Aloe vera can protect against radiation, remove formaldehyde, and even repel mosquitoes... Many white-collar workers like to place a pot of it next to their computer in the office or at home to absorb radiation and remove formaldehyde. Recently, aloe vera was approved by national authorities as a new food resource, which has made many white-collar workers enthusiastic about harvesting their own grown aloe vera to make drinks, cook dishes, or create face masks, aiming to boost immunity, detoxify and promote bowel movements, and enhance beauty.
However, reporters have learned that it is not uncommon for people to have adverse reactions from self-growing and self-harvesting aloe vera due to the mistaken belief that it can beautify, detoxify, and promote bowel movements. "Although there are many varieties of aloe vera, only one is currently edible," said Associate Professor Zhao Hua from the National Light Industry Quality Supervision and Inspection Center for Aloe Vera Products. There are many aloe vera varieties on the market, but health departments have only listed Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) gel as a new food resource, making it edible. Some varieties of aloe vera, if mistakenly ingested, can cause poisoning and even endanger life.
Even for edible aloe vera, improper consumption or external use can harm health. Regarding this, Associate Professor Zhao Hua analyzed that some white-collar workers, when making homemade aloe vera drinks, put the entire aloe leaf, skin and all, directly into a juicer. As a result, the "yellow juice" between the aloe leaf skin and the aloe vera gel (the semi-transparent substance in the latter part of the leaf), known as "aloin," is not properly removed, which can easily cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, some people may experience irritation or allergic reactions when applying fresh aloe leaves directly to their face. "When consuming aloe vera, moderation is key!" Associate Professor Zhao Hua reminds the public to pay attention to controlling the intake amount. It is recommended that each person consume no more than 30 grams per day. For example, the added amount in aloe yogurt is 2.5%, which means one should not drink more than four or five cups a day.
Furthermore, aloe vera has a cooling nature and is considered a bitter and cold substance. Experts believe that individuals with a weak constitution or a cold spleen and stomach should consume it with caution. Children, pregnant women, and women during their menstrual period should avoid consuming fresh aloe vera.