You can argue about its taste, but you can’t afford to overlook the internal and external natural remedial benefits of aloe vera juice.

Emmy Ntamanga, a Kigali-based nutrition consultant, explains that aloe vera juice keeps your liver healthy. Aloe vera juice is perfect for the liver because it is rich in phytonutrients (natural compounds found in plant foods such as vegetables, fruit, whole grain products and legumes.)

With daily aloe vera juice consumption, say goodbye to digestive disorders; like, poor digestion, constipation, acidity, and gas, he adds.

For those with a poor appetite, Ntamanga emphasises that all you need is a glass of aloe vera juice as it boosts the appetite and most of all, curbs weight gain.

"Aloe vera juice can’t be undermined for its purpose of detoxifying your body by removing the pollutants, and aid in fighting against free radicals,” he says.

Dieudonne Bukaba, a nutritionist at Avega Clinic Remera, says aloe vera juice is known for reducing the frequency and appearance of acne. However, it may also help diminish skin conditions, such as, psoriasis and dermatitis.

He further says that aloe vera juice may also assist in lessening irritation in the stomach and intestines, and, may solve irritably bowel syndrome, among other inflammatory disorders of the intestines.

Bukaba further adds that aloe vera juice contains 9.1 grams of vitamin C, which is a natural antioxidant that supports in fighting irritation.

"Aloe vera juice also helps in several blood-related issues, like blood circulation, high blood pressure, sugars, inflammation, bruising, and low immunity, and it lowers the occurrence of stomach ulcers,” he says.

He explains that aloe vera juice also boosts the body’s immunity and relieves heartburn, stimulates insulin production and prevents high triglycerides (a type of fat or lipid found in the blood).

Why pregnant women should take aloe vera juice

Bukaba notes that if suggested by a doctor, then aloe vera juice is okay for pregnant women as it is rich in vitamins and minerals — no wonder it is recommended as a supplement during pregnancy.

He adds that aloe vera juice acts as a comforting agent for the linings of the stomach and helps with morning sickness.

"Aloe vera juice during pregnancy helps open the blood vessels and increases blood circulation,” he says.

Caution for expectant mothers

However, it might not always be suitable for expectant women as health experts state that the latex in aloe vera can cause an unusual heart rate, leading to an imbalance in the blood pressure, and abdominal pains or cramps, especially if consumed in quantities higher than what is originally suggested.

Ntamanga also notes that latex can be the root cause of diarrhoea in infants because it can easily be shifted to the babies through breastmilk.

He adds that aloe vera is identified to increase the risk of uterine contractions which can be risky during pregnancy. Aloe vera juice affects and lowers the blood glucose level, hence, escalating the chances of dizziness and loss of balance.

Hair remedy

Bukaba explains that aloe vera juice contains proteolytic enzymes that stop dead skin blockage hair follicles that hinder new hair growth. Also, the alkaline in aloe vera juice balances the pH level of the hair, thus stimulating healthy new growth.

Additionally, Ntamanga says that aloe vera juice helps in preserving a smooth, glowing skin and promotes hair growth. It can be used as a moisturising proxy for the skin and the scalp.

He also notes that aloe vera juice contains enzymes and anti-inflammatory properties that smoothen and nourishes an itchy scalp. The enzymes add moisture and have protective properties that assist the scalp in fighting dandruff.

Can it help diabetic patients?

Research suggests that aloe vera juice or supplements could have a number of possible benefits for people with diabetes, for instance, in lowering fasting blood glucose levels. Regularly taking aloe vera stirs the secretion of insulin, which is particularly useful for people suffering from diabetes.

Heart health

Ntamanga also points out that drinking aloe vera juice in the morning assists in the healthy functioning of the heart. This is through lowering cholesterol levels and cleansing the blood of impurities, hence creating a healthy growth of new blood cells. In the end, creating a healthy heart.