Learn all about Aloe Vera

Aloe vera works through many ingredients acting together. Complex sugars ('polysaccharides') like acemannan affect the immune system, helping activate defence cells. For skin, sugary proteins ('glycoproteins') help wounds heal faster by making cells grow and move, while other factors encourage skin cells to make more collagen (a key skin protein). Aloe reduces inflammation by blocking certain body pathways that trigger it. For digestion, its slimy ('mucilaginous') sugars coat and protect irritated gut linings. Certain compounds ('anthraquinones', mainly in the latex) speed up gut movement ('motility'). It might also act as food ('prebiotic') for good gut bacteria. Antioxidant parts like flavonoids fight harmful molecules ('free radicals'). Its ability to help lower blood sugar seems linked to helping insulin work better and possibly reducing sugar absorption from the gut.

Aloe vera comes from the Aloe barbadensis plant. The clear inner leaf gel is most used for medicine. The yellow liquid ('latex') just under the skin contains strong laxative compounds ('anthraquinones') and is used differently. While many types of aloe exist, Aloe barbadensis is most common. You don't usually eat aloe as food, but drinks are sold. Quality of products varies based on how they're made, which plant parts are used, and if other things ('adulterants') are added. Look for products standardized for specific ingredients if possible.