Asphodelaceae
Aloe Ferox
Aloe ferox
⚠ Use with Caution
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: South Africa
Also known as: Cape Aloe, Bitter Aloe, Red Aloe, Tap Aloe
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Parts Used
LeafLatex
Therapeutic Uses
Constipation (powerful stimulant laxative — stronger than A. vera), skin conditions (gel), wound healing. More potent than common aloe vera for laxative use.
Herbal Actions
Strong laxative (latex), vulnerary (gel), anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
Active Constituents
Aloin (20-30% — higher than A. barbadensis), emodin, aloe-emodin, chrysophanol, barbaloin, mucilage polysaccharides
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule🧴 Salve/Balm
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | NOT recommended — very strong, difficult to dose |
| Tincture | Cape aloe extract: 20–40mg aloin for laxative. Standardized capsules only. |
| Notes | MUCH stronger laxative than Aloe vera — high aloin content. Standardized preparations only. Maximum 10-day courses. Must distinguish from gel (topical, safe) and latex (strong laxative, oral use limited). |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Latex: avoid in pregnancy, IBD, intestinal obstruction, children under 12. Maximum 10 days. Avoid with cardiac glycosides, diuretics.
Side Effects: Severe diarrhea and cramping. Hypokalemia. Discoloration of colon. Gel: very safe topically.