How safe is aloe vera for children?
The aloe vera plant is made up of a yellow sticky substance that protects the clear white aloe gel. The yellow substance contains anthraquinones which are strongly purgative and laxative, and hence is not meant to be ingested. Therefore it is important to buy a good quality aloe vera product, since an inefficient manufacturing process could lead to aloe products with trace amounts of this yellow substance. Many people do not know the difference between the yellow and clear parts of aloe vera, and simply club them together to say it is generally discouraged for infants.
However, when using a product that carefully separates the yellow part from the clear gel, aloe can be good for children, 2 years old and above, in a lot of ways. Children generally have weaker and still developing immune systems, hence they tend to get sick easier than adults do. Aloe gel has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, which is why it has often been recommended for regular intake.
Also, aloe can help regulate bowel movement and acts as a gentle laxative (unlike forceful herbs like Senna), making it easier and less painful for children to go to the toilet. This is particularly significant for children with constipation or those just learning to be potty trained.
A child, 2-12 years of age, can take a safe dosage of aloe supplements, at 2-3 tablespoons for aloe liquids such as medicine or digestion aids. Aloe juices, meanwhile, could be mixed with water, sugar and even other fruit juices such as guava, to dissipate the taste and lower the concentration.
In any case, however, if you are uncertain, consult your pediatrician. They will know your child’s history and will be able to recommend if it is the right time to take natural herbal supplements.
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