How the medicinal properties of aloe vera make it indispensable in medicine, cosmetics and food products

In a recent review article published in the journal Foods, researchers from Italy and Portugal examined the various biological activities of Aloe vera (AV), highlighting its potential for cosmetic and medicinal applications. AV is a versatile plant with numerous beneficial properties that thrives in hot, dry regions. Due to its pharmacological properties, it is widely used in traditional medicine and has earned the title of "miracle plant".

The conclusions of the review show that AV has significant health benefits including antiviral, antimicrobial and antidepressant properties, which offer promising therapeutic avenues for the treatment of various diseases such as skin disorders and prediabetes. In addition, AV has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immunomodulatory, anticonstipative, antioxidant, antiulcer, anti-irritant and anticancer properties, making it a comprehensive natural remedy for many health problems. However, toxicity issues, especially when AV is taken orally, need to be considered to ensure its safe use.

Antiviral and antimicrobial properties of AV

AV in various forms offers several medicinal benefits for various health conditions. It has potent anti-inflammatory properties, with its extracts demonstrating effects comparable or superior to conventional anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac. AV helps stabilize cell membranes, inhibit protein denaturation, and regulate inflammation-related genes. In addition, AV extracts are rich in compounds such as polyphenols, indoles, and alkaloids, which have strong antioxidant effects, reducing free radicals and protecting cells.

AV also exhibits significant antibacterial activity against harmful bacteria, including those that cause gastric ulcers and tuberculosis. Its antibacterial properties are attributed to compounds such as p-coumaric acid, ascorbic acid, pyrocatechol, and cinnamic acid. The antibacterial properties can be enhanced when combined with nanoparticles. Moreover, AV gel is effective against fungi, especially Candida species, by inhibiting their growth and preventing the formation of germ tubes necessary for fungal virulence. Studies have shown that AV can inhibit the growth of several Candida species, including Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida krusei. In terms of antiparasitic benefits, AV extracts and nanoparticles are effective against mosquitoes and parasites, showing promise in the treatment of malaria and leishmaniasis.

The antiviral properties of AV are also noteworthy, as it inhibits the replication of viruses such as influenza, herpes simplex virus, and potentially the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Studies have demonstrated the ability of AV to reduce viral replication and plaque formation in various cell cultures. AV can be used topically to treat cold sores and treat food surfaces to prevent viral infections. Overall, it is a versatile natural remedy with a wide range of health benefits.

AV in the treatment of diseases and disorders

AV plays a significant role in the treatment of various diseases and disorders. Its immunomodulatory activity helps enhance immune responses and reduce symptoms in conditions such as multiple sclerosis and diabetes. Studies have shown that AV can significantly reduce the clinical signs of autoimmune encephalomyelitis and delay the onset of the disease in animal models. In cancer treatment, AV has shown potential to induce cancer cell death and enhance the effects of chemotherapy, especially in breast and lung cancer. AV has been found to induce apoptosis in cancer cells and enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents. As a radioprotective agent, AV helps protect against radiation damage, improves antioxidant status, and supports tissue regeneration.

In hepatoprotection and renoprotection, AV protects liver and kidney tissues from toxins and oxidative stress, promoting detoxification and reducing inflammation. Studies have demonstrated protective effects of AV against various hepatotoxins and nephrotoxins in experimental models. It also offers cardioprotective benefits, protecting the heart from drug-induced toxicity and improving cardiac tissue health.

For skin disorders, AV is effective in wound healing, hydration, and treatment of conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and frostbite. Studies support AV's ability to accelerate wound healing, reduce erythema, and improve skin integrity. In dentistry, AV, when used in rinses, can reduce gingival indices, caries, and plaque.

In gastrointestinal disorders, the laxative properties of AV help with constipation, and its soothing effects help manage reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. It has prebiotic properties and can be used to preserve probiotic yogurts. In addition, AV shows promise in the management of metabolic and endocrine diseases, including diabetes, by improving glucose and lipid metabolism. Its multifunctional therapeutic properties make it a valuable natural remedy for a wide range of health problems.

Due to its moisturizing and soothing properties, AV is widely used in cosmetics, including soaps, sunscreens, anti-aging products, and moisturizers. It is also used in non-alcoholic hand sanitizers due to its hygroscopic and healing properties. In the food industry, AV gel acts as a natural preservative and edible coating on fruits and vegetables, increasing shelf life by reducing ripening and maintaining quality due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.

However, AV-based products have certain disadvantages. The high demand for AV gel products generates a significant amount of waste from AV processing. This waste is often disposed of in landfills or used as fertilizer, but sustainable management strategies are being developed, such as converting it into animal feed, biofuels or natural polymers. Research on the valorization of AV by-products, such as AV flowers, shows the potential to produce bioactive compounds with additional beneficial properties.

Toxicity concerns arise from some of the active compounds in AV, which have been associated with liver and kidney damage and genotoxicity. Numerous cases of acute liver injury caused by AV have been reported, highlighting the need for caution, especially in patients with existing medical conditions or taking hepatotoxic drugs. Despite its benefits, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, more research is needed to fully understand the health effects of AV and manage its toxic potential.

In conclusion, AV is a remarkable plant with a wide range of beneficial properties and applications in medicine, cosmetics and food industry. However, its potential toxicity, especially when taken orally, highlights the need for further research and careful consideration of its use.