How to Use Aloe Vera to Treat Constipation

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If you're struggling with constipation, you're probably willing to try just about anything to alleviate your discomfort. While it's true that aloe has long been used as a folk remedy to relieve constipation, it's not considered a safe remedy. Taking aloe latex can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Taking aloe orally has also been linked to serious health conditions like kidney damage and cancer, and it may negatively interact with some medications. [1] In short, there are other approaches that are probably safer. [2] If you do decide to use aloe vera to treat your constipation, take it in very small quantities and don't use it for more than a week.

Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Aloe as a Remedy

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Aloe may be sold either as a juice or in capsule form. Drinking aloe juice is likely the safest option—if you buy it as a prepared beverage, it's likely been filtered to remove aloin, which is the compound that causes stomach irritation and possibly cancer. [3] However, it's also part of why aloe acts as a laxative, so the juice may not be quite as effective as aloe latex capsules, which do contain aloin. [4] However, it may not be safe to take the capsules.

  1. Aloe juice is sometimes sold in health food stores with other plant-based drinks like coconut water. When you drink it, it may have a mild laxative effect, so you might get some relief from your constipation. Just make sure you choose a drink that's labeled as aloin-free, which means it's been filtered to remove the compound that can irritate your stomach. [5]
    • There's no set amount of aloe juice to drink for constipation or any time-table for how often you should take it. If you do drink aloe juice, start with a small serving, then wait several hours to ensure you don't experience any negative side effects.
  2. Aloe that's sold in capsule form may be made from either the latex (the green leafy part of the plant that acts as a laxative) or the whole leaf. Either way, these tend to be stronger than aloe juice—anywhere from 10-100 times stronger. [6] These capsules could cause serious health problems, though, so you're probably better off choosing a safer remedy for your constipation. [7]
    • If you do choose to take aloe capsules, start with the smallest dose recommended on the packaging, and never take more than the maximum recommended dose.
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  3. If you take aloe for even a few days, it could lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage or even death. If you're taking aloe and your constipation lasts longer than a week, talk to your doctor or try a different remedy. [8]
    • Also, don't take more than 1g of aloe in a single day, as higher doses increase your risk of developing health problems.
    • Don't give aloe vera orally to children who are under the age of 12.
  4. If you're currently under treatment for any condition, talk to your doctor before you take aloe for constipation. Taking aloe can increase the side effects or decrease the effectiveness of any oral medications. There are also some specific medications that aloe might have negative interactions with, including: [9]
    • Anticoagulants—both anticoagulants and aloe can slow blood clotting
    • Digoxin—may decrease your potassium, increasing the side effects of Digoxin
    • Warfarin—could lead to risk of bleeding
    • Diabetes drugs—could increase your risk of hypoglycemia
    • Sevoflurane (an anesthetic)—could increase your risk of severe bleeding during surgery
    • Stimulant laxatives—may overstimulate your bowels
    • Water pills—could lead to severe dehydration and decreased potassium levels
  5. Aloe vera can cause stomach pain and diarrhea. These may improve on their own, but if they become severe, or if you're vomiting or you experience seizures, call your doctor or visit the emergency room. [10]
    • Aloe may also lead to low potassium. If your potassium is low, you might have muscle cramps, and in severe cases you might experience paralysis, an abnormal heartbeat, or kidney damage. [11]
    • Also watch for symptoms of liver damage, which may include jaundice, severe abdominal pain, and dark urine. You might also notice that you bruise easily. [12]
    • If your constipation causes you to have severe pain or if you notice blood in your stool, go to the emergency room right away. [13]
  6. In some cases, you might have conditions that make it even more dangerous to use aloe vera for constipation. For instance, you may be allergic to aloe if you're allergic to plants from the Liliaceae family, including garlic, onions, or tulips. In that case, you shouldn't use aloe topically or orally. Also, don't take aloe vera orally if: [14]
    • You are pregnant, as it could cause your baby to develop birth defects or could even lead to a loss of pregnancy.
    • If you have renal or cardiac disease, as dehydration can lead to low potassium and other health complications.
  7. If you want to try a remedy similar to aloe, consider taking cascara or senna supplements instead. They're from the same family, but the side effects typically aren't as harsh. [15]
    • Cascara is usually sold in tablet form. Take 300 mg once a day, and do not take it for longer than 6 days. [16]
    • Senna is sold as tablets and chewable tablets, as well as in liquid and powder form. Dosing will depend on the type of senna you choose. [17]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Foods that May Ease Constipation

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If you're experiencing constipation, one of the easiest things you can do is to make changes to what you're eating and drinking. Increasing your fluid intake is really important, as this will help soften your stool. Eating high-fiber foods (especially in combination with increased fluids) will also help bulk up your stool, making it easier for you to pass it. [18]

  1. Everyone's fluid needs are different, but in general, women need about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) and men need about 15.5 cups (2.7 liters) each day. If you're being active—or if you're already drinking this much and you're still constipated—you might need to drink even more. [19]
    • Water and fruit juices—especially pear, white grape, and prune juice—are best for helping relieve constipation. [20]
    • Warm beverages can sometimes help ease constipation. Try drinking a cup of coffee or hot tea first thing in the morning to help get your bowels moving. [21]
    • A little caffeine can be helpful, but too much can make it harder to go. Also, limit how much alcohol you drink, as it can dehydrate you. [22]
  2. The natural sugar and fiber in fruits can help you have a bowel movement. If the fruit you're eating has a skin on it (like apples), be sure not to peel it—there's a lot of fiber there that you don't want to miss out on!
    • A few good options include apples, strawberries, figs, raising, and pears. [23]
    • It's not just an old wives' tale—prunes really can help you go! They have a lot of fiber and sugar, which can help bulk up your stool. [24]
  3. In addition to all of their other health benefits, nuts and seeds are high in fiber. Grab a handful of your favorite snacks to help naturally relieve your constipation. [25]
    • Try unsalted peanuts, almonds, or walnuts, for instance, or snack on some pumpkin, chia, or sunflower seeds. [26]
  4. Veggies are a great source of natural fiber. Leafy greens are especially helpful when you're constipated, but there are tons of other options as well. At every meal, make sure you include a serving of something like: [27]
    • Brussels sprouts
    • Peas
    • Beans
    • Broccoli
    • Sweet potato
  5. When it comes to fiber, it doesn't get much better than whole grains. Just make sure to avoid refined carbs and foods that are high in sugar, can actually make the problem worse. Some good options include: [28]
  6. Eat 2–3 US tbsp (30–44 ml) of soybean, safflower, or vegetable oil each day. That will help lubricate your bowels, which can help make it easier to pass a stool. [31]
    • You can just take the oil by the spoonful, or if you prefer, you could mix it with some herbs and lemon juice and use it as a salad dressing. That's a great way to get those leafy greens—and you can use some veggies, nuts, and seeds as salad toppings, too!
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Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Lifestyle Remedies for Constipation Relief

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In addition to changing your diet, there are a few things you can do each day that might help ease and prevent constipation. Try to make each of these part of your daily routine to help boost your overall digestive health.

  1. Even if you're feeling sluggish and bloated, do your best to get active. If all you can manage is a walk around the block, do that! Physical activity can help get your bowels moving again, which may help you pass your stool. [32]
    • In general, try to get about 30 minutes of physical activity each day.
    • Dancing, swimming, and light cardio can also help.
  2. Try to eat at the same time each day. When you eat, it naturally stimulates your bowels. If you get into a normal eating routine, it might make it easier to go to the bathroom at the same time each day, as well. [33]
    • Sometimes, it's easier to pass a bowel movement right after you eat, so consider having your breakfast a little earlier each day—that way, you won't be rushed if you need to go in the morning.
  3. When you're going number two, try sitting slightly forward like you're crouching over the toilet. This is a more natural position that can help relax your bowel muscles so you don't have to strain as hard. [34]
    • If that's not comfortable, prop your feet on a small stool so your knees are lifted up above hip level.
  4. Try to make it a habit to go to the bathroom at the same time every day. Even if you don't think you have to go, sit on the toilet for a few minutes to see if you have the urge. Over time, this can help you train your body to have a bowel movement at the same time each day—which ultimately will make it easier to go. [35]
    • Never ignore the urge when you have to go to the bathroom. The longer the stool is in your intestines, the harder it will be to go later on. [36]
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Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Proven Remedies

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If you've tried a few natural remedies and you're still struggling with constipation, consider taking an over-the-counter laxative. These are generally safe to use, but it's best to start with milder options, like fiber supplements or osmotics, before moving to stimulant laxative.

  1. If you're not getting enough fiber in your diet, try taking a fiber supplement. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, which can make it easier to pass. [37] Fiber supplements are typically safe to use every day, so they're a good option if you experience chronic constipation. [38]
    • Opt for a supplement with mostly insoluble fiber, which is more likely to ease constipation without causing gas and bloating.
    • Fiber supplements with methylcellulose are mainly made with insoluble fiber. Supplements with psyllium husk contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, and may also be a good option.
  2. Stool softeners make it easier for water to mix into your stool. This can help make it easier to have a bowel movement without straining. This is a fairly gentle option, as it doesn't actually affect your digestive tract, so it's a good idea to try this before you try laxatives. [39]
    • Over time, it's possible to develop a tolerance to stool softeners, so you may need to use a higher dose. However, they're generally safe to use over long periods of time.
    • Stool softeners are typically available over-the-counter. They commonly include the active ingredient docusate sodium.
  3. Lubricant laxatives coat your intestines in an oily substance. This helps the stool slide out more easily, and it usually works in just a few hours. [40]
    • Mineral oil is a well-known lubricant laxative.
    • Don't take these for more than a week at a time, as it could lead to vitamin deficiencies.
    • Lubricant laxatives can affect how some medicines are absorbed, so talk to your doctor before you take them if you're being treated for any conditions. Also, it's not safe for women who are pregnant.
  4. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into your intestines, which helps soften your stool. Eventually, this will make it easier to go. [41] However, you may need to be patient: it can sometimes take 2-3 days for osmotic laxatives to work. [42]
    • These can sometimes cause mild side effects like bloating, nausea, and gas. [43]
    • They may also lead to dehydration, since they draw water from other parts of your body. [44]
    • Citrate salts and magnesium are examples of osmotics.
  5. Stimulant laxatives are fairly strong—they work by causing the muscles in your digestive system to contract, which can help push out your stool. They usually work in about 6-12 hours. [45] However, since they're strong, they should only be used if no other treatments have worked, and only with the approval of your doctor. [46]
    • Don't take stimulant laxatives long-term. They can cause your colon to stop functioning correctly, which can lead to a dependence on the laxatives.
    • Don't take stimulant laxatives if you're pregnant.
    • Castor oil, senna, and bisacodyl are stimulant laxatives.
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Medical Takeaways

Taking aloe latex is not considered a safe way to relieve constipation. Drinking aloe juice with the aloin removed is likely safe in moderate amounts, but it may not be effective. The safest way to treat constipation is to make changes to your diet and lifestyle, such as by drinking more water, eating more fiber, and getting active. If those don't work, fiber supplements and stool softeners may be effective. If not, laxatives may be a good option.

Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    Can you boil an aloe leaf and drink its juice?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    There is some disagreement with herbalists on boiling aloe leaves. Some feel that it destroys some of the nutrients and laxative components while others do not feel that it would destroy those components as long as you heat on low and don't actually let the mixture boil. Use a small amount of water and add the aloe vera leaves as finely chopped pieces.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    What can I do if I have chronic constipation?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    Follow the recommendations given in this article and make certain you have at least 30-50 g of fiber every day.  Drink lots and lots of water.  If none of this works, take this article along with any other methods that you have tried with you and make an appointment with your doctor.  Chronic constipation can sometimes be associated with other conditions and may need to be checked.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 7 Helpful 18
  • Question
    Where can I purchase 900 mg of aloe vera in capsule form?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    Most commercial products come in 500mg, though some come in other dosage.  You may have to used two 450 mg capsules to get 900 mg.  Another option is to contact the company to see if they can custom produce a 900 mg form.
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      • Although it was approved at one time, aloe vera is no longer recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration as a safe treatment for constipation. [47]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      2. ↑ https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-are-the-benefits-of-drinking-aloe-juice/
      3. ↑ https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-are-the-benefits-of-drinking-aloe-juice/
      4. ↑ https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/aloe/index.cfm
      5. ↑ https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-are-the-benefits-of-drinking-aloe-juice/
      6. ↑ https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/aloe/index.cfm
      7. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      8. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      9. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      1. ↑ https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/aloe-vera
      2. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17740-low-potassium-levels-in-your-blood-hypokalemia
      3. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/liver-problems/symptoms-causes/syc-20374502
      4. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-know-when-constipation-is-an-emergency/
      5. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92765/
      6. ↑ https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/condition/constipation
      7. ↑ https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=19&contentid=CascaraSagrada
      8. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/senna-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20406012
      9. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/natural-ways-to-relieve-constipation
      10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
      11. ↑ https://www.unitypoint.org/article.aspx?id=886a96bf-a6bb-4b48-b6ea-a45c8feda144
      12. ↑ https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/constipation-relief.html
      13. ↑ https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tv3916spec
      14. ↑ https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/digestive-health/nutrition-tips-for-relieving-constipation
      15. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/
      16. ↑ https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/constipation-relief.html
      17. ↑ https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/digestive-health/nutrition-tips-for-relieving-constipation
      18. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/natural-ways-to-relieve-constipation
      19. ↑ https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/digestive-health/nutrition-tips-for-relieving-constipation
      20. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/natural-ways-to-relieve-constipation
      21. ↑ https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/constipation-relief.html
      22. ↑ https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Constipation/
      23. ↑ https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/constipation-relief.html
      24. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/constipation.html
      25. ↑ https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/constipation-relief.html
      26. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/natural-ways-to-relieve-constipation
      27. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/
      28. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/tips-to-avoid-constipation
      29. ↑ https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-whats-the-best-way-to-boost-your-fiber-intake/
      30. ↑ https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/treating-constipation-with-laxatives/
      31. ↑ https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/treating-constipation-with-laxatives/
      32. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/tips-to-avoid-constipation
      33. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laxatives/
      34. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/tips-to-avoid-constipation
      35. ↑ https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/treating-constipation-with-laxatives/
      36. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laxatives/
      37. ↑ https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/treating-constipation-with-laxatives/
      38. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92765/
      39. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      40. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      41. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      42. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
      43. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92765/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      You can use aloe vera to treat constipation by taking it as a juice, a gel, or in capsule form. However, it can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain, so see your doctor if your constipation lasts longer than 2 weeks, or your symptoms get worse. To take aloe vera juice, try mixing 2 cups of aloe juice with 2 cups of cool water and drinking it once in the morning and once at night. If you prefer the aloe gel, you can add 2 tablespoons of the gel to a glass of cool water and drink it in the morning and in the evening. For aloe capsules, check the packaging for the recommended dosage. To learn how to use aloe vera safely from our Medical co-author, keep reading!

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