Wow, am I ever confused with all the conflicting information on Aloe Vera Juice on the Internet. I've been researching NON-STOP, and I came across a Dr. Standley, who is highly credentialed. I wanted to find medical advice from highly educated professionals as opposed to solely health enthusiasts who might not necessarily be educated in medicine, but rather their own personal experiences. I'm copying a Q&A between an Aloe Vera user and Dr. Standley's medical expertise. Take note---that this expert not only is educated but also is an advocate of holistic/natural healing, so I believe I may have found the perfect source:

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.

Your comments are appreciated.

Sarah