Phytochemistry, health benefits and toxicological profile of aloe

Abstract

Aloe is a perennial succulent of Liliaceae family and long been recognised for diverse medicinal preparations, extraction of drug and flavouring liquors. The exact origin of Aloe is uncertain, but is mainly grown in relatively warm and dry climate Two major products derived from the leaves are the yellow bitter juice consisting of aloin and the gel rich in polysaccharides. It also includes vitamins, enzymes, anthraquinones/anthrones, chromones and many other primary as well as secondary metabolites. These are extensively used as active ingredients in laxative and in anti-obesity medicines, as emollient or wound healer in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. Many tribals have their own indigenous formulations from Aloe species to manage various ailments since ages. However, in spite of scores of beneficial role, sometimes a few chemicals present in Aloe make the products toxic which, of course, depends on the source, locality, person to be used, etc. The present study extensively reviews the phytochemistry, multi-dimensional health benefits and toxicological profile of Aloe species.