Aloe vera is used to treat a wide variety of internal and external conditions, and has two important roles that can help prevent and fight yeast infections: natural antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, and the ability to increase white blood cells to fight infections.

Benefits

Studies have shown that aloe vera juice may help increase white blood cells, which kill infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other harmful organisms including yeast. The Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology journal published an article in 2011 which found aloe vera significantly increased macrophages, the type of white blood cells that fight yeast infections. Research has also suggested that aloe vera contains natural fungicidal properties. A 2011 study conducted by All India Institute of Medical Sciences found that a purified protein from aloe vera leaf gel had potent anti-fungal activities.

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Side-Effects

Aloe vera is generally considered safe, however, aloe vera may interact with certain medications, including prescription drugs and natural remedies for diabetes, digestion, and heart. Insufficient research has been conducted for safe use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or usage in young children.

Some individuals may have allergic reactions to aloe vera, particularly those who are allergic to onions, garlic, and tulips. To test for an allergy to aloe, apply a small amount of gel behind your ear or near your underarm. If any stinging or rash emerges after a couple of minutes, discontinue use. Make sure that the aloe vera gel is free from preservatives or other ingredients that may cause skin irritations.

Taken internally, aloe vera may cause stomach upset and have a negative laxative effect if the juice or gel blend is from the whole leaf. These formulas contain aloin, the amber sap in the outer aloe leaf, which is known to cause gastrointestinal irritation. If you have digestive concerns, take inner leaf aloe vera juice or gel to avoid aloin. If undergoing a colonoscopy, do not drink aloe for at least one month beforehand.

Dosage

For external yeast infections, apply aloe vera gel to the infected area 3-5 times per day. For internal consumption, drink 4-6 ounces of inner fillet aloe per day to help fight excessive yeast, or 1-2 ounces per day for maintenance. Aloe vera suppositories are also available for vaginal yeast infections. Follow directions on the label if using suppositories.

Other Uses

Aloe vera is perhaps best known for applying directly on the skin to help soothe and heal sunburns, but can also aid in healing and reducing symptoms for: acne, bruises, bug bites, eczema, minor burns, minor cuts, poison ivy, and other injuries or irritations on the skin.

Aloe vera is used internally for its anti-inflammatory properties and to support a healthy immune system, aid digestion, and heal intestinal issues and colon-related problems such as rectal itching and hemorrhoids. In 2012, research published in Planta Medica demonstrated that aloe vera may help lower blood glucose in type 2 diabetes, as well as reducing LDL cholesterol levels.

FAQ

Can aloe vera cause yeast infections?

Research has not linked aloe vera to causing yeast infections.

How to apply aloe vera if you have yeast infection?

Please see section on dosage on top.

For what type of yeast infection is it good?

While most studies on aloe vera have only been conducted on Candida albicans, aloe has immune-strengthening benefits which strengthen white blood cells that fight off every form of invasive and excessive yeast.

Is aloe vera also good for male yeast infection?

Yes. Aloe vera strengthens white cell blood count which in turn can fight harmful fungi, including different forms of yeast. Studies have also found that natural fugicidal attributes in aloe vera can help fight Candida albicans, a form of yeast infection which includes intestinal yeast and thrush.

Is it good for baby yeast infection?

Pure aloe vera juice or gel can be used topically on babies for diaper rash, however, there is insufficient research regarding the safety of using aloe vera on babies and young children. I have known many parents who use 1tsp aloe vera juice to aid in their toddler’s digestive support without side effects, but before administering aloe vera to a child, ensure they are not allergic (see side-effects), and only give small amounts.

Can it help with nail/skin infection?

Yes, aloe vera is used for a variety of topical treatments and has anti-fungal properties for both internal and external use.

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Is aloe vera juice also good?

Studies have researched both aloe vera gel and juice for health benefits and found that both forms of aloe vera can yield positive results in treating health problems. Aloe vera juice often contains aloin, a questionable ingredient that may cause digestive upset for some people. If you have a sensitive stomach or compromised colon, use aloe vera juice or gel that is from the inner leaf only.