Aloe Vera(Aloe vera): Aloe is such a widely used ingredient in cosmetics (hand lotions, shaving creams, etc.), it is considered a mainstream cosmetic product and many people do not realize that it is a medicinal herb. Aloe gel is used externally on the skin primarily for its emollient (skin softening) property.

Another use for aloe comes from the latex of the leaf. Aloe latex is recognized as a safe and effective laxative ingredient by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) as well as a number of European countries. For example, in Germany, aloe latex is employed as a stimulant laxative. Normal precautions regarding stimulant laxatives apply to aloe. Like other stimulant laxatives, anthraquinone-containing (a plant-based, organic compound) purgatives like aloe need to be used for the short-term only and not during pregnancy or lactation. Long-term use or misuse may also cause an electrolyte imbalance, resulting in depletion of potassium salts and thus may adversely affect heart function.¹⁴ Keep in mind that these warnings are for aloe latex used as a laxative, not the aloe gel orjuice commonly consumed by health enthusiasts for "inner cleansing."