Aloe Vera is currently grown commercially mainly in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, USA, in the 
Philippines, the Dominican Republic, South Africa, Spain and in Australia. There are several Aloe 
companies marketing a variety of Aloe compounds, some excellent and some I believe are absolutely useless. For any Aloe Vera drink to stand any chance of doing some good, I feel it must contain the 
parenchymatous gel and some sap. Therefore, it must possess a yellow or orange colour due to the sap, 
and taste bitter. If a product is clear, looks like water and tastes like water, then it probably is water! There is a regulatory body based in the USA called the International Aloe Science Council and, amongst 
other things, it evaluates the quality of Aloe products. If such products, according to several criteria, reach 
a standard they are accredited with the IASC seal of approval, as below. This mark of quality can then appear on the container and I suggest that any Aloe product whose company does not display this seal of 
approval rather than just claiming to have it, has to be suspect. I have listed below the various types of Aloe Vera products that may appear on the market, as defined by the IASC: 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 Aloe Vera gel/juice freeze dried - Aloe Vera gel/juice that has been freeze dried with or without a 
matrix. Reconstituted Aloe Vera gel/juice freeze dried - Aloe Vera gel/juice freeze dried to which an 
appropriate amount of water is added to achieve a concentration that is equivalent to 100 per cent Aloe 
Vera gel/juice as defined. Aloe Vera concentrate - Aloe Vera gel/juice from which natural water has been mechanically remove
d 
to a desired level. Reconstituted Aloe Vera gel/juice - Aloe Vera concentrate to which an appropriate amount of water is added to achieve a concentration that is equivalent to 100 per cent Aloe Vera as defined. Aloe Vera beverage - An ingestible product containing a minimum of 50 per cent Aloe Vera juice as 
defined by the reporting procedure adopted by the IASC. Aloe Vera drink - An ingestible product containing more than 10 per cent of Aloe Vera juice as 
defined by the reporting procedure adopted by the IASC. Aloe Vera pulp - The parenchymal tissue and fibre derived from raw Aloe Vera gel/juice. Aloe Vera oil - The lipid (fatty) portion obtained from the rind of the leaves of Aloe Barbadensis 
Miller by various solvent extract processes. Aloe USP - The dried latex of the leaves of Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera Linne), known in 
commerce as Curacao Aloe or Aloe Ferox Miller and hybrids of this species with Aloe Africana 
Miller and Aloe Spicata Baker known in commerce as Cape Aloe (Lilaceae). Aloe Vera latex - The bitter yellow liquid contained in the pericyclic tubules of the rind of Aloe 
Barbadensis Miller including the rind and internal portions of the plant. Cold stabilised Aloe Vera gel, which is my preferred preparation, is about 97 per cent pure and the nearest 
thing that one can get to the natural raw gel extracted from the plant. As I have said, it is extremely safe 
and non-toxic, although when people first start to take the gel it often stirs them up and they may experience a change in bowel habit for a few days, together with slight abdominal discomfort, but this 
generally soon passes. Some people refer to this initial phase as one of detoxification but I think this is a 
misnomer. There is also a method of heat stabilisation, or pasteurisation, but this destroys some of the 
nutrients and enzymes so I believe we must aim to find the nearest thing to the natural, raw gel. Please note that a product containing only 15 per cent Aloe Vera gel by volume can legally be called 100 
per cent Aloe Vera juice. Currently, the main debate centres on the relative benefits of Aloe Vera gel versus whole leaf Aloe. In the production of whole leaf Aloe products, the whole plant is harvested, rather than individual leaves, 
and it is crushed. Solid matter, including the pulverised rind is separated and the resultant fluid is filtered  
 The case for Aloin (Barbaloin) and against filtration 
 
Activated carbon will attract and hold any molecules that have an electrical charge created by a double 
bond of the carbon in the molecule to other atoms. Molecules with an outside double bond are strongl y 
"adsorbed" by carbon filters which means that Aloin and Aloe-emodin both containing such bonds are 
effectively trapped and removed by them. However, a large number of beneficial components in Aloe also 
contain outside double bonds and will be therefore filtered out. Among these are the glycoproteins 
(enzymes), proteins, mineral salts, all essential amino acids, Vitamins 131, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, 
carotene, various fatty acids and salicylic acid. Carbon filters also have an affinity for carbon itsel f 
therefore they may attract organic molecules regardless of their polarity. Polysaccharides are not remove d 
by carbon filtration but many important elements are either completely taken out or their amounts are 
considerably reduced. Why have aloin in a product anyway? When it has been suggested that it may be carcinogenic and produce 
abortions when taken orally, or kill fibroblasts when applied topically. As with many substances, Parcelsus (1500 AD) knew that "the poison is in the dose". Whereas large amounts of aloin or other anthraquinones especially those with an amino or nitro group in them may prove 
harmful over a prolonged period of time; although there is no real evidence to support this, 
 
I believe that in small quantities aloin is actually a beneficial component of Aloe drinks. Aloin by the way, 
possesses hydroxyl groups, rather than the suspect nitro or amino groups. Many, if not most workers in the field now believe that a small amount of aloin <50 ppm in a produc
t 
improves the absorption of the other Aloe elements as well as being an important anti-microbial agen t 
enabling Aloe to regulate the gut flora. Aloin is broken down eventually to form salicylates which are anti-
inflammatory. It may also act as a trigger to the polysaccharides, working synergistically with them to 
enhance their various effects. In topical products aloin and the other anthraquinone derivatives are antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory an d 
also have anti-tyrosinase action, blocking melanin formation. They can also block ultraviolet light when 
applied topically. through carbon filters to remove the excess anthraquinones and, in some cases, all of them. It is often then 
concentrated because a smaller number of plants is required for a given amount of product and there is 
less weight, due to its concentration, so reducing transport costs. The final product is cheaper at retail. It is 
often suggested that it is better because it contains more polysaccharides (coming from the inner rind) 
than the gel/sap only products, but I believe there are flaws in this argument and I would ask the 
following questions:  
Polysaccharides are sugars that have formed a bond with water. What happens to them when water is 
removed during the concentration process? Do they possess the same biochemical qualities when 
reconstituted? Some manufacturers argue that by including the amount of polysaccharides in their 
products they must therefore be more powerful. I do not believe this is to be so because the digestive tract, due to the special way that polysaccharides are absorbed through the pinocytosis, can only handle so 
much, Once absorbed the body can also only utilise so much. The optimum concentration for absorption 
is that found in the natural gel at circa 1000 - 1200 mg/litre. When the fluid is passed through the fine carbon filters during the manufacturing process, could unknown 
and unidentified important elements be filtered out as well? As there is no real evidence for the time being, to support whole leaf Aloe being superior to 100 per cent 
stabilised Aloe Vera gel, I will go for this one. I believe that many of the considerations that go into 
making the whole leaf Aloe are really commercial, to get a cheaper product with a greater profit margin 
into the market place, The choice is yours. ALOE IN THE FUTURE 
 
Since earliest time, Aloe Vera has occupied a prominent place in medicinal folklore of various cultures. In 
small doses it was used as a general tonic and in large doses as a purgative. It was also used to treat 
indigestion, to get rid of intestinal parasites and worms. It was favoured as an insecticide and as an 
antiseptic and, most importantly, as away of healing ulcerated, burnt, infected, lacerated and generally 
damaged skin whether from internal or external causes. The use of Aloe Vera as a beauty aid is rapidly increasing. But why is it not being prescribed more by 
doctors? Perhaps they are not aware of it, and if that is the case I hope this book will go some way to 
promoting thought and further enquiry amongst my colleagues. The main reason has to be the lack of hard evidence, i.e., evidence that is accepted by the body of the 
profession, be they GPs or specialists - the randomised double-blind clinical trial. This kind of clinical 
trial is the definitive way of assessing whether a new treatment actually works and is superior to other 
treatments. It involves the selected patients to be divided into two groups. One group receives only a 
placebo or another form of treatment and the other group receives the treatment under test. It is essential 
that neither the patient nor the doctor knows which treatment is being prescribed so there can be no bias. Only when the trial is completed are the different treatments revealed and the results analysed. Until recently the documented trials were, regrettably, not of the quality and precision that would win 
over the sceptical, scientifically orientated doctor, especially with the current emphasis of evidence based 
medicine. The overwhelming anecdotal evidence has largely been ignored by regular practitioners, but 
fortunately there are some who have given it a try. I know of a handful of doctors, both in the National Health Service and private sector who now regularly use Aloe in their practices. One small but significant trial was carried out in 1985, by Dr Jeffrey Bland, a nutritionist of the Linus 
Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine in California. He studied the effect of Aloe Vera on the 
gastrointestinal function in normal humans and involved ten volunteers, five of each sex. They changed nothing in their lifestyle but consumed two ounces of Aloe Vera juice three times a day for seven 
consecutive days. Before entering the study the participants fasted overnight so that base line gastric secretion could be 
measured by a pH (level of acidity) sensitive capsule. After their gastric pH was measured, morning stool and urine samples were collected. The object of the experiment was to see if Aloe had any effects on 
these two functions. Dr Bland looked at urinary indican, which reflects the bowel bacterial conversion of 
the amino acid tryptophan and therefore possible improved protein digestion and absorption after Aloe 
Vera treatment. He also looked at stool specific gravity, gastric pH and bowel motility. He found that urinary indican levels after one week on Aloe were lowered, suggesting an increase in both 
protein breakdown and absorption. He also found stool specific gravity was reduced with a faster 
movement of stool through the bowel, both suggesting an increase in water in the stool. No diarrhoea was 
reported. He also found the pH was normalised or buffered, meaning that Aloe Vera acted as an alkalising 
agent. He commented that the Aloe Vera had helped to normalise stool bacterial cultures in six subjects, four of the six having previously had high yeast levels in their gut. In discussing his findings, Jeffrey Bland said: 
  
 The most important trials to appear recently were published by T Syed et al; one on Psoriasis in the 
Journal of Tropical Medicine and International Health and the other on Genital herpes in the Journal of Dermatological treatment. Both fitted the necessary criteria being randomised double blind and controlled and showe
d 
impressive results. They achieved an 83% cure rate with Aloe in Psoriasis against a 6% rate with the 
control. In the Herpes trial there was 66.7% healing as opposed to 6.7% with the control. To establish 
the validity beyond doubt these results must be repeated by other workers in other clinical trials 
elsewhere. "The tolerance of the subjects to Aloe Vera juice supplementation was in general quite good. One person 
complained of gas and another of transient gut pain which after continued supplementation throughout the 
week, diminished. The other eight subjects were asymptomatic with no diarrhoea, nausea, intestinal 
bloating or distress. Four of the subjects noted an improved bowel regularity with greater gastrointestinal 
comfort after eating. Three indicated that they felt some enhancement of energy and a sense of well-
being, although this could not be confirmed quantitatively." It must be noted because the Food and Drugs Administration regard Aloe Vera as a food, the gel in the 
USA must be referred to as juice. Although the scale of this experiment is too small to be of real significance, I believe it does highlight, in a semi-controlled fashion, the experiences that are repeatedly talked of anecdotally and it reinforces the 
need for further investigation on a larger scale. Professor Edzard Ernst, Director of the Centre for Complementary Health Studies at Exeter University 
with whom I have had discussions also feels Aloe should be formally investigated. But, regrettably, clinical trials are expensive and they require willing consultants to undertake them. If a pharmaceutical 
company thought there was money to be made out of Aloe, then funding would be forthcoming, but for 
them it would be pointless as they could never achieve a patent! However, I believe the future of Aloe Vera is rosy because there is a definite move in the community towards natural remedies and the medical profession is beginning to recognise this and slowly adapt. Complementary medicine is undeniably a major growth area. In the UK 15 per cent of non-hospital 
consultations are now with complementary therapists whose numbers have mushroomed from 2,900 in 
1981, to more than 60,000 at the last count. But the UK still lags behind most European countries and the United States, where visits to complementary therapists exceed those to conventional doctors. Recently published in the British Medical Journal, the official organ of the British Medical Association, 
in a series of articles on this change towards complementary and over the counter medicines were some 
most interesting statistics. Market breakdown for major categories of non-prescription medicines: 
 
Pain £196.4m (16.7%) 
Skin 2143.5m (1 1.3%) 
Cold £93.9m (7.4%)  
 Cough £68.1 m (5.4%) 
Sore throat £72.7m (5.7%) 
Indigestion £73.9m (5.8%) 
Total £1268.5m  
 
Everyday ailments for which people report treating themselves rather than seeking a consultation with a 
doctor: 
 
Ailment  Percentage of people reporting ailment  (n=2000) 
Headache 80 
Athlete's foot 79 
Dandruff 73 
Heartburn 62 
Migraine 62 
Period pain 61 
Colds 60 
Coughs 56 
Mouth ulcers 51 
Acid stomach 50 
 
The article concluded with a comment that has two implications for doctors. If the scope of self-medication widens as predicted, doctors, pharmacists, and other health professionals 
will need to respond in a more active and constructive way than they have to date. (BMJ Vol.312, 30/3/1996)  
I am encouraged by interest shown in university departments at Oxford, both on the dermatology and 
gastroenterology departments, and there is a reasonable chance that proper trials looking at venous leg 
ulcers and IBS may be conducted there in the near future; watch out for the next edition! Aloe Vera's eponym 'the Medicine Plant' is a fitting one and we must constantly remind ourselves of the 
influence that folklore has had on medicine over the ages and the plants that have provided powerful 
drugs once isolated - opium from the poppy, digitalis from the foxglove, ergot from rye, and aspirin from 
willow bark to name but a few. "Within the infant rind of this weak flower poison hath residence and medicine power." Romeo and Juliet. In fact, 121 prescription drugs in common use owe their origins to plants, being concocted from 95 
separate plants. Eighty-eight per cent of people in developing countries rely on plant extracts for primary health care. In Africa where the AIDS pandemic is most aggressive and from where Aloe Vera originated, GIFTS OF 
HEALTH (Global Initiative for Traditional Systems of Health), a charitable organisation, is considering a 
project to develop Aloe and educate the people to use it, amongst other things to treat genital herpes. It 
has been shown to be effective against this virus whose lesions often form the portal of entry of the HIV 
virus and so by reducing the effects of genital herpes one can similarly reduce the incidence of AIDS. Most plant species are to be found in rainforests of which 400,000 hectares, or the area of Scotland, are 
disappearing every week so by 2000 AD, 10 per cent of the world's 250,000 species of plant could be 
extinct. I will leave you to ponder on this and suggest the following two quotations: 
 
 
"The Doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the 
human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease". Thomas A Edison 1847-1931 American Inventor 
  
" ...and above all do no harm." Hippocrates 
 
 
 
FURTHER READING 
 
 
1. Aloe Vera 
Carole Miller Kent. Arlington, Virginia The Print Factory, 1979 
 
2. Aloe Vera Heals - The Scientific Facts K. Gottlieb. Denver, Colorado. Royal Publications Inc., 1980 
 
3. The Silent Healer Bill Coats. 1984 
 4. Remarkable Aloe - Aloe through the Ages Ivan E. Danhof PhD. M.D. Omnimedicus Press, 1987 
 
5. Aloe - Myth Magic Medicine Odus M. Hennessee 
Universal Graphics. Lawston O.K. 73502 1990  
6. Aloe Vera The Natural Healer Paul Hornsey-Pennell 
Wordsmith Publishing Company, 1994 
 
7. Aloe Vera - The Inside Story Bill Coats 1995. 8. Aloe Vera - The Health and Healing Plant Ed. Maykut and Marc Schweitzer, 1995 
  
 GLOSSARY 
 
 
Acne 
Skin disease characterised by pustules and cysts especially on the face. Vulgaris - occurring in adolescents and young adults. Rosacea - occurring in middle age and producing redness of nose and cheeks. Amino Acids 
Group of organic nitrogen containing compounds that form the component molecules of proteins. Anthraquinones 
A complex of phenolic substances which can be found in the sap of Aloe Vera acknowledged to have 
both pain killing, antibacterial and viruscidal activity. They also exhibit powerful laxative effects in their 
pure form. Bioflavonoid 
Any of a group of biologically active substances found widely in plants. Also called 'Vitamin P'. Antioxidant 
A group of substances including certain Vitamins, Minerals and Micronutrients which counter the activity 
of free radicals, inhibiting their ability to oxidise. Catalyst 
A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself suffering any permanent chemical 
change. Carbohydrates 
A large group of organic compounds including sugars and starch that contain carbon, hydrogen and 
oxygen. They are a source of food and energy for animals. Candida Albicans 
A yeast like parasite fungus that causes the condition known as 'thrush'. Colitis 
An inflammatory condition of the colon or large bowel. Collagen 
A fibrous protein occurring in bone, cartilage and connective tissue. Crohn's Disease 
An inflammatory disease of the small bowel otherwise called regional ileitis. Dalton 
A unit of measurement named after the British chemist John Dalton (1766-1844). Dermabrasion 
Method of treating scarred skin by surgically removing the damaged epidermis. Diverticulosis 
A condition in which diverticulae in the colon are associated with lower abdominal pain. Dysmotility 
Disorder of movement, causing irregular spasms of the bowel leading to abdominal pain. Eczema 
A non-contagious inflammation of the skin, marked usually by redness, itching and weeping lesions 
which become encrusted and scaly. Usually found in dry skin. Elastin 
A protein that is the principal component of elastic tissue found in the walls of arteries, the dermis of the 
skin and other elastic structures. Enzyme 
Any of the numerous proteins produced by living organisms and functioning as biochemical catalysts. Epithelium 
A layer of cells that covers the body or lines a cavity that connects with it. Fibroblast 
A cell in connective tissue that is responsible for producing fibres and is most important in the healing 
process. Free Radical 
An atom or group of atoms containing at least one unpaired electron, existing for a brief period of time 
before reacting to produce a stable molecule. Immune System 
A series of cells found in the blood, tissues and lymphoid system which protects the body from attack by 
micro-organisms and altered cells such as cancer cells. Irritable Bowel Syndrome 
A functional bowel disorder in which abdominal pain is associated with defecation or change in bowel 
habit or abdominal distension. Lignin 
A complex polymer of cellulose occurring in certain plant cell walls making the plant rigid. When applied 
to the skin in a topical cream it bestows an ability to penetrate, carrying accompanying elements with it. Lymphocyte 
A white blood cell, part of the immune system, found in the blood and lymphoid tissue. Metabolism 
The sum of the chemical processes that occur in living organisms resulting in growth, production of 
energy and elimination of waste, etc. NSAID 
A group of drugs used in the treatment of arthritis, achieving their effect by the inhibition of prostaglandin 
synthesis. All can cause gastrointestinal irritation. Phagocyte 
Cells found in the blood and tissue which can engulf and digest other cells, micro-organisms and other 
foreign bodies. Pinocytosis 
A process whereby microscopic particles are engulfed whole by cells 
 
Placebo 
A substance containing no active drug given to a patient usually to compare its effects with those of a real 
drug. Polysaccharides 
Long chain sugars that form chemical bonds with water to produce mucilaginous and lubricating fluids. Propolis 
A resinous aromatic substance collected by bees from the bark and buds of trees, used to line their hives 
thereby creating a sterile environment. Protein 
Organic compounds of high molecular weight that contain amino acids as their basic structural units. They are essential for the growth and repair of animal tissue. Prostaglandin 
A group of hormone like substances capable of stimulating the smooth muscle of the uterus or that in 
blood vessels. Psoriasis 
A chronic non-contagious skin disease characterised by inflammation and red, scaly patches. It can also 
cause a type of arthritis. Saponins 
Soapy substances, chemically glycosides which provide cleansing and antiseptic properties. Seborrhoea 
A disease of the skin characterised by excessive secretion of greasy material (sebum) leading to the 
formation of oily scales on the skin. Synergism 
The action of two or more substances to achieve an effect greater than the sum of their individual effects. Systemic Lupus Erythematous (S.L.E. or Lupus) 
A chronic inflammatory disease affecting the skin and internal organs. Tinea Pedis 
A fungal disease of the skin of the foot. Urticaria 
An acute or chronic disease of the skin causing intense itchiness associated with red, raised patches often 
associated with an allergic reaction to internal or external agents. Often referred to as 'Hives' or 
'Nettlerash'. PART II 
 
RESEARCH BIBLIOGRAPHY 
 
Please note that when I OCR scanned this book I proofread all of Part 1, but in Part 2, I only proofread 
the explanatory paragraph at the beginning of each new section; I did not proofread all the bibliographic 
references; I just formatted them. Watch out for mistakes. OCR – SCANNER  
The research bibliography has been divided into sections for convenient use. In each section, the papers 
and articles are in alphabetical order by author and in chronological order where an author has written 
more than one paper. Where I consider work to be important, it appears in bold type . The importance 
attached to any work may reflect the subject matter, the calibre of the author or Institution or may just be 
of historical interest. The vast majority of research into Aloe Vera tends to emphasise the positive attributes of the plant but 
there are, as one would expect, some negative ones. Unfortunately, various similar studies involving Aloe preparations do not always produce consistent 
results. This outcome can probably be attributed to variability in the source of the Aloe plants, variability in the production process, or the presence in the preparations of multiple components with varying and 
even opposing biological activities. There is also the tendency to use different vehicles for delivering the 
aloe. Most research carried out to date involves laboratory experiments or experiments with animals. Only a small proportion, describes human clinical trials but this pattern is changing as shown by some of the 
more recent work which looks at Psoriasis, Diabetes Mellitus and Genital Herpes. Very shortly, I hope to be able to add to the clinical trials when I publish work on Aloe Vera in the 
treatment of chronic various leg ulcers and in the Irritable Bowel Syndrome. A short introduction to each section will point out areas of interest, concern or criticism so that the reader 
may quickly locate the required information from the considerable amount of material available. SECTION I - EFFECT ON CELL GROWTH 
 
The effect of Aloe Vera on cells is studied in two areas. (a) What is its effect on the growth of normal 
cells and (b) What is its effect on the growth of preneoplastic or frankly malignant cells. When assessing this effect it is most important to look at which fraction of Aloe Vera is being tested. Is it 
the gel or is it largely the sap or phenolic (anthraquinone) fraction? Their effects are very different; in 
fact, they produce an opposite result. Exposure to the gel stimulates the replication of normal cells, whereas the anthraquinones and their 
derivatives will retard cell growth or may kill them. Both fibroblasts and neuron-like cells have been 
tested and it has been shown that there is a significant increase in proliferation in vitro under the influence 
of gel extracts. Hydroxyanthraquinones, those found in Aloe Vera, have not been found to be carcinogenic, but there is a 
question mark over some of the other members of this chemical group, e.g. where amino or nitro groups 
are involved. These have been shown to produce renal tumours in experimental rats though the effect on 
humans is still inconclusive. The break-down product in humans, Emodin, a phenolic anthraquinone, 
shows limited evidence of toxicity / carcinogenicity in experimental animals. This which is important 
when considering people who abuse laxatives such as Senna or Cascara in which the substances are found. Bouthet, C.F. ; Schirf, V.R. ; Winters, W.D. Stimulation of neuron-like cell growth of Aloe 
substances. Phytother. Res. 1995. 9. 185-188. Brasher, W.J. ; Zimmermann, E.R. ; Collings, C.K. The effects of Prednisolone, Indomethacin and 
Aloe Vera Gel on tissue culture cells, oral surgery, oral medicine and oral pathology. 1969. 27. 122-
128. Danhof I.E. ; McAnalley, B.H. Stabilised Aloe Vera - effect on human skin cells Drug & Cosmetic 
Industry. 1983. 133. 52,54,105-106. Jeong, H.Y; Kim, J.H. ; Hwang, S.J. ; Rhee, D.K. Anticancer effects of Aloe on sarcoma 180 in ICR 
mouse and on human cancer cell lines. Yakhak Hoeji. 1994. 38(3). 311-321. Nakasugi; Tohru; Komai; Koichiro. Antimutagen of Aloe plants (Anthraquinones - Aloe Emodin) Kinki 
Daigaku, Nogakubu, Kiyo. 1994. 27. 47-54. Sendelbach, L.E. A Review of the Toxitcity and Carcinogenicity of Anthraquinone 
derivatives.Toxicology 1989. 57.227-240. Tsuda, H.; Ito, M.; Hirono, I.; Kawai, K.; Beppu, H.; Fujita, K.; Nagao, M. Inhibitory effect of Aloe 
arborescens Miller var natalensis Berger on induction of preneoplastic focal lesions in the rat liver. International Congress of Phytotherapy. 1991, Oct. Seoul, Korea 53. Tsuda, H.; Matsumoto, K.; Ibo, M.; Hiroto, I.; Kawai, K.; Beppu, H.; Fujita, K.; Nagao, M. Inhibitory 
effect of Aloe arborescens. Miller var. natalensis Berger (Kidachi Aloe) on induction of preneoplastic focal lesions in the rat liver. Phytotherapy Research. 1993. 7. (No Special Issue) 543-547. Westendorf; Marquardt; Poginsky; Dominiak; Schmidt. Genotoxicity of naturally occurring 
Hydroxyanthraquinones. Evaluation of mutagenicity and cell-transforming activity. Mutat. Res. 1990 Jan. 240(1). 1-12. Wimbus, W.D. ; Benavides, R.; Clause, W.J Effects of Aloe extracts on human and tumour cells in-vitro. Econ. Bot. 1981. 35(1) 89-95. Winters, W.D. ; Benavides, R.; Clouse, W.J. Effects of Aloe Extracts on Human Normal and Tumor 
Cells In Vitro. Econ. Bot. 1981. 35: 89-95. Wolfe, D.; Schmutgte, C.; Westendorf, J.; Marquardt, H. Hydroxyanthraquinones as tumour promoters: 
enhancement of malignant transformation of C3H mouse fibroblasts and growth stimulation of primary 
rat hepatocytes. Cancer Res. (USA). 1990 Oct. 50(20). 6540-6544. SECTION II - ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECT 
 
Experimental work in this field has largely been carried about by the podiatrists (chiropodists) and one 
worker stands out above all others. He is Professor R.H. Davis, Professor of Physiology at the 
Pennsylvanian College of Podiatric Medicine. He has repeatedly demonstrated Aloe's anti-inflammatory 
effect, both on soft tissues and in arthritis. His work, however, is limited to animal experiments but he has 
not carried out any Clinical Studies on patients. Afzal, M.; Ali, M.; Hassam, R.A.N. ; Sweedan, N.; Dhami, M.S.I. Identification of some prostanoids in 
Aloe Vera extracts. Planta Medica. 1991. 57(1). 38-40. Bradshaw, T.W. Aloe Vera: its influence on the physiology of wound healing and inflammation. J. 
Brit. Pod. Med. 1996. 51(2). 25-29. A7 
 
Brasher, W.J. ; Zimmermann, E.R. ; Collings, C.K. The effects of Prednisolone, Indomethacin and 
Aloe Vera Gel on tissue culture cells, oral surgery, oral medicine and oral pathology. 1969. 27. 122-
128. Capasso, F; Mascolo N.; Autore, G.; Duraccio, M.R. Effect of Indomethacin on Aloin and 1,8 
Dioxianthraquinone-induced Production of Prostaglandins in Rat Isolated Colon. Prostglandins. 1983. 26. 557-562. Davis R.H.; Didonato J.J.; Hartman G.M. ; Haas R.C. Anti-Inflammatory and wound healing activity of a 
growth substance in Aloe Vera.J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1984 Feb. 84:. Davis, R.H.; Agnew, PS. ; Shapiro, E. Antiarthritic activity of anthraquinones found in Aloe for 
podiatric medicine. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1986. 76(2) 61-66. Davis, R.H.; Kabbani, J.M. ; Marc, N.P. Aloe Vera and inflammations. Proc. Pa. Acad. Sci. 1986. (recd. 1987) 60(1) 67-70. Davis, R.H.; Leitner, M.E. ; Russo, J.M. Topical anti-inflammatory activity of Aloe Vera as 
measured by ear swelling. J. Am. Podiatric. Med. Assoc. 1987. 77(11) 610-612. Davis, R.H.; Leitner, M.G. ; Russo, J M; Byrne, M.E. Anti inflammatory activity of Aloe Vera 
against a spectrum of irritants. (Oral activity found to be dependent on presence of 
Anthraquinones). J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. (US). 1989 June. 79 (6). 263-276. Davis, R.H.; Maro, N.P. Aloe Vera and gibberellin. Anti-inflammatory activity in diabetes. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1989 Jan. 79 (1). 2426. Davis, R.H.; Rosenthal, K.Y. ; Cesario, L.R. ; Omu, G.A. Processed Aloe Vera administered 
topically inhibits inflammation. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1989. 79(8). 395-397. Davis, R.H.; Parker, W.L. ; Murdoch, D.P. Aloe Vera as a biologically active vehicle for hydrocortisone 
acetate. J.Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1991. 81(1). 1-9. A3   
 Davis, R.H. Influence of Aloe on inflammation and wound healing. International Congress of 
Phytotherapy. 1991 Oct. Seoul, Korea. 29. Davis, R.H.; Stewart, G.J. ; Bregman, P.J. Aloe Vera and the inflamed synovial pouch model. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1992 Mar. 82 (3). 140-148. Davis, R.H.; Didonato, J.J.; Hartman, G.M. ; Haas, R.C. Antiinflammatory and wound healing 
activity of a growth substance in Aloe Vera. J. Am. Podiatric. Med. Assoc. 1994 Feb. 84(2). 77-81. Davis, R.H.; Didonato, J.J.; Johnson, R.W. ; Stewart, C.B. Aloe Vera, hydrocortisone and sterol 
influence on wound tensile strength and anti-inflammation. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1994 Dec. 84(12). 614-621. Fujita, K.; Teradoura, R.; Nagatsu, T Bradykinase activity of Aloe extract. Biochemical 
Pharmacology. 1976. 25. 205. Fujita, K.; Ito, S.; Teradaira, R.; Beppu, H. Properties of carboxypeptidase from Aloe. Biochemical 
Pharmacology. 1979. 28. 1261-1262. Ibo, S; Teradaira, R.; Beppu, H; Obata, M.; Nagatsu, T.; Fujita, K. Properties and 
pharmacological activity of carboxypeptidase in Aloe arborescens Miller var. natalensis Berger. International Congress of Phytotherapy. 1991 Oct. Seoul, Korea. 39. Ibo, S; Teradaira, R; Beppu, H; Obata. M.; Fijita, K; Nagabsu, T. Biochemical properties of 
carboxypeptidase from Aloe arborescens Miller var. natalensis Berger. Phytotherapy Research. 1993. 7. No special issue. S26-29. Ibo, S.; Teradaira, R.; Beppu, H.; Obata, M.; Fujita, K.; Nagatsu, T. Biochemical properties of Carboxypeptidase from Aloe arborescens Miller var. natalensis Berger. Phytother. Res. 1993. 7. S26-29. A2 
 
Knight, J.H. ; Stevens, E. Anti-inflammatory and healing properties of Aloe barbadensis. International 
Congress of Phytotherapy 1991 Oct. Seoul, Korea. 31. Nakagomi, K.; Oka, S.; Tomizuka, N.; Yamamoto, N.; Masui, T; Nakazawa, H. A novel biological 
activity in Aloe components effects on mast cell degranulation and platelet aggregation. Rep. 
Ferment Res. Inst. (Yakabie) 1985. 0(63). 23-30. Obata, M.; Ibo, S.; Beppu, H.; Fujita, K.; Nagatou, T. Mechanism of anti-inflammatory and antithermal 
burn action of CPase from Aloe arborescens Miller var natalensis Berger in rats and mice. Phytother. Res. 1993. 7. Special issue. 530-533. Udupa, S.L. ; Udupa, A.L. ; Kulkarmi, D.R. Anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties of Aloe 
Vera. Fitoterapia. 1994. 65(2). 141145. Vamamoto, M.; Sugyama, K.; Voketa, M.; Maeda, Y; Nakagomi, K.; Nakazawa, H. Inhibitory 
effects of Aloe extracts on antigen and compound 48-80 induced histamine release from rat 
peritoneal mast cells. Japanese Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. 1993. 39(5). 395-
400. Yagi, A.; Harada, N.; Yamada, H.; Iwadare, S.; Nishioka, I. Antibradykinin active material in Aloe 
saponaria. Journal of Pharmaceutical Science. 1982 b. 71. 1172-1174. Yamamoto, M;. Sugiyama, K.; Yokota, M.; Maeda, Y.; Nakagomi, K.; Nakazawa, H. Inhibitory effects of 
Aloe extracts on antigen and compound 48-80 induced histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells. Japanese Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. 1993. 39(5) 395-400. SECTION III - ANTI-MICROBIAL EFFECT 
 
Extracts of Aloe Vera have been shown to possess anti-bacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal/yeast effects. This action is mediated by both the gel and the sap but by far the most potent in vitro effects are seen by the anthraquinones in the sap. Whereas in vitro the anti-viral effects are mediated through the long chain 
sugars which can be consumed orally or injected. Andersen, D.C.; Weber, N.D.; Wood, S.G.; Hughes, B.G. ; Murray, B.K. ; North, J.A. In vitro 
virucidal activity of selected anthraquinones and anthraquinone derivatives. Antiviral. Res. 1991. Sep. 16(2). 18596. Benigni, R.; Substances with antibiotic action contained in anthraquinonic drugs. Chem. Ab. 1950. 44. 11036. Bruce, W.G.G. Investigations of the anti-bacterial activity in the Aloe. South African Medical Journal. 1987. 81. 984. Gottshall, R.Y. ; Jennings, J.C.; Weller, L.E. et al. Anti-bacterial substances in seed plants active 
against tubercle bacilli. Am. Rev. Tuberc. 1950. 60. 475-480. Heggers, J.P.; Winters, W. Aloe and other topical antibacterial agents in wound healing. Aloe Today / Aloecorp. 1993. 8-11. A4 
 
Kahlon, J.B.; Kemp, M.C. ; Carpenter, R.H.; McAnalley, B.H. ; McDaniel, H.R. ; Shannen, W.M. Inhibition of AIDS virus replication by acemannan in vitro. Mol. Biother. 1991. 3. 127-135. Kahlon, J.B.; Kemp, M.C. ; Yawei, N.; Carpenter, R.H.; Shannon, W.M. ; McAnalley, B.H. In-vitro 
evaluation of the synergistic antiviral effects of acemannan in combination with azidothymidine and 
acyclovir. Mol. Biother. 1991. 3. 214-223. Levin, H, Harenfratz, R, Fruedman, J, Palevitch, D, Pesl, M., Partial purificaiton and some properties of an antibacterial compound from Aloe Vera. Phytother. Res. 1988. 2(2). 67-69. Lorenzetti, L.J. ; Salisbury, R.; Beal, J.L. ; Baldwin, J.N. Bacteriostatic property of Aloe Vera. Journal of Pharmaceutical Science. 1984. 53. 1287. Mahmoud; Hazem; EI-Sibaie; EI-Borollosy; EI-Kady. Microbiological studies on the Phyllosphere of the 
desert plant Aloe Vera. Extraction of Anthraquinone-glycosides and Anthraquinone-aglycone from plant leaves, tested as anti-microbial substances against 6 pathogenic and non-pathogenic micro-organisms. 1986. Egypt. J. Microbiol. 21(2) 229-238. Patel, R.B. ; Gandhi, T.P. ; Chakravarthy, B.K. ; Patel, R J.; Pundarikakshudu, K.; Dhyani, H.K. Antibacterial activity of phenolic and nonphenolic fractions on some Indian medicinal plants. Indian 
Drugs. 1986. 23(11) 595-597. Sheets, M.A. ; Unger, B.A. ; Giggleman, G.F; Tizard, I.R. Studies of the effect of acemannan on 
retrovirus infections: clinical stabilization of feline leukemia virus-infected cats. Mol. Biother. 1991. 3. 41-45. Sims, R.M. ; Zimmermann, E.R. Report on effect of Aloe Vera on growth of certain micro-
organisms. Baylon College of Dentistry, Dallas Microb Assay Services. 1969. 1. 230-233. Sims, R.M. ; Zimmermann, E.R. Effectiveness of undiluted Aloe 99 gel against Trichomonas 
Vaginalis, Dallas Microb - Assay Service. Aloe Vera of America Archives, Stabilized Aloe Vera. 1971. 1. 241-242. Sims, Ruth M.; E.R. Zimmermann Report - The Effect of Aloe Vera on Mycotic Organisms (Fungi) 
Aloe Vera of America Archives. Stabilized Aloe Vera. 1971. 1. 237-238. Sims, Ruth M.; E.R. Zimmermann. Effect of Aloe Vera on Herpes Simplex and Herpesvirus (Strain 
Zoster). Aloe Vera of America Archives. Stabilized Aloe Vera. 1971. 1. 239-240. Soeda, M.; Osborne, M.; Ome, M.; Kawashima, K. Studies on antibacterial and anti-fungal activity of Cape Aloe. Nippon Saikingaku Zasshi 1966. 21. 609-619. Sydiskis; Owen; Lohr; Rosler; Blomster. Inactivation of Herpes simplex virus by Anthraquinones 
isolated from plants. J Dental Res. 1989 June. 68. 935. Sydiskis, R.J.; Owen, D.G. ; Lehr, J.L. ; Rasler, K.H. ; Blomster, R.N. Inactivation of enveloped viruses by 
anthraquinones extracted from plants. Anti microb-Agents-Chemother. 1991 Dec. 35(12). 2463-2466. Syed TA; Afsal, M.; Ashfa, Q.; Ahmad, S.; Holt, AX; Ahmad Ali S.; Ahmad, S.H. Management of 
genital herpes in men with 0.5% Aloe Vera extract in a hydrophilic cream: a placebo controlled double blind study. J. of Dermatological Treatment. 1997. 8. 99-102. SECTION IV - USE IN BURNS 
 The most common nickname attributed to Aloe Vera is "the burn plant". Again, here we find some good 
research but very few modern clinical studies, despite the fact that Aloe Vera is used quite widely in the USA and even in the UK for general burns and post radiotherapy. Of the current workers, Professor J P 
Heggars, who is the Head of Research at the Plastic Surgery Department at the University of Galveston, 
Texas, is perhaps the most celebrated. His work has never been funded by the Aloe industry, unlike 
several other workers, so is truly independent 
 
Ashley, F.L. ; O'Laughlin, B.J. ; Peterson, R.; Fernandia, L.; Stein, H.; Schwastz, A.N. The use of Aloe 
Vera in the treatment of thermal and irradiation burns in laboratory animals and humans. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 1957. 20. 383-396. Cera, L.M. ; Heggers, J.P; Robson, M.C. ; Hagsbrern, W.J. The therapeutic efficacy of Aloe Vera 
cream dermaide Aloe in thermal injuries 2 cases. J. Am. Anim. Hosp. Assoc. 1980. 16(5). 768-772. Cera, L.M. ; Heggers, J.R; Hagstrom, W.J. ; Robson, M.C. Therapeutic protocol for chemically 
injured animals and its successful use in an extensively burned rhesus monkey. Journal of the 
American Animal Hospital Association. 1982. 18. 633-638. Collins, C.E., M.D. Aloe Vera as a Therapeutic Agent In the treatment of roentgen and radium burns. The Radiological Review and Chicago Medical Recorder. 1935 June. 5(6). Collins, C.E. ; Collins, C. Roentgen dermatitis treated with fresh whole leaf of Aloe Vera. American 
Journal of Reoentgenology. 1935. 33. 396-397. Crewe, J.E. Aloes in the treatment of burns and scalds. Minnesota Medicine. 1939. 22. 538-539. Cutak, L. Aloe Vera as a Remedy for Burns. Missouri Botanical Garden Bulletin. 1937. 25. 169-174. Loveman, A.B. Leaf of Aloe Vera in Treatment of Roentgen Ray Ulcers. Archives of Dermatology and 
Syphilology 1937. 36. 838-843. Lowenthal, L.J.A. Species of Aloe (Other than Aloe Vera) in the Treatment of Roentgen Dermatitis. The 
Journal of Investigative Dermatology 1949. 12. 295-298. Lushbaugh, C.C. ; Hale, D.B. Experimental acute radiodermatitis following beta radiation. V. 
histopthological study of the mode of action of therapy with Aloe Vera. Cancer 1953. 6. 690-698. Mandeville, F.B. Aloe Vera in the treatment of radiation ulcers of mucous membranes. Radiology 1939. 32. 598-599. Obata, M.; Ibo, S.; Beppu, H.; Fujita, K.; Nagatou, T Mechanism of anti-inflammatory and 
antithermal  
burn action of CPase from Aloe arborescens Miller var natalensis Berger in rats and mice. Phytother. Res. 1993. 7. Special issue. 530-533. Roberts, D.B. ; Travis, E.L. Acemannan containing wound dressing gel reduces radiation-induced skin reactions in C3H mice. Int. J. Radiation Oncol. Biol. Phys. 1995. 32(4) 1047-1052. Rodriguez-Bigas, M.; Cruz, N.I. ; Suarez, A. Comparative evaluation of Aloe Vera in the 
management of burn wounds in guinea pigs. Plast. Reconstr, Surg. (U.S.) 1988. 81(3). 386-389. Rowe, TD. Effect of Fresh Aloe Vera Jelly in the Treatment of ThirdDegree Roentgen Reactions on 
White Rats. Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association. 1940. 29. 348-350. Rowe, TD. ; Lovell, B.K. ; Parks, L.M. Further observations on the use of Aloe Vera leaf in the treatment 
of third-degree X-ray reactions. J. of the American Pharmaceutical Assoc. 1991. 30. 266-269. Ship, A.G. Is topical Aloe Vera plant mucus helpful in burn treatment? J. of the American Medical Assoc. 1977. 238. 1770. Visuthikasol, V.; Chowchwen, N.; Sukwassarab, Y. Effect of Aloe Vera gel to healing of burn wound - a 
clinical and histologic study. J. Med. Assoc. Thai. 1993 Aug. 78(8). 703-709. Visuthikosol, V.; Sukwanarat, Y.; Chowchuen, B.; Sriurairatana, S.; Boonpucknavig, V. Effect of Aloe 
Vera Gel to healing of burn wound a clinical and histologic study. J. Med. Assoc,. Thai. 1995. 78(8). 403409. A21 
 
Williams, M.S. ; Bink, M.; Loprimzi, C.L. ; et. al. Phase III double-blind evaluation of the Aloe Vera 
gel as a prophylactic agent for radiation induced skin toxicity. Int. J. Radiat. Oncol-Biol-Phys. 1996 Sept. 36(2). 345-349. Wright, C.S. Aloe Vera in the Treatment of Roentgen Ulcers and Telangiectasis. Journal of the American 
Medical Association. 1936. 106. 1363-1364. SECTION V - ANTIDIABETIC EFFECT 
 Here we have both animal and human studies, the latter only carried out last year in 1996. These two 
trials in 1996 were placebo controlled and showed that the average (mean) blood glucose level of the 
patients in the Aloe juice group was significantly reduced from the second week of the study and 
continued to fall throughout the treatment period. Whereas, there were no changes reported in the placebo 
group. Some studies on mice have shown that Aloe causes a rapid decrease in blood sugar as does insulin, but, 
that the blood glucose level recovers when its administration is discontinued. Beppu et al have 
demonstrated that there is a glycoprotein in Aloe with a molecular weight of about 50,000 that is a 
component with a quick hypoglycaemic action, but there are thought to be at least two antidiabetic agents because of differing effects seen when using whole leaf as opposed to gel or pulp. The precise nature of 
the antidiabetic effect remains unknown. Two animal studies using mice (J.S. Messa 1985) and on rabbits 
(Roman Ramos 1991) showed little hypoglycaemic activity. Ajabmoor, M.A. Effects of Aloes on blood glucose levels in normal and alloxan diabetic mice. J. 
Ethnopharmacology. 1990 Feb. 28(2). 215220. Beppu, H.; Nagamura, Y,; Fujita, K. Hypoglycaemic and anti-diabetic effects of Aloe arborescens Miller 
var. natalensis Berger. International Congress of Phytotherapy. 1991 Oct. Seoul, Korea. 44. Beppu, H.; Nagamura, Y; Fujita, K. Hypoglycaemic and anti-diabetic effects in mice of Aloe 
arborescens Miller var. natalensis Berger. Phytotherapy Research 1993. 7. No special issue. 837-
842. Davis, R.H.; Leitner, M.G. ; Russo, J.M. Aloe Vera (A barbadensis). A natural approach for treating wounds, edema, and pain in diabetes. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1988. 78(2). 60-68. Davis, R.H.; Marc, N.P Aloe Vera and gibberellin. Anti-inflammatory activity in diabetes. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1989 Jan. 79 (1). 2426. Koo, MWL Aloe Vera: anti-ulcer and anti-diabetic effects. Phytother Res. 1994. 8(8). 461-464. Messa, J.S. A study of the crude antidiabetic drugs used in Arabian folk medicine. International Journal of 
Crude Drug Research. 1985. 23(3). 137-145. Messa, J.S. A study on the crude antidiabetic drugs used in Arabian folk medicine. Int. J. Crude Drug 
Res. 1985. 23(3). 137-145. A24 
 
Roman Ramos, R.; Flores Saenz, J.L. ; Partida Hermandez, G.; Larca Lemus, A.; Alarcom Aguilar, F. 
Experimental study of the hypoglycaemic effect of some antidiabetic plants. Arch. Invest. Med.Mex. 1991 Jan-Mar. 22(1) 87-93. Yongchaiyudia S.; Rungpitakangsi, V.; Bunyapraphatsaran, et al. Antidiabetic activity of Aloe 
Vera Juice I. Clinical trial in new cases of Diabetes Mellitus. Phytomedicine. 1996. 3(3) 241-243. Yongchaiyudia S.; Rungpitakangsi, V.; Bunyapraphatsaran, et al. Antidiabetic activity of Aloe Vera Juice II. Clinical trial in new cases of Diabetes Mellitus patients and combination with Glibenclamide 
Phytomedicine. 1996. 3(3) 245-248. SECTION VI - CARDIOVASCULAR & LIPID EFFECT 
 Agarawal combined Aloe Vera and the husk of isabgol (100g and 20g/ day respectively) as part of a diet 
for lunch and dinner in 5000 patients for five years. All had atherosclerotic heart disease and he reported marked decreases in the serum total cholesterol, serum triglyceride, and the fasting and postprandial blood 
glucose level in diabetic patients. It is interesting that there were no side effects reported amongst this 
huge trial. Joshi's animal study has demonstrated that hyperlipidaemic rats fed on Aloe Vera leaves lowered total serum cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids and non esterified free fatty acids. Importantly, the high 
density lipoprotein cholesterol faction (anti atherosclerotic) was elevated. Agarwal, O.P Prevention of atheromatous heart diesease. Angiology. 1985. 36(8) 485-492. Dixit, V.P. ; Joshi, S. Effect of Aloe barbadensis and clofibrate on serum lipids in triton induced 
hyperlipidaemia in presbytis - entellus - entellus monkeys. Indian J. Med. Res. 78 (Sept.) 1983. (Recd. 1984). 417-421. Joshi, S.; Dixit, V.P. Hypolipidaemic effect of Aloe barbadensis Aloe fraction I in cholesterol fed 
albino rats I. Lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. India. SB (Biol. Sci.) 1988. 56(4) 339-342. Vagi, A.; Shibata, S.; Nishioka, I.; Iwadare, S.; Ishiday, Y. Cardiac stimulant action of constituents of 
Aloe saponaria. J. of Pharmaceutical Sciences. 1982a. 71. 739-741. SECTION VII - ANTI-AGEING EFFECT AND EFFECT ON U.V. LIGHT 
 Skin ageing is a result of both genetic and environmental factors and one of the most important aspects of 
the environment is the photo damage caused by UV light. Changes in the dermis affect the overlying skin 
surface, so with loss of collagen and elastin fibres, giving less support to the epidermis, and with reduced 
circulatory perfusion, the quality of the skin changes and the wrinkles appear. Associated pigment changes, together with other surface blemishes, produce the typical appearance of old skin. According to 
Dr Ivan Danhof, true "anti-ageing" actions of a substance requires evidence for the return to normal of the  
 regenerative/degenerative balance exemplified by increased collagen and elastin synthesis. Apart from 
Vitamin A derivatives and alpha-hydroxy acids, extracts of Aloe Vera can reverse degenerative skin 
changes and restore the equilibrium in fibre synthesis. The sun provides the major source of ultra violet radiation and with the possible reduction in stratospheric 
ozone, the expected increase in ambient UVB radiation is a matter of growing concern. The increase in skin cancers is known to be associated with UV-induced immune suppression. Strickland's studies find 
that an Aloe Vera extract ameliorated some of the immunosuppressive effects of UV radiation. Aloe Vera appeared to prevent damage to epidermal dendritic cells but it may be that Aloe exerts its 
influence later in the chain of immunosuppressive events or perhaps by inhibiting the formation or release of factors such as TNFa which, amongst others, mediate the T cell immune responses. Crowell, J.; Nilsenbeck, S.; Penneys, N. Aloe Vera does not affect cutaneous erythema and blood flow 
following ultraviolet B exposure. Photodermatol 1989 Oct, 6 (5). 237-239. Danhof I.E. Potential reversal of chronological and photo-ageing of the skin by topical application 
of natural substances. Phytother Res. 1993. Spec. Issue Proceedings of the International Congress of Phytotherapy, 1991. S53-56. McKeown, E. Anthraquinones and anthracenic derivatives absorb U.V. light. Cosmetics and 
Toiletries. 1987 June. 102. 64-65. Strickland, FM. ; Pelley, R.P; Kripke, M.L. Prevention of ultraviolet radiation induced suppression 
of contact and delayed hypersensitivity of Aloe barbadensis gel extract. J. Invest. Dermatol. 1997 
Feb. 102(2). 197-204. Yagi, A.; Kanbara, T.; Morinobu, N. Inhibition of mushroom-tyrosinase by Aloe extract. Planta Medica. 1987. 53(6). 515-517. A10 
 
 
SECTION VIII - ANTHRAQUINONES 
 The anthraquinones and their derivatives, otherwise known as the phenolic fraction of the plant, are the source of most of the controversy surrounding products that contain them. Should they be present or not? Are they harmful or not? Barbaloin in Aloe Vera is a hydroxyanthraquinone, and the majority of evidence does not suggest that this 
is toxic to man, whereas others containing different chemical sub-groups may be; if taken in large quantities over a long period of time. Even here, the evidence is not conclusive. Andersen, D.C.; Weber, N.D.; Wood, S.G.; Hughes, B.G. ; Murray, B.K. ; North, J.A. In vitro 
virucidal activity of selected anthraquinones and anthraquinone derivatives. Antiviral. Res. 1991. Sep. 16(2). 18596. Anton, R.; Haag-Berrurier, M. Therapeutic use of natural Anthraquinones for other than laxative action. Pharmacology 20 (suppl.1) 104-112. Benigni, R.; Substances with antibiotic action contained in anthraquinonic drugs. Chem. Ab. 1950. 44. 11036. Brown, J.P. A review of the genetic effects of naturally occurring flavonoids, Anthraquinones and related 
compounds. Mutat Res. 1980. 75. 243-277. Capasso, F; Mascolo N.; Autore, G.; Duraccio, M.R. Effect of Indomethacin on Aloin and 1,8 
Dioxianthraquinone-induced Production of Prostaglandins in Rat Isolated Colon. Prostglandins. 1983. 26. 557-562. Che, Q.M; Akoa, T; Hattori, M; Kobashi, K; Namba, T. Isolation of a human intestinal bacterium 
capable of transforming barbaloin to aloeemodin anthrone. Planta Med. 1991 Feb. 57(1). 15-19. Davis, R.H.; Agnew, PS. ; Shapiro, E. Antiarthritic activity of anthraquinones found in Aloe for 
podiatric medicine. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1986. 76(2) 61-66. Davis, R.H.; Leitner, M.G. ; Russo, J M; Byrne, M.E. Anti inflammatory activity of Aloe Vera 
against a spectrum of irritants. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. (US). 1989 June. 79 (6). 263-276. Davis; Kabbani; Maro. Aloe Vera and wound healing. Special emphasis to combination with RNA and Vit. C., consideration of part played by Anthraquinones. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1987. 77(4). 165-169. Fairbaim, J.W. ; Simic, S. The Quantitative Conversion of Barbaloin to Aloe-Emodin and its application 
to the evaluation of Aloes, November 19, 1962 from the Department of Pharmacognosy School of Pharmacy, University of London, Brunswick Square, London, W.C.A. The Journal of Pharmacy and 
Pharmacology. 1963. 15. Grimminger, W.; Witthohn, K. Analytics of senna drugs with regard to the toxocological discussions of 
anthranoids. Pharamacology. 1993 Oct. 47 (Suppl. 1) 98-109. Heidenmann, A.; Volkner, W.; Mengs, V Genotoxicity of Aloe Emodin in vitro and in vivo. Mutat Res. 1996 March. 367 (3). 123-133. Ishii, Y.; Tanizawa, H.; Takino, Y. Studies of Aloe III. Mechanism of cathartic effect. Mechanism of 
action of Aloe-emodin-9-anthrone, decomposition product of barbaloin in causing significant increase in 
water content of the rat large intestine. Chem. Pharm. Bull (Tokyo). 1990 Jan. 38(1). 197-200. Ishii, Y; Tanizawa, H; Takino, Y. Studies of Aloe IV Mechanism of cathartic effect (3), Biol. Pharm. Bull. 1994 Apr. 17(4) 495-497. Ishii, Y.; Tanizawa H.; Takino, Y. Studies of Aloe Vera. Mechanism of cathartic effect (4). Biol. Pharm. Bull. 1994 May. 17(5); 651-653. Koch, A. Investigations of the laxative action of Aloin in the human colon. 41st Annual Congress of the 
Society of Medicinal Plant Research. Dusseldorf, Germany. 1993 Aug 31-Sept 4. Planta Medica. 59 
(Suppl. 7) 1993. Krumbiegel, G; Schutte, H.V. ; Rhein and aloe-Emodin kinetics from senna laxatives in man. Pharmacology. 1993 Oct. 47(Suppl.1) 120124. Mahmoud; Hazem; EI-Sibaie; El-Borollosy; El-Kady. Microbiological studies on the Phyllosphere of the 
desert plant Aloe Vera. Extraction of Anthraquinone-glycosides and Anthraquinone-aglycone from plant 
leaves, tested as anti-microbial substances against 6 pathogenic and non-pathogenic micro-organisms. 1986. Egypt. J. Microbiol. 21(2) 229-238. Malterud, K.C. ; Farbrot, T.L. ; Huse, A.E. ; Sund, R.B. Antioxidant and radical scavenging effects 
of anthraquinones and anthrones. Pharmacology. 1993 Oct. 47 (Supp 1.1) 77-85. Mapp, R.K.; McCarthy, T.J. The assessment of purgative principles in Aloes. Planta Medica. 1970. 18. 361-365. McKeown, E. Anthraquinones and anthracenic derivatives absorb U.V. light. Cosmetics and 
Toiletries. 1987 June. 102. 64-65. Odes, H.S. ; Madar, Z. A double-blind trial of a Celandin, Aloe Vera and Psyllium laxative preparation in 
adult patients with constipation. Digestion. 1991. 49. 65-71. A20 
 
Rauwald, H. W; Voetig, R; 7 hydroxyaloin, the leading substance from Aloe Barbadensis in the European Pharmacologica. Arch Pharm. 1982. 315(5). 477-478. Sendelbach, L.E. A review of the toxicity and carcinogenicity of anthraquinone derivatives. Toxicology. 1989. 57. 227-240. A9 
 Siegers, C.P; Siemers, J.; Barettom, G. Sennosides and Aloin do not promote dimethylhydrazine-
induced tumours in mice. Pharmacology. 1993 Oct. 47 (Suppl. 7) 205-208. Siegers, C.P; von Hertzberg-Lettim, E.; Otte, M.; Schneider, B. Anthranoid laxative abuse - a risk 
for colorectal cancer? Gut. 1993 Aug. 34(8) 1099-1101. Sydiskis, R.J.; Owen; Lohr; Rosler; Blomster. Inactivation of Herpes simplex virus by 
Anthraquinones isolated from plants. J Dental Res. 1989 June. 68. 935. Sydiskis, R.J.; Owen, D.G. ; Lehr, J.L. ; Rasler, K.H. ; Blomster, R.N. Inactivation of enveloped viruses by anthraquinones extracted from plants. Antimicrob-Agents-Chemother. 1991 Dec. 35(12). 2463-2466. Westendorf; Marquardt; Poginsky; Dominiak; Schmidt. Genotoxicity of naturally occurring 
Hydroxyanthraquinones. Evaluation of mutagenicity and cell-transforming activity. Mutat. Res. 1990 Jan. 240(1).1-12. Wolfe, D.; Schmutgte, C.; Westendorf, J.; Marquardt, H. Hydroxyanthraquinones as tumour promoters: 
enhancement of malignant transformation of C3H mouse fibroblasts and growth stimulation of primary 
rat hepatocytes. Cancer Res. (USA). 1990 Oct. 50(20). 6540-6544. SECTION IX - GENERAL REVIEWS 
 
Ahmad, S.; Kalhoro, Z.; Kapadia, Z.; Badar, Y. "Aloe" A biologically active and potential medicinal 
plant. Hamdard. 1993. 36(1). 108-115. A23 
  
 Brown, J.P. A review of the genetic effects of naturally occurring flavonoids, anthraquinones and related 
compounds. Mutat Res. 1980. 75. 243-277. Bruce, W.G.G. Medicinal Properties in the Aloe. Excelsa 5. 1975. 5768. Cole, H.N. ; Chen, K.K. Aloe Vera in oriental dermatology. Archives of Dermatology and Syphilology. 1993. 47. 250. Crewe, J.E.. The External Use of Aloes. Minnesota Medicine. 1937. 20. 670-673. Danhof, I.E. Aloe in cosmetics - does it do anything? Cosmet Toilet. 1987. 102. 62-63. Davis, R.N. Biological activity of Aloe Vera. Seigen, Oele, Fette, Wachse (Germany). 1993 Sept. 119. 646-649. Fischer, J.M. Medical Use of Aloe Products. US Pharm. 1982 Aug. 7. 37-45. Flagg, J. Aloe Vera Gel in Dermatological Preparations. Am Perfum Cosmet. 1959. 74. 27-29. Gjerstad, G.; Riner, TD. Current status of Aloe as a cure-all. American Journal of Pharmacy. 1968. 140. 58-64. Goldberg, H.C. The Aloe Vera Plant. Archives of Dermatology and Syphilology. 1944. 49. 46. Grindlay, D. Aloe Vera. The Garden. Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society. 1985. 110, 534-535. Grindlay, D. Medical use of Aloe Vera. General Practitioner (London). 1985 June. Grindlay, D., Reynolds, T The Aloe Vera Phenomenon: A Review of the Properties and Modern 
Uses of the Leaf Parenchyma Gel. J. Ethnopharmacol. 1986. 16. 117-151. Haller, J.S. A drug for all seasons, medical and pharmacological history of Aloe. Bull. N.Y. Acad. Med. 1990. 66(6). 647-659. A14  
Harendal, B.E. Whole leaf Aloe Vera: almost a panacea. Health Conscious. 1992. 13(1). 14-17. Harrison, J. Aloe in Dentistry. Health Conscious. 1992. 13 (1) 19-24. Klein, AD, Penneys, NS. Aloe Vera. J. of Am. Ac. Derm. 1988. 18(4,1) 714-720. Leung, A. Aloe Vera update: new form questions integrity of old. Drug Cosmet Ind. 1985 Sept. 137-42, 
44-46. Marshall, J.M. Aloe Vera Gel: what is the evidence? The Pharmaceutical Journal. 1990. 360-362. McKeown, E. Aloe Vera. Cosmetics & Toiletries. 1987. 102. 64-65. Natow, A.J. Aloe Vera fiction or fact. Cutis. 1986. 37(2). 106-108. Reynolds, T. The compounds in Aloe leaf exudates: a review. Botanical Journal of the Linnaean Society. 1985. 90. 157-177. Robson, M.C. ; Heggers, J.P.; Hagstrom. W.J. Myth, magic, witchcraft or fact? Aloe Vera revisited. Journal of Burn Care and Rehabilitation. 1982. 3. 157463. Spoerke, D.G. ; Ekims, B.R. Aloe Vera - fact or quackery (medicinal plants). Veterinary and Human 
Toxicology. 1980. 22. 418-429. Tchou, M.T. Aloe Vera (Jelly Leeks) Archives of Dermatology and Syphilology. 1943. 47. 249. Tolbert, T.L. Aloe Vera: past, present and future. Seigen, Oele, Fette, Wachse (Germany). 1997 Jan. 120. 14-18. Tyler, V. Aloe. The Honest Herbal. 25-28. A18 
 
Vogler, B.K. ; Ernst, E. Aloe Vera: A systematic review of its clinical effectiveness. British Journal of 
General Practice 1999, 49, 823-828. SECTION X - WOUND HEALING 
 The paper by J.E. Fulton in 1990 on the effects of Aloe Vera on postdermabrasion wound healing was the 
paper that inspired me to carry out my own research into Aloe Vera. I was intrigued by its conclusion - "the reasons for the accelerated wound healing are unknown"! Virtually all papers show positive results demonstrating Aloe's wound healing potential as it plays a part 
in this complex system. However, there is one important paper that showed a delay in wound healing, that 
of Schmidt and Greenspoon Published in 1991. They applied topical Aloe Vera to post Caesarian wounds with negative results. I first wonder whether the change in hormonal status of these patients interferes 
with the action of Aloe Vera. Barnes, T.C. The healing action of extracts of Aloe Vera leaf on abrasions of human skin. American 
Journal of Botany. 1997. 39. S97. Bishop, J.B.; Philips, L.G. ; Musbore, T.A. et. al. A prospective randomised evaluation - blinded 
trial of two potential wound-healing agents for the treatment of venous stasis ulcers. J. Vasc. Surg. 1992. 16. 251-257. Bradshaw, T.W. Aloe Vera: its influence on the physiology of wound healing and inflammation. J. 
Brit. Pod. Med. 1996. 51(2). 25-29. Davis R.H.; Didonato J.J.; Hartman G.M. ; Haas R.C. Anti-Inflammatory and wound healing activity of a 
growth substance in Aloe Vera. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1984 Feb. 84:. Davis R.H.; Kabbani J.M. ; Maro, N.P. Wound Healing. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1987 April. 77. 4. Davis, R.H.; Leitner, M.G. ; Russo, J.M. ; Byrne, M.E. Wound healing, oral and topical activity of 
Aloe Vera. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1989 Nov, 79(11). 559-562. Davis, R.H.; Parker, W.L. ; Samson, R.T; Murdoch, D.S. Isolation of a stimulatory system in aloe 
extract. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Soc. 1991 Sept. 81(9) 473-477. Davis, R.H. Influence of Aloe on inflammation and wound healing. International Congress of 
Phytotherapy. 1991 Oct. Seoul, Korea. 29. Davis, R.H.; Didonato, J.J.; Hartman, G.M. ; Haas, R.C. Antiinflammatory and wound healing 
activity of a growth substance in Aloe Vera. J. Am. Podiatric. Med. Assoc. 1994 Feb. 84(2). 77-81. Davis, R.H.; Leitner, M.G. ; Russo, J.M. Aloe Vera (A barbadensis). A natural approach for 
treating wounds, edema, and pain in diabetes. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1988. 78(2). 60-68. Davis; Kabbani; Maro. Aloe Vera and wound healing. Special emphasis to combination with RNA 
and Vit. C., consideration of part played by Anthraquinones. J. Am. Podiatric Med. Assoc. 1987. 77(4). 165-169. El Zawahry, M.; Hegarty, M.R. ; Helal, M. Use of Aloe in treating leg ulcers and dermatoses. International J. of Dermatology. 1973. 12. 6873. Fulton, J.E. The stimulation of postdermabrasion wound healing with stabilised Aloe Vera gel-
polyethylene oxide dressing. J. Dermatol Surg. Oncol. 1990 May. 16(5). 460-467. Heggers, J.R; Kucukcelebi, A.; Listengarten, D.; Stabenau, J.; Ko, F; Broemeliing, L.D. ; Robson, M.C. ; Winters, W.D. Beneficial effect of Aloe on wound healing in an excisional wound model. J. of 
Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 1966. 2(2). 271-277. Heggers, JR.; Robson, M.C. Beneficial effects of Aloe in wound healing. International Congress of 
Phytotherapy. 1991 Oct. Seoul, Korea. 27. Heggers, JR.; Pelley, R.P; Robson, M.C. Beneficial effects of Aloe in wound healing. Phytother. Res. 1993. 7. No special issue. S48-52. Heggers, JR.; Winters, W. Aloe and other topical antibacterial agents in wound healing. Aloe Today / Aloecorp. 1993. 8-11. A4 
 
Heggers, JR.; Haussam, E.; Garfield, R. et. al. Effect of the combination of Aloe Vera, nitroglycerin 
and L-NAME on wound healing in the rat excisional model. J. of alternative and Complementary 
Medicine. 1997. 3(2). 149-153. Kaufman, T; Kalderom, N.; Ullmann, Y.; Berger, J. Aloe Vera gel hindered wound healing of 
experimental second-degree burns; a quantitative controlled study. J. Burn Care Rehabil. 1988 
Mar-Apr. 9(2), 156-159. Knight, J.H. ; Stevens, E. Anti-inflammatory and healing properties of Aloe barbadensis. International 
Congress of Phytotherapy 1991 Oct. Seoul, Korea. 31. Martinet, C.; Guardarama, I.; Arcas, E. Preclinical and clinical evaluation of the cicatrizant effects of 
Aloe Barbadensis. Revista Farmaceutica (Argentina). 1993. 135. 101-106. McCauley, R.L. ; Heggers, J.P.; Robson, M.C. Frostbite - methods to minimise tissue loss. Frostbite. 1990. 88(8). 72-77. Miller, M.B. ; Koltai, PJ. Treatment of experimental frostbite with pentoxifylline and Aloe Vera 
cream. Arch. Otolaringol Head Neck Surg. 1995 June. 121(6). 678-680. Morsy, E.M.; Ovaniviski, H. Evaluating the healing characteristics of the exuded mucilage from Aloe 
Barbadensis Miller. J. of Technical Information on botanical and animal active ingredients for the 
cosmetic, perfumery and flavour industries. Special issue on Aloe Vera. 1993 June. 1. 1-80. Plemens, J.M. ; Rees, TD. ; Binnie, W.H.. et al. Evaluation of acemannan in the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Wounds. 1994. 6(2) 40-45. Schmidt, J.M. ; Greenspoon, J.S. Aloe Vera dermal wound gel is associated with a delay in wound 
healing. Obstet, Gynaecol (U.S.) 1991 July. 78(1). 115-117. Sumano Lopez, H.; Camberros, L.B. ; Ocampo, A.A.; De Lepez, H.S. Comparative evaluation of a 
mixture of propolis and Aloe Vera with commercial wound healing products. Veterimarcia Mexico. 1989. 20(4). 408-414. Swain, S,F; Riddell, K.P. ; McGuire, J.A. Effects of topical medications on the healing of open pad 
wounds in dogs. J. of the American Animal Hosp. Assoc. 1992. 28(6). 499-502. Thomlinson, R.H. Kitchen Remedy for Necrotic Malignant Breast Ulcers. Lancet.
The_Essential_Aloe_Vera_by_Peter_Atherton.txt
Summarize the following text section accurately and concisely. Maintain specific details and numerical information, and use anti-repetition mechanisms:

        Aloe Vera is currently grown commercially mainly in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, USA, in the 
Philippines, the Dominican Republic, South Africa, Spain and in Australia. There are several Aloe 
companies marketing a variety of Aloe compounds, some excellent and some I believe are absolutely useless. For any Aloe Vera drink to stand any chance of doing some good, I feel it must contain the 
parenchymatous gel and some sap. Therefore, it must possess a yellow or orange colour due to the sap, 
and taste bitter. If a product is clear, looks like water and tastes like water, then it probably is water. There is a regulatory body based in the USA called the International Aloe Science Council and, amongst 
other things, it evaluates the quality of Aloe products. If such products, according to several criteria, reach 
a standard they are accredited with the IASC seal of approval, as below. This mark of quality can then appear on the container and I suggest that any Aloe product whose company does not display this seal of 
approval rather than just claiming to have it, has to be suspect. I have listed below the various types of Aloe Vera products that may appear on the market, as defined by the IASC: 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 Aloe Vera gel/juice freeze dried - Aloe Vera gel/juice that has been freeze dried with or without a 
matrix. Reconstituted Aloe Vera gel/juice freeze dried - Aloe Vera gel/juice freeze dried to which an 
appropriate amount of water is added to achieve a concentration that is equivalent to 100 per cent Aloe 
Vera gel/juice as defined. Aloe Vera concentrate - Aloe Vera gel/juice from which natural water has been mechanically remove
d 
to a desired level. Reconstituted Aloe Vera gel/juice - Aloe Vera concentrate to which an appropriate amount of water is added to achieve a concentration that is equivalent to 100 per cent Aloe Vera as defined. Aloe Vera beverage - An ingestible product containing a minimum of 50 per cent Aloe Vera juice as 
defined by the reporting procedure adopted by the IASC. Aloe Vera drink - An ingestible product containing more than 10 per cent of Aloe Vera juice as 
defined by the reporting procedure adopted by the IASC. Aloe Vera pulp - The parenchymal tissue and fibre derived from raw Aloe Vera gel/juice. Aloe Vera oil - The lipid (fatty) portion obtained from the rind of the leaves of Aloe Barbadensis 
Miller by various solvent extract processes. Aloe USP - The dried latex of the leaves of Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera Linne), known in 
commerce as Curacao Aloe or Aloe Ferox Miller and hybrids of this species with Aloe Africana 
Miller and Aloe Spicata Baker known in commerce as Cape Aloe (Lilaceae). Aloe Vera latex - The bitter yellow liquid contained in the pericyclic tubules of the rind of Aloe 
Barbadensis Miller including the rind and internal portions of the plant. Cold stabilised Aloe Vera gel, which is my preferred preparation, is about 97 per cent pure and the nearest 
thing that one can get to the natural raw gel extracted from the plant. As I have said, it is extremely safe 
and non-toxic, although when people first start to take the gel it often stirs them up and they may experience a change in bowel habit for a few days, together with slight abdominal discomfort, but this 
generally soon passes. Some people refer to this initial phase as one of detoxification but I think this is a 
misnomer. There is also a method of heat stabilisation, or pasteurisation, but this destroys some of the 
nutrients and enzymes so I believe we must aim to find the nearest thing to the natural, raw gel. Please note that a product containing only 15 per cent Aloe Vera gel by volume can legally be called 100 
per cent Aloe Vera juice. Currently, the main debate centres on the relative benefits of Aloe Vera gel versus whole leaf Aloe. In the production of whole leaf Aloe products, the whole plant is harvested, rather than individual leaves, 
and it is crushed. Solid matter, including the pulverised rind is separated and the resultant fluid is filtered  
 The case for Aloin (Barbaloin) and against filtration 
 
Activated carbon will attract and hold any molecules that have an electrical charge created by a double 
bond of the carbon in the molecule to other atoms. Molecules with an outside double bond are strongl y 
"adsorbed" by carbon filters which means that Aloin and Aloe-emodin both containing such bonds are 
effectively trapped and removed by them. However, a large number of beneficial components in Aloe also 
contain outside double bonds and will be therefore filtered out. Among these are the glycoproteins 
(enzymes), proteins, mineral salts, all essential amino acids, Vitamins 131, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, 
carotene, various fatty acids and salicylic acid. Carbon filters also have an affinity for carbon itsel f 
therefore they may attract organic molecules regardless of their polarity. Polysaccharides are not remove d 
by carbon filtration but many important elements are either completely taken out or their amounts are 
considerably reduced. Why have aloin in a product anyway. When it has been suggested that it may be carcinogenic and produce 
abortions when taken orally, or kill fibroblasts when applied topically. As with many substances, Parcelsus (1500 AD) knew that "the poison is in the dose". Whereas large amounts of aloin or other anthraquinones especially those with an amino or nitro group in them may prove 
harmful over a prolonged period of time; although there is no real evidence to support this, 
 
I believe that in small quantities aloin is actually a beneficial component of Aloe drinks. Aloin by the way, 
possesses hydroxyl groups, rather than the suspect nitro or amino groups. Many, if not most workers in the field now believe that a small amount of aloin <50 ppm in a produc
t 
improves the absorption of the other Aloe elements as well as being an important anti-microbial agen t 
enabling Aloe to regulate the gut flora. Aloin is broken down eventually to form salicylates which are anti-
inflammatory. It may also act as a trigger to the polysaccharides, working synergistically with them to 
enhance their various effects. In topical products aloin and the other anthraquinone derivatives are antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory an d 
also have anti-tyrosinase action, blocking melanin formation. They can also block ultraviolet light when 
applied topically. through carbon filters to remove the excess anthraquinones and, in some cases, all of them. It is often then 
concentrated because a smaller number of plants is required for a given amount of product and there is 
less weight, due to its concentration, so reducing transport costs. The final product is cheaper at retail. It is 
often suggested that it is better because it contains more polysaccharides (coming from the inner rind) 
than the gel/sap only products, but I believe there are flaws in this argument and I would ask the 
following questions:  
Polysaccharides are sugars that have formed a bond with water. What happens to them when water is 
removed during the concentration process. Do they possess the same biochemical qualities when 
reconstituted. Some manufacturers argue that by including the amount of polysaccharides in their 
products they must therefore be more powerful. I do not believe this is to be so because the digestive tract, due to the special way that polysaccharides are absorbed through the pinocytosis, can only handle so 
much, Once absorbed the body can also only utilise so much. The optimum concentration for absorption 
is that found in the natural gel at circa 1000 - 1200 mg/litre. When the fluid is passed through the fine carbon filters during the manufacturing process, could unknown 
and unidentified important elements be filtered out as well. As there is no real evidence for the time being, to support whole leaf Aloe being superior to 100 per cent 
stabilised Aloe Vera gel, I will go for this one. I believe that many of the considerations that go into 
making the whole leaf Aloe are really commercial, to get a cheaper product with a greater profit margin 
into the market place, The choice is yours. ALOE IN THE FUTURE 
 
Since earliest time, Aloe Vera has occupied a prominent place in medicinal folklore of various cultures. In 
small doses it was used as a general tonic and in large doses as a purgative. It was also used to treat 
indigestion, to get rid of intestinal parasites and worms. It was favoured as an insecticide and as an 
antiseptic and, most importantly, as away of healing ulcerated, burnt, infected, lacerated and generally 
damaged skin whether from internal or external causes. The use of Aloe Vera as a beauty aid is rapidly increasing. But why is it not being prescribed more by 
doctors. Perhaps they are not aware of it, and if that is the case I hope this book will go some way to 
promoting thought and further enquiry amongst my colleagues. The main reason has to be the lack of hard evidence, i. e. , evidence that is accepted by the body of the 
profession, be they GPs or specialists - the randomised double-blind clinical trial. This kind of clinical 
trial is the definitive way of assessing whether a new treatment actually works and is superior to other 
treatments. It involves the selected patients to be divided into two groups. One group receives only a 
placebo or another form of treatment and the other group receives the treatment under test. It is essential 
that neither the patient nor the doctor knows which treatment is being prescribed so there can be no bias. Only when the trial is completed are the different treatments revealed and the results analysed. Until recently the documented trials were, regrettably, not of the quality and precision that would win 
over the sceptical, scientifically orientated doctor, especially with the current emphasis of evidence based 
medicine. The overwhelming anecdotal evidence has largely been ignored by regular practitioners, but 
fortunately there are some who have given it a try. I know of a handful of doctors, both in the National Health Service and private sector who now regularly use Aloe in their practices. One small but significant trial was carried out in 1985, by Dr Jeffrey Bland, a nutritionist of the Linus 
Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine in California. He studied the effect of Aloe Vera on the 
gastrointestinal function in normal humans and involved ten volunteers, five of each sex. They changed nothing in their lifestyle but consumed two ounces of Aloe Vera juice three times a day for seven 
consecutive days. Before entering the study the participants fasted overnight so that base line gastric secretion could be 
measured by a pH (level of acidity) sensitive capsule. After their gastric pH was measured, morning stool and urine samples were collected. The object of the experiment was to see if Aloe had any effects on 
these two functions. Dr Bland looked at urinary indican, which reflects the bowel bacterial conversion of 
the amino acid tryptophan and therefore possible improved protein digestion and absorption after Aloe 
Vera treatment. He also looked at stool specific gravity, gastric pH and bowel motility. He found that urinary indican levels after one week on Aloe were lowered, suggesting an increase in both 
protein breakdown and absorption. He also found stool specific gravity was reduced with a faster 
movement of stool through the bowel, both suggesting an increase in water in the stool. No diarrhoea was 
reported. He also found the pH was normalised or buffered, meaning that Aloe Vera acted as an alkalising 
agent. He commented that the Aloe Vera had helped to normalise stool bacterial cultures in six subjects, four of the six having previously had high yeast levels in their gut. In discussing his findings, Jeffrey Bland said: 
  
 The most important trials to appear recently were published by T Syed et al; one on Psoriasis in the 
Journal of Tropical Medicine and International Health and the other on Genital herpes in the Journal of Dermatological treatment. Both fitted the necessary criteria being randomised double blind and controlled and showe
d 
impressive results. They achieved an 83% cure rate with Aloe in Psoriasis against a 6% rate with the 
control. In the Herpes trial there was 66. 7% healing as opposed to 6. 7% with the control. To establish 
the validity beyond doubt these results must be repeated by other workers in other clinical trials 
elsewhere. "The tolerance of the subjects to Aloe Vera juice supplementation was in general quite good. One person 
complained of gas and another of transient gut pain which after continued supplementation throughout the 
week, diminished. The other eight subjects were asymptomatic with no diarrhoea, nausea, intestinal 
bloating or distress. Four of the subjects noted an improved bowel regularity with greater gastrointestinal 
comfort after eating. Three indicated that they felt some enhancement of energy and a sense of well-
being, although this could not be confirmed quantitatively. " It must be noted because the Food and Drugs Administration regard Aloe Vera as a food, the gel in the 
USA must be referred to as juice. Although the scale of this experiment is too small to be of real significance, I believe it does highlight, in a semi-controlled fashion, the experiences that are repeatedly talked of anecdotally and it reinforces the 
need for further investigation on a larger scale. Professor Edzard Ernst, Director of the Centre for Complementary Health Studies at Exeter University 
with whom I have had discussions also feels Aloe should be formally investigated. But, regrettably, clinical trials are expensive and they require willing consultants to undertake them. If a pharmaceutical 
company thought there was money to be made out of Aloe, then funding would be forthcoming, but for 
them it would be pointless as they could never achieve a patent. However, I believe the future of Aloe Vera is rosy because there is a definite move in the community towards natural remedies and the medical profession is beginning to recognise this and slowly adapt. Complementary medicine is undeniably a major growth area. In the UK 15 per cent of non-hospital 
consultations are now with complementary therapists whose numbers have mushroomed from 2,900 in 
1981, to more than 60,000 at the last count. But the UK still lags behind most European countries and the United States, where visits to complementary therapists exceed those to conventional doctors. Recently published in the British Medical Journal, the official organ of the British Medical Association, 
in a series of articles on this change towards complementary and over the counter medicines were some 
most interesting statistics. Market breakdown for major categories of non-prescription medicines: 
 
Pain £196. 4m (16. 7%) 
Skin 2143. 5m (1 1. 3%) 
Cold £93. 9m (7. 4%)  
 Cough £68. 1 m (5. 4%) 
Sore throat £72. 7m (5. 7%) 
Indigestion £73. 9m (5. 8%) 
Total £1268. 5m  
 
Everyday ailments for which people report treating themselves rather than seeking a consultation with a 
doctor: 
 
Ailment  Percentage of people reporting ailment  (n=2000) 
Headache 80 
Athlete's foot 79 
Dandruff 73 
Heartburn 62 
Migraine 62 
Period pain 61 
Colds 60 
Coughs 56 
Mouth ulcers 51 
Acid stomach 50 
 
The article concluded with a comment that has two implications for doctors. If the scope of self-medication widens as predicted, doctors, pharmacists, and other health professionals 
will need to respond in a more active and constructive way than they have to date. (BMJ Vol. 312, 30/3/1996)  
I am encouraged by interest shown in university departments at Oxford, both on the dermatology and 
gastroenterology departments, and there is a reasonable chance that proper trials looking at venous leg 
ulcers and IBS may be conducted there in the near future; watch out for the next edition. Aloe Vera's eponym 'the Medicine Plant' is a fitting one and we must constantly remind ourselves of the 
influence that folklore has had on medicine over the ages and the plants that have provided powerful 
drugs once isolated - opium from the poppy, digitalis from the foxglove, ergot from rye, and aspirin from 
willow bark to name but a few. "Within the infant rind of this weak flower poison hath residence and medicine power. " Romeo and Juliet. In fact, 121 prescription drugs in common use owe their origins to plants, being concocted from 95 
separate plants. Eighty-eight per cent of people in developing countries rely on plant extracts for primary health care. In Africa where the AIDS pandemic is most aggressive and from where Aloe Vera originated, GIFTS OF 
HEALTH (Global Initiative for Traditional Systems of Health), a charitable organisation, is considering a 
project to develop Aloe and educate the people to use it, amongst other things to treat genital herpes. It 
has been shown to be effective against this virus whose lesions often form the portal of entry of the HIV 
virus and so by reducing the effects of genital herpes one can similarly reduce the incidence of AIDS. Most plant species are to be found in rainforests of which 400,000 hectares, or the area of Scotland, are 
disappearing every week so by 2000 AD, 10 per cent of the world's 250,000 species of plant could be 
extinct. I will leave you to ponder on this and suggest the following two quotations: 
 
 
"The Doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the 
human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease". Thomas A Edison 1847-1931 American Inventor 
  
". and above all do no harm. " Hippocrates 
 
 
 
FURTHER READING 
 
 
1. Aloe Vera 
Carole Miller Kent. Arlington, Virginia The Print Factory, 1979 
 
2. Aloe Vera Heals - The Scientific Facts K. Gottlieb. Denver, Colorado. Royal Publications Inc. , 1980 
 
3. The Silent Healer Bill Coats. 1984 
 4. Remarkable Aloe - Aloe through the Ages Ivan E. Danhof PhD. M. D. Omnimedicus Press, 1987 
 
5. Aloe - Myth Magic Medicine Odus M. Hennessee 
Universal Graphics. Lawston O. K. 73502 1990  
6. Aloe Vera The Natural Healer Paul Hornsey-Pennell 
Wordsmith Publishing Company, 1994 
 
7. Aloe Vera - The Inside Story Bill Coats 1995. 8. Aloe Vera - The Health and Healing Plant Ed. Maykut and Marc Schweitzer, 1995 
  
 GLOSSARY 
 
 
Acne 
Skin disease characterised by pustules and cysts especially on the face. Vulgaris - occurring in adolescents and young adults. Rosacea - occurring in middle age and producing redness of nose and cheeks. Amino Acids 
Group of organic nitrogen containing compounds that form the component molecules of proteins. Anthraquinones 
A complex of phenolic substances which can be found in the sap of Aloe Vera acknowledged to have 
both pain killing, antibacterial and viruscidal activity. They also exhibit powerful laxative effects in their 
pure form. Bioflavonoid 
Any of a group of biologically active substances found widely in plants. Also called 'Vitamin P'. Antioxidant 
A group of substances including certain Vitamins, Minerals and Micronutrients which counter the activity 
of free radicals, inhibiting their ability to oxidise. Catalyst 
A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself suffering any permanent chemical 
change. Carbohydrates 
A large group of organic compounds including sugars and starch that contain carbon, hydrogen and 
oxygen. They are a source of food and energy for animals. Candida Albicans 
A yeast like parasite fungus that causes the condition known as 'thrush'. Colitis 
An inflammatory condition of the colon or large bowel. Collagen 
A fibrous protein occurring in bone, cartilage and connective tissue. Crohn's Disease 
An inflammatory disease of the small bowel otherwise called regional ileitis. Dalton 
A unit of measurement named after the British chemist John Dalton (1766-1844). Dermabrasion 
Method of treating scarred skin by surgically removing the damaged epidermis. Diverticulosis 
A condition in which diverticulae in the colon are associated with lower abdominal pain. Dysmotility 
Disorder of movement, causing irregular spasms of the bowel leading to abdominal pain. Eczema 
A non-contagious inflammation of the skin, marked usually by redness, itching and weeping lesions 
which become encrusted and scaly. Usually found in dry skin. Elastin 
A protein that is the principal component of elastic tissue found in the walls of arteries, the dermis of the 
skin and other elastic structures. Enzyme 
Any of the numerous proteins produced by living organisms and functioning as biochemical catalysts. Epithelium 
A layer of cells that covers the body or lines a cavity that connects with it. Fibroblast 
A cell in connective tissue that is responsible for producing fibres and is most important in the healing 
process. Free Radical 
An atom or group of atoms containing at least one unpaired electron, existing for a brief period of time 
before reacting to produce a stable molecule. Immune System 
A series of cells found in the blood, tissues and lymphoid system which protects the body from attack by 
micro-organisms and altered cells such as cancer cells. Irritable Bowel Syndrome 
A functional bowel disorder in which abdominal pain is associated with defecation or change in bowel 
habit or abdominal distension. Lignin 
A complex polymer of cellulose occurring in certain plant cell walls making the plant rigid. When applied 
to the skin in a topical cream it bestows an ability to penetrate, carrying accompanying elements with it. Lymphocyte 
A white blood cell, part of the immune system, found in the blood and lymphoid tissue. Metabolism 
The sum of the chemical processes that occur in living organisms resulting in growth, production of 
energy and elimination of waste, etc. NSAID 
A group of drugs used in the treatment of arthritis, achieving their effect by the inhibition of prostaglandin 
synthesis. All can cause gastrointestinal irritation. Phagocyte 
Cells found in the blood and tissue which can engulf and digest other cells, micro-organisms and other 
foreign bodies. Pinocytosis 
A process whereby microscopic particles are engulfed whole by cells 
 
Placebo 
A substance containing no active drug given to a patient usually to compare its effects with those of a real 
drug. Polysaccharides 
Long chain sugars that form chemical bonds with water to produce mucilaginous and lubricating fluids. Propolis 
A resinous aromatic substance collected by bees from the bark and buds of trees, used to line their hives 
thereby creating a sterile environment. Protein 
Organic compounds of high molecular weight that contain amino acids as their basic structural units. They are essential for the growth and repair of animal tissue. Prostaglandin 
A group of hormone like substances capable of stimulating the smooth muscle of the uterus or that in 
blood vessels. Psoriasis 
A chronic non-contagious skin disease characterised by inflammation and red, scaly patches. It can also 
cause a type of arthritis. Saponins 
Soapy substances, chemically glycosides which provide cleansing and antiseptic properties. Seborrhoea 
A disease of the skin characterised by excessive secretion of greasy material (sebum) leading to the 
formation of oily scales on the skin. Synergism 
The action of two or more substances to achieve an effect greater than the sum of their individual effects. Systemic Lupus Erythematous (S. L. E. or Lupus) 
A chronic inflammatory disease affecting the skin and internal organs. Tinea Pedis 
A fungal disease of the skin of the foot. Urticaria 
An acute or chronic disease of the skin causing intense itchiness associated with red, raised patches often 
associated with an allergic reaction to internal or external agents. Often referred to as 'Hives' or 
'Nettlerash'. PART II 
 
RESEARCH BIBLIOGRAPHY 
 
Please note that when I OCR scanned this book I proofread all of Part 1, but in Part 2, I only proofread 
the explanatory paragraph at the beginning of each new section; I did not proofread all the bibliographic 
references; I just formatted them. Watch out for mistakes. OCR – SCANNER  
The research bibliography has been divided into sections for convenient use. In each section, the papers 
and articles are in alphabetical order by author and in chronological order where an author has written 
more than one paper. Where I consider work to be important, it appears in bold type. The importance 
attached to any work may reflect the subject matter, the calibre of the author or Institution or may just be 
of historical interest. The vast majority of research into Aloe Vera tends to emphasise the positive attributes of the plant but 
there are, as one would expect, some negative ones. Unfortunately, various similar studies involving Aloe preparations do not always produce consistent 
results. This outcome can probably be attributed to variability in the source of the Aloe plants, variability in the production process, or the presence in the preparations of multiple components with varying and 
even opposing biological activities. There is also the tendency to use different vehicles for delivering the 
aloe. Most research carried out to date involves laboratory experiments or experiments with animals. Only a small proportion, describes human clinical trials but this pattern is changing as shown by some of the 
more recent work which looks at Psoriasis, Diabetes Mellitus and Genital Herpes. Very shortly, I hope to be able to add to the clinical trials when I publish work on Aloe Vera in the 
treatment of chronic various leg ulcers and in the Irritable Bowel Syndrome. A short introduction to each section will point out areas of interest, concern or criticism so that the reader 
may quickly locate the required information from the considerable amount of material available. SECTION I - EFFECT ON CELL GROWTH 
 
The effect of Aloe Vera on cells is studied in two areas. (a) What is its effect on the growth of normal 
cells and (b) What is its effect on the growth of preneoplastic or frankly malignant cells. When assessing this effect it is most important to look at which fraction of Aloe Vera is being tested. Is it 
the gel or is it largely the sap or phenolic (anthraquinone) fraction. Their effects are very different; in 
fact, they produce an opposite result. Exposure to the gel stimulates the replication of normal cells, whereas the anthraquinones and their 
derivatives will retard cell growth or may kill them. Both fibroblasts and neuron-like cells have been 
tested and it has been shown that there is a significant increase in proliferation in vitro under the influence 
of gel extracts. Hydroxyanthraquinones, those found in Aloe Vera, have not been found to be carcinogenic, but there is a 
question mark over some of the other members of this chemical group, e. g. where amino or nitro groups 
are involved. These have been shown to produce renal tumours in experimental rats though the effect on 
humans is still inconclusive. The break-down product in humans, Emodin, a phenolic anthraquinone, 
shows limited evidence of toxicity / carcinogenicity in experimental animals. This which is important 
when considering people who abuse laxatives such as Senna or Cascara in which the substances are found. Bouthet, C. F. ; Schirf, V. R. ; Winters, W.
Aloe Vera is currently grown commercially in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, USA, the Philippines, the Dominican Republic, South Africa, Spain, and Australia.
Where is Aloe Vera mainly grown commercially?
The parenchymatous gel and some sap, which gives it a yellow or orange color and a bitter taste.
What are some of the important elements that should be present in an Aloe Vera drink?
The IASC evaluates the quality of Aloe products and accredits products that meet certain criteria with its seal of approval.
What is the role of the International Aloe Science Council (IASC)?
There is a debate about the benefits of using Aloe Vera gel versus whole leaf Aloe, with some companies claiming that whole leaf Aloe is more effective.
What is the controversy surrounding the use of Aloe Vera products?
The main reason is the lack of conclusive evidence and the fact that the medical community is not aware of its potential benefits.
What is the main reason why Aloe Vera is not widely prescribed by doctors?