Aloe Vera

Inner leaf gel contains acemannan (acetylated mannose polysaccharide) with immunomodulatory properties demonstrated primarily in vitro and animal models — oral bioavailability in humans is poorly characterized. Small, low-quality RCTs show potential benefits for IBS symptom relief and blood glucose reduction in type 2 diabetes. A few small RCTs suggest oral aloe sterols may improve skin hydration. Whole-leaf preparations contain anthraquinones (aloin) with strong laxative effects and potential genotoxicity (NTP 2013 bioassay) — inner gel extracts are preferred. Topical wound healing is better supported than oral supplementation.