IF YOU HAVE A HEALTH QUESTION Health questions are now only answered over the phone. 314.420.5099 [Read more e-mails here!]

Dear Dr. Standley: (Bleeding and Aloe Vera Juice)

Three days ago I was told to take Aloe Vera Juice (Lilley of the Valley brand)

Although I've never taken such, due to the fact I've suffered GastroIntestinal - Acid Reflux for the past few weeks. The dosage was only 1/3 of glass. I began bleeding as if I had my monthly cycle all over again, which I just had 2 weeks ago. It's Monday the 21st of March and I still am bleeding, not heavy -- what should I do?

No Name Please

Dear No Name Please:

Thank you for the e-mail.

1. Who "told" you to take it?

2. How old are you?

3. Were you taking this Aloe Vera Juice "specifically for" the gastro-intestinal issues?

A Bazillion Blessings~ Dr. Standley

FOLLOW-UP Dear Dr. Standley: (Bleeding and Aloe Vera Juice)

I am 33 years old, and was recommended by a Nutrition center in NY.

I was using it for just a cleansing of my system.

No Name Please

FOLLOW-UP Dear No Name Please:

You said in your original e-mail to me: "I've suffered GastroIntestinal - Acid Reflux for the past few weeks."

Aloe Vera SHOULD NEVER be used by ANYONE suffering from a gastrointestinal complaint. The Nutrition center in NY should have given you this information before you purchased it OR it should have been posted on the label to alert you.

On my website I have the potential side effects listed of Aloe Vera which is below:

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: DO NOT take Aloe Vera if you are pregnant or if you have any gastro-intestinal disorders. May cause allergic reactions, cramping or diarrhea. If taken internally as a purgative, it may cause a hemorrhage. DO NOT exceed recommended dosages. If taken as a laxative in excess, it could lead to irritation of the bowels or ulcers. DO NOT give internally to children or the elderly without a physician's recommendation. When used as a topical, deep wounds should be treated by a professional healthcare provider.

Please note that if taken internally as a purgative, it may cause a hemorrhage.

My suggestion is to discontinue use of Aloe Vera immediately and consult your physician. Please do not be afraid to share with your physician what you have taken.

The link to the Aloe Vera page on my website is listed below:

http://www.drstandley.com/herbs_aloe_vera.shtml

I hope this helps you. Write me anytime.

A Bazillion Blessings~ Dr. Standley

[ back to top ]

---

DISCLAIMER

**This web site's goal is to provide you with information that may be useful in attaining optimal health. Nothing in it is meant as a prescription or as medical advice. You should check with your physician before implementing any changes in your exercise or lifestyle habits, especially if you have physical problems or are taking medications of any kind.