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Aloe vera has become very popular in recent times for its many claimed health benefits. It is an easy-to-grow household plant, though it is native to the hot and dry areas of North Africa, the Middle East, and the Southern Mediterranean.
It has spiky leaves that contain a colorless gel, which offers many benefits. (1)
The gel contains several compounds including vitamins minerals, enzymes, sugars, fats, hormones, and antioxidants. It has been used topically and ingested for its benefits such as reducing cholesterol, reducing blood sugar, and fighting cancer. (1)
Aloe Vera for Women
Aloe vera is commonly consumed as a juice and is believed to be beneficial for female health and periods.
1. Manages menstrual disorders
Menstrual disorders are common problems globally. In South Asian countries, aloe vera juice made from its leaves and gel is used to treat amenorrhea (the absence of periods). (2)
Oral consumption of aloe vera juice is also used to treat dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and oligomenorrhea (inconsistent or irregular periods). (2)
In India, aloe vera is used to manage tension headaches and lower abdominal pain. (3) So if you experience headaches during your periods, drinking aloe vera juice may be beneficial.
2. Balances lipid levels in women with PCOS
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common problem faced by women in many regions worldwide. It is often accompanied by other changes in the body such as dyslipidemia (altered cholesterol levels). (4)
In animal studies, aloe vera gel was effective in reducing cholesterol and LDL levels (bad cholesterol) with an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol levels. It also resolved irregularity of periods, thus showing that it is a useful remedy in the management of PCOS. (5)
3. Improves glucose tolerance in women with PCOS
PCOS also impairs glucose tolerance in those suffering from it. The altered glucose tolerance can also lead to type 2 diabetes when unmanaged. (6)
Aloe vera consumption has been shown to improve glucose tolerance in animal studies. It contains blood glucose-lowering agents, although more research is needed on this topic. (7)
Other Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice Consumption for Women
Aloe vera juice also has other health benefits for women with PCOS and irregular menstruation.
Antioxidants are said to improve glucose tolerance and as well as increase follicular maturation to manage irregular periods. (8) In PCOS, there is an increase in inflammation in the body that can further worsen irregular periods by misbalancing hormones. (9)
Aloe vera juice possesses both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is therefore beneficial in managing periods. (7)
How to Make Aloe Vera Juice at Home
As mentioned above, aloe vera is easy to grow and maintain. It requires a few hours of sunlight and watering only once or twice a week. The leaves can be harvested for their gel.
The juice can be made at home by blending 2 tbsp of aloe vera gel along with 1 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional). Honey can be added to improve flavor.
Most-Asked Questions
Can aloe vera be consumed daily?
One serving of aloe vera juice can be safely taken daily.
Who should avoid aloe vera juice?
Pregnant and lactating women should avoid consuming aloe juice.
Can aloe vera juice affect hormones?
Some studies have shown aloe vera juice contains compounds that can increase estrogen levels. Adequate estrogen levels can further help in regulating periods and improving overall female health. However, the effect is mild can will not raise estrogen levels to the point where it may be harmful.
Will aloe vera help hormonal acne?
Aloe vera is known to be beneficial for acne and is a potent antibacterial. However, topical application is better than consuming its juice. You may need the support of medicated creams in the case of severe acne.
Final Word
Aloe vera is used as a popular medicine for treating many conditions as it contains beneficial components.
Common menstruation disorders such as irregular periods, absent periods, painful periods, or PCOS, which also includes altered blood cholesterol levels and impaired glucose tolerance, can all be improved with the consumption of aloe vera juice.
Care should be taken, however, not to consume aloe vera juice when pregnant or lactating as it may cause uterine contractions.
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