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Dietary supplement

Aloe Vera Gels Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by NOW

Softgel Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Aloe Vera Gels is a dietary supplement by NOW with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for minor burns and skin irritation, wound healing, constipation.Based on those ingredients, 461 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Aloe Vera. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Aloe Vera Gels by NOW

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This softgel contains one active ingredient: aloe vera. The product also includes inactive ingredients — organic extra virgin olive oil, silica, and the softgel capsule material itself.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed

This product doesn't appear to be marketed for a specific use, so we graded Aloe's overall clinical evidence instead.

Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports Aloe for:

Why this rating?
  • We looked at the product name, claims, and label statements and couldn't find a stated purpose to grade.
  • Since the label doesn't commit to one use, we graded the ingredient's overall clinical evidence instead.
  • On file: Acne — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Burns — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Constipation — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Diabetes — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Obesity — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).

Aloe vera is possibly effective for acne, obesity, diabetes, psoriasis, burns, and constipation, according to the evidence we hold. That means there's some research support, but it's not yet conclusive for any of these uses.

If you're considering it for one of these reasons, ask us whether the research fits your situation.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Aloe

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Oral aloe products are generally well tolerated at typical doses, but the latex form — which can be in these gels depending on processing — carries more risk, especially with long-term use or high doses. You may experience abdominal pain, cramps, or diarrhea.

Serious side effects from overuse include severe potassium loss, muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, and pigment spots in your intestines. The safety data advises against taking aloe by mouth during pregnancy because it may stimulate the uterus and act as a strong laxative.

The same goes for breastfeeding — there isn't enough safety data and the laxative effects are a concern.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Aloe

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

At least one ingredient has a documented Major-severity interaction. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Aloe.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications.
  • For scale: 461 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, double-check if you're on digoxin (a heart medication) — that's the most serious interaction. Also flag any blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, diabetes medications, diuretics, stimulant laxatives, warfarin, or certain drugs your liver metabolizes quickly.

Your pharmacist can search your exact medications on this page.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Aloe vera gels may help with certain skin conditions and digestion if you use them short-term at normal doses. But they're not for everyone — especially if you take heart, blood-thinning, diabetes, or water-pill medications.

Talk to your pharmacist about your specific prescriptions before starting.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Aug 23, 2019.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Aloe Vera Gels, straight from the product label.

Brand NOW
Barcode (UPC) 733739030313
Net contents 250 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Aug 23, 2019
DSLD ID 205832
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Softgel Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Gluten Free, Dairy Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Aloe Vera Gels by NOW, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Softgel(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Softgel(s)
Servings per container
125
UPC/BARCODE
733739030313
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories5 Calorie(s)--
Total Fat0.5 Gram(s)1%
Aloe Vera100 mg--

Other ingredients: organic extra virgin Olive Oil, Softgel Capsule, Silica

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Usage: Take 2 softgels 1 to 2 times daily, on an empty stomach.

Formula

NOW Aloe Vera Gels deliver the natural nutrient profile found in Genuine Whole Foods.

Aloe Vera offers a variety of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids. Aloe Vera’s constituent mucopolysaccharides, also known as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), are thought to be its active components. Scientific studies have indicated that Aloe can help to support the body’s own healing processes. In addition, Aloe Vera has been shown to support a healthy digestive system.

Triangle K

Contains Gelatin

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Precautions

Caution: For adults only.

Consult physician if pregnant/nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

Keep out of reach of children.

Not manufactured with yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, corn, milk, egg, fish or shellfish ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.

General Statements

Natural color variation may occur in this product. Naturally occurring particulates may be visible in the aloe vera.

Supports digestive health

10,000 mg equivalency per softgel Supports the body’s healing process

General Health

Family owned since 1968.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place after opening.

Formulation

Non-GMO

Not manufactured with yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, corn, milk, egg, fish or shellfish ingredients.

Seals/Symbols

Non-GMO

Triangle K

GMP Quality Assured

FDA Statement of Identity

A Dietary Supplement

See for yourself

Aloe Vera Gels by NOW label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Aloe Vera Gels by NOW

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Softgel(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule Servings per container125 Amounts shown are per serving.

Aloe Vera

Interacts with
461 drugs
100 mg per serving

Aloe vera gel is widely used on the skin for minor burns and irritation, and some research suggests it may help. Aloe latex (the yellow part) is a str...

Aloe Vera monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Organic extra virgin Olive Oil, Softgel Capsule, Silica. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Aloe Vera Gels by NOW Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Aloe Vera Gels?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
461Drugs
1 Major 304 Moderate 156 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Aloe Vera 461

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Aloe Vera Gels with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Aloe Vera7 drug types · 461 drugs

Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with cardiac glycosides.
Overuse of aloe latex can increase the risk of adverse effects from cardiac glycoside drugs, such as digoxin, due to potassium depletion. Overuse of aloe, along with cardiac glycoside drugs, can increase the risk of toxicity.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, aloe gel might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that aloe gel can inhibit platelet aggregation. This inhibition was greater than that seen with celecoxib, but less than that seen with aspirin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Aloe might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Preliminary clinical research suggests aloe gel might lower blood glucose levels and have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs. Monitor blood glucose levels closely.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Overuse of aloe latex might compound diuretic-induced potassium loss, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Stimulant Laxatives

Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Due to cathartic laxative effects of aloe latex, concomitant use with other stimulant laxatives might compound fluid and electrolyte loss.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin.
Aloe latex has stimulant laxative effects. In some people aloe latex can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. Advise patients who take warfarin not to take excessive amounts of aloe vera.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, aloe might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that aloe extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Aloe Vera Gels, from the product label.

NOW

See all NOW products
Name
NOW Foods
Street Address
395 S. Glen Ellyn Rd.
City
Bloomingdale
State
IL
ZipCode
60108
Web Address
nowfoods.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Aloe Vera Gels by NOW: Common Questions

Does Aloe Vera Gels by NOW interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Aloe Vera Gels has a known interaction with 461 medications, including 1 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Aloe Vera Gels contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
The safety data advises against it. Oral aloe may stimulate your uterus and act as a strong laxative during pregnancy, and there isn't enough safety information for breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what's right for your situation.
What are the most common side effects?
Oral aloe most often causes abdominal pain, cramps, and diarrhea. Topical application can cause burning, redness, or itching. Long-term or high-dose use raises the risk of more serious effects like severe potassium loss and irregular heartbeat.
How long is it safe to take this product?
The facts we have focus on the risks of long-term or overuse of oral aloe latex. For how long you should take it, talk to your pharmacist — it depends on why you're using it and your personal health.
Will this help my constipation?
Aloe vera is possibly effective for constipation, meaning there's some research behind it, but it's not conclusive. Because of its laxative effect and the risk of serious side effects with overuse, it's worth discussing with us whether it's the right choice for you.
Is aloe gel different from aloe latex?
Yes — aloe gel is the clear substance inside the leaf and is generally well tolerated. Aloe latex is the yellow substance under the leaf skin and carries much more risk of serious side effects, especially with oral use. These softgels may contain either or both depending on how they're processed, so ask us which form this product uses.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Aloe Vera Gels is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Aloe Vera Gels label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Aloe Vera Gels’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Aloe Vera Gels's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 41 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Aloe 41 references
  1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  2. Wichtl MW. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. Ed. N.M. Bisset. Stuttgart: Medpharm GmbH Scientific Publishers, 1994.
  3. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  4. Nusko G, Schneider B, Schneider I, et al. Anthranoid laxative use is not a risk factor for colorectal neoplasia: results of a prospective case control study. Gut 2000;46:651-5. PubMed
  5. Luyckx VA, Ballantine R, Claeys M, et al. Herbal remedy-associated acute renal failure secondary to Cape aloes. Am J Kidney Dis 2002;39:E13. PubMed
  6. Rajasekaran S, Sivagnanam K, Ravi K, Subramanian S. Hypoglycemic effect of Aloe vera gel on streptozotocin-induced diabetes in experimental rats. J Med Food 2004;7:61-6.
  7. Williams MS, Burk M, Loprinzi CL, et al. Phase III double-blind evaluation of an aloe vera gel as a prophylactic agent for radiation-induced skin toxicity. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 1996;36:345-9. PubMed
  8. Vogler BK, Ernst E. Aloe vera: a systematic review of its clinical effectiveness. Br J Gen Pract 1999;49:823-8.
  9. Bottenberg MM, Wall GC, Harvey RL, Habib S. Oral aloe vera-induced hepatitis. Ann Pharmacother 2007;41:1740-3. PubMed
  10. Rabe C, Musch A, Schirmacher P, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by an Aloe vera preparation: a case report. World J Gastroenterol 2005;11:303-4. PubMed
  11. Kanat O, Ozet A, Ataergin S. Aloe vera-induced acute toxic hepatitis in a healthy young man. Eur J Int Med 2006;17:589. PubMed
  12. Mueller SO, Stopper H. Characterization of the genotoxicity of anthraquinones in mammalian cells. Biochim Biophys Acta 1999;1428:406-14. PubMed
  13. Schorkhuber M, Richter M, Dutter A, et al. Effect of anthraquinone laxatives on the proliferation and urokinase secretion of normal, premalignant and malignant colonic epithelial cells. Eur J Cancer 1998;34:1091-8. PubMed
  14. Yang HN, Kim DJ, Kim YM, et al. Aloe-induced toxic hepatitis. J Korean Med Sci 2010;25:492-5. PubMed
  15. Choonhakarn C, Busaracome P, Sripanidkulchai B, et al. A prospective, randomized clinical trial comparing topical aloe vera with 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide in mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. J.Eur.Acad.Dermatol.Venereol. 2010;24:168-72. PubMed
  16. Ishii Y, Tanizawa H, Takino Y. Studies of aloe. IV. Mechanism of cathartic effect. (3). Biol Pharm Bull. 1994;17:495-7. PubMed
  17. Ishii Y, Tanizawa H, Takino Y. Studies of aloe. V. Mechanism of cathartic effect. (4). Biol Pharm Bull. 1994;17:651-3. PubMed
  18. Nelemans FA. Clinical and toxicological aspects of anthraquinone laxatives. Pharmacology. 1976;14 Suppl 1:73-7. PubMed
  19. Paulsen E, Korsholm L, Brandrup F. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of a commercial Aloe vera gel in the treatment of slight to moderate psoriasis vulgaris. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2005;19:326-31.
  20. Huseini HF, Kianbakht S, Hajiaghaee R, et al. Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hypercholesterolemic effects of Aloe vera leaf gel in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Planta Med. 2012;78:311-6
  21. Ferreira, M., Teixeira, M., Silva, E., and Selores, M. Allergic contact dermatitis to Aloe vera. Contact Dermatitis 2007;57(4):278-279.
  22. Choonhakarn, C., Busaracome, P., Sripanidkulchai, B., and Sarakarn, P. The efficacy of aloe vera gel in the treatment of oral lichen planus: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Dermatol 2008;158(3):573-577. PubMed
  23. Baretta, Z., Ghiotto, C., Marino, D., and Jirillo, A. Aloe-induced hypokalemia in a patient with breast cancer during chemotherapy. Ann.Oncol. 2009;20(8):1445-1446. PubMed
  24. Hunter, D. and Frumkin, A. Adverse reactions to vitamin E and aloe vera preparations after dermabrasion and chemical peel. Cutis 1991;47(3):193-196.
  25. Alvarez-Perea, A., Garcia, A. P., Hernandez, A. L., de, Barrio M., and Baeza, M. L. Urticaria due to aloe vera: a new sensitizer? Ann.Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2010;105(5):404-405. PubMed
  26. Hogan, D. J. Widespread dermatitis after topical treatment of chronic leg ulcers and stasis dermatitis. CMAJ. 2-15-1988;138(4):336-338.
  27. Savchak VI. Acute bullous allergic dermatitis due to local application of aloe leaves. Vestnik Dermatologii i Venerologii 1977;12:44-45.
  28. Nakamura, T. and Kotajima, S. Contact dermatitis from aloe arborescens. Contact Dermatitis 1984;11(1):51. PubMed
  29. Shoji, A. Contact dermatitis to Aloe arborescens. Contact Dermatitis 1982;8(3):164-167. PubMed
  30. Morrow, D. M., Rapaport, M. J., and Strick, R. A. Hypersensitivity to aloe. Arch Dermatol. 1980;116(9):1064-1065. DOI
  31. Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Final report on the safety assessment of AloeAndongensis Extract, Aloe Andongensis Leaf Juice,aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Juice, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Protoplasts, Aloe Barbadensis Flower E
  32. Bhalang K, Thunyakitpisal P, Rungsirisatean N. Acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe vera, is effective in the treatment of oral aphthous ulceration. J Altern Complement Med 2013;19(5):429-34.
  33. Hajheydari Z, Saeedi M, Morteza-Semnani K, Soltani A. Effect of Aloe vera topical gel combined with tretinoin in treatment of mild and moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind, prospective trial. J Dermatolog Treat 2014;25(2):123-9.
  34. Jiménez-Encarnación E, Ríos G, Muñoz-Mirabal A, Vilá LM. Euforia-induced acute hepatitis in a patient with scleroderma. BMJ Case Rep 2012;2012. PubMed
  35. Lee J, Lee MS, Nam KW. Acute toxic hepatitis caused by an aloe vera preparation in a young patient: a case report with a literature review. Korean J Gastroenterol 2014;64(1):54-8. PubMed
  36. Guo X, Mei N. Aloe Vera - A Review of Toxicity and Adverse Clinical Effects. J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev 2016;34(2):77-96.
  37. Hoogenboom TCH, Patel N, Cook NA, Williams R, Taylor-Robinson SD, Lim AKP. The effect of Aloe vera juice on liver enzymes and hepatic structure in a healthy population. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2020;19(3):30-4.
  38. Mushtaq S, Mushtaq Z, Sarfraz J, et al. Comparison of effect of aloe vera gel with aspirin and celecoxib on platelet aggregation. Professional Med J. 2020; 27(5):973-978. DOI
  39. Haron MH, Dale O, Martin K, et al. Evaluation of the Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Commonly Used Botanicals on the US Market with Regard to PXR- and AhR-Mediated Influences on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. J Diet Suppl 2022. PubMed
  40. Sabbaghzadegan S, Soltani MH, Kamalinejad M, Bahrami M, Kabir A, Dadmehr M. The effect of a standardized capsule of Aloe vera gel on the quality of life in patients with systolic heart failure: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.
  41. Lewis ED, Crowley DC, Guthrie N, Evans M. Healthy adults supplemented with a nutraceutical formulation containing Aloe vera gel, rosemary and Poria cocos enhances the effect of influenza vaccination in a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PubMed

See these in context on the Aloe monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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