The Benefits and Risks of Aloe Vera for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Q: The Benefits and Risks of Aloe Vera for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Dear Min Min / 42 / Online User： Hello, 1. You are a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and osteomyelitis (post-surgery). After the surgery, your inflammatory markers remained around 1 for six months, but increased to 2.2 after July. Before the surgery, the marke

What are the benefits of aloe vera?

Hello Director Lin! I am a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and osteomyelitis (post-surgery).
After the surgery, my inflammatory markers remained at around 1 for six months, but after July, they increased to 2.2.
Before the surgery, my markers spiked to 9, which is why I had to undergo joint replacement.
I would like to ask about the effects of aloe vera.
What are its advantages and disadvantages? Since my inflammatory markers are quite high and Western medicine has not been able to control them, I came across a post on the Lohas Nutritionist website stating that "the polysaccharides in aloe vera can enhance immunity, combat viral infections, and promote wound healing." Is this true? I am hesitant to apply it on my surgical wound, but I can apply it on normal skin.
Is that acceptable? Most importantly, "can it lower my inflammatory markers?" I have aloe vera plants at home; can I dilute it for drinking? Or is it better to apply it on my joints? Would that be suitable for me? Thank you!

Min Min, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/08/09

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Min Min / 42 / Online User:
Hello,
1.
You are a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and osteomyelitis (post-surgery).
After the surgery, your inflammatory markers remained around 1 for six months, but increased to 2.2 after July.
Before the surgery, the markers spiked to 9, which is why you underwent joint replacement.
Currently, your issue is more related to osteomyelitis than rheumatoid arthritis.
Although rheumatoid arthritis is difficult to eradicate and is a lifelong condition, the elevated inflammatory markers are primarily due to osteomyelitis.
Western medicine requires the use of antibiotics to enhance treatment efficacy.
2.
There are over 300 species of aloe vera, widely cultivated as ornamental plants, but only a few have medicinal properties.
The evidence for aloe vera's effectiveness in wound healing is limited and contradictory.
3.
I recommend that you seek a qualified practitioner of both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine to diagnose and treat your osteomyelitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
In clinical practice, many Traditional Chinese Medicine herbs that clear heat and detoxify can be used in conjunction with Western treatments, but it is essential to find a qualified TCM practitioner for diagnosis and treatment.
4.
I do not recommend that you use your home-grown aloe vera for direct dilution or application on your joints.
This is inappropriate and incorrect.
Seeking a physician for diagnosis and treatment is the right approach; relying on hearsay can lead to misunderstandings.
Finally, I wish you well.
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung, PhD
Director, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Feng Yuan Hospital
Assistant Professor, Hungkuang University

Reply Date: 2011/08/09

More Info

Aloe vera, a succulent plant known for its medicinal properties, has garnered attention for its potential benefits in managing various health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and a history of bone inflammation, it’s essential to understand both the benefits and risks associated with using aloe vera in your treatment regimen.

Benefits of Aloe Vera for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Aloe vera contains compounds such as anthraquinones and polysaccharides, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. These properties may help reduce inflammation in the joints, potentially alleviating some symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

2. Immune System Support: The polysaccharides found in aloe vera, particularly acemannan, are believed to enhance immune function. This could be beneficial for RA patients, as the disease involves an autoimmune response where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's tissues.

3. Wound Healing: Aloe vera is well-known for its ability to promote wound healing. If you have surgical wounds from your joint replacement, applying aloe vera topically may help in the healing process, although it’s crucial to ensure that the wound is closed and not infected before application.

4. Digestive Health: Aloe vera juice is often consumed for its digestive benefits. Improved gut health can indirectly support overall health, including the inflammatory response, which may be beneficial for RA patients.

Risks and Considerations
1. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to aloe vera, which can manifest as skin irritation or gastrointestinal upset. It’s advisable to perform a patch test before applying it to larger areas of skin.

2. Interactions with Medications: Aloe vera may interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect blood sugar levels or anticoagulants. If you are on medications for rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions, consult your healthcare provider before incorporating aloe vera into your regimen.

3. Quality Control: The quality of aloe vera products can vary significantly. It’s essential to choose high-quality, reputable brands to ensure that you are receiving a product that is safe and effective.

4. Potential for Laxative Effects: Aloe vera latex, which is derived from the inner leaf, can have strong laxative effects and may lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances if consumed in large quantities. It’s crucial to use the gel or juice form rather than the latex for therapeutic purposes.

Application and Consumption
Regarding your question about using aloe vera directly from your garden, it is generally safe to consume the gel from the leaves after proper preparation. You can cut the leaf, scoop out the clear gel, and dilute it with water to drink. However, ensure that you are not consuming the yellow latex, which can cause adverse effects.

For topical application, you can apply the gel directly to your skin, including areas around your joints, as long as there are no open wounds. This can help soothe the skin and may provide some relief from inflammation.

Conclusion
While aloe vera has potential benefits for managing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it is not a substitute for conventional medical treatments. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about any complementary therapies you wish to explore. They can help you assess the appropriateness of aloe vera in your treatment plan, considering your specific health needs and medication regimen. Always prioritize safety and efficacy when integrating new treatments into your healthcare routine.

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