’s effects on general skin irritation or its use in hemorrhoids, where some benefit in reducing discomfort and inflammation has been observed. Despite its popularity, there is little direct scientific validation for Aloe's use in rectal itching, and recommendations are largely extrapolated from its effectiveness in related conditions. While Aloe is generally considered safe for topical use, especially in its pure gel form, allergic reactions can occur in some individuals. Further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety specifically for pruritus ani.
Other ingredients used for Itching (rectal)
aloe verabisabolol
chamomile
turmeric
marshmallow
slippery elm bark
zinc
white oak
Allantoin
Baphicacanthus cusia
Calendula
Sandalwood
Other health conditions supported by Aloe
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Acid Indigestion
Acne
Afterbirth Pain
Age Spots
Aging (prevention)
Amenorrhea
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Arthritis
Asthma
Athlete's Foot
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Blisters
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Carbuncles
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)
Cholesterol (high)
Cold Sores
Colds (antiviral)
Colitis
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Cuts
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diaper Rash
Digestion (poor)
Eczema
Eye Infections
Fungal Infections
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Hemorrhoids
Herpes
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Injuries
Itching
Itching (rectal)
Jaundice (adults)
Lesions
Oral Surgery
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin (infections)
Skin Care (general)
Sore Throat
Staph Infections
Sunburn
Surgery (healing from)
Ulcerations (external)
Ulcers