Aloe vera leaf gel: a review update.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Phytochemistry
• Immunology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Previous research (pre-1986) suggested therapeutic benefits of Aloe vera gel.
• Inflammation treatment is a primary mechanism for Aloe vera's healing effects.
• The complex nature of inflammation suggests multiple therapeutic targets within the gel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize research on Aloe vera gel's therapeutic properties since 1986.
• To explore the immunomodulatory effects of Aloe vera gel components.
• To investigate emerging applications and potential risks of Aloe vera gel.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific papers published post-1986.
• Analysis of studies focusing on gel polysaccharides, particularly acetylated mannans.
• Examination of research on glycoprotein fractions and clinical reports.

Main Results:

• Therapeutic claims from earlier studies are largely validated and extended.
• Aloe vera gel polysaccharides, especially acetylated mannans, exhibit significant immunomodulatory properties.
• Reports indicate antidiabetic, anticancer, and antibiotic activities, alongside potential allergic reactions.

Conclusions:

• Aloe vera gel possesses diverse therapeutic effects, primarily through anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions.
• Further research into specific active ingredients and their precise mechanisms is warranted.
• Potential for wider clinical applications exists, with a need for standardized, dosable formulations.