Overview

Aloe is a plant that makes two substances used in healthcare products. They are clear gel and yellow latex.

People mainly put aloe's clear gel on skin to treat burns, the skin condition psoriasis and even acne. Some also take the gel by mouth to treat certain conditions. Some people take aloe latex, a laxative, by mouth to treat trouble passing stool, called constipation.

Aloe gel is generally safe when used as suggested. But taking aloe latex by mouth may not be safe. In fact, taking 1 gram a day of aloe latex for a few days can cause kidney damage and might be fatal.