Aloe Vera Capsules

Aloe vera juice is a popular way of getting the plants benefits, but it isn't always convenient to take it in this way. Aloe vera capsules offer an excellent - and in some cases more effective - alternative, and can easily be used both at home and when you're travelling.

Another advantage of aloe vera capsules is that they are tasteless - unlike pure aloe vera gel, which many find to taste quite unpleasant, or aloe vera drinks, which have often been diluted to the point of ineffectiveness, and adulterated with sweeteners and other flavourings to make them palatable.

Capsules generally have a long shelf life, making them a particularly good choice for those who just use aloe vera intermittently. They also don't need to be refrigerated.

Aloe vera capsules are also easy to use - they are often easy for people who have trouble swallowing tablets, and you also have the option of opening up the capsule and dissolving the powder into a drink.

Capsules can even be used topically - just open one up, mix the powder with a cream or some oil (coconut oil is especially good for the skin), and apply directly to the skin for a soothing effect.

So - not only can aloe vera capsules be used as they are, they can also be used to make drinks and topical applications - and so can substitute for aloe vera juices, gels and other products too. This versatility makes them very convenient, especially if you're travelling!

There are various aloe vera capsules on the market, all of which claim to produce good results - so how do you know which to choose? Here are some points to consider:

What quantity of active ingredients does the product contain?
Much of aloe vera's potency comes from the presence of a variety of polysaccharides (sugars), particularly mannan. In order for the product to work, these must be present in sufficient quantities.

What are the ingredients?
Check for the presence of unnecessary additives such as preservatives, stabilisers, colourings etc. These are often present in aloe vera juices and drinks, so avoiding them is another good reason to use capsules, especially for those who are allergic to such substances.

Capsules may contain flow agents (which enable the powder to be encapsulated in consistent quantities). Look for those like Aloeride® which uses inert agents that do not have any effect on the body.

Does it contain laxatives?
Part of the aloe vera leaves contain laxative substances (anthraquinones), and some products contain these also. Unless you are looking for a laxative, it is best to use capsules and other products in which the laxative agent has been filtered out.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as medical advice. You should always do your own research, and obtain professional advice if you are ill.