​Aloe Vera may improve glycemic control in prediabetes
(type 2 diabetes)

Adults with prediabetes assigned aloe vera supplements saw improvement in fasting
plasma glucose, and those with type 2 diabetes saw improvement in HbA1c,
according to a recent meta-analysis.

Researchers analyzed eight randomized clinical trials involving 470 patients
conducted through January 2016 comparing the effect of aloe vera vs. placebo (n =
6) or no treatment (n = 2) on glycemic control in prediabetes (n = 3) or type 2
diabetes (n = 5). Aloe vera preparations in each trial varied and included raw
crushed aloe leaves, freshly extracted aloe vera juice, aloe vera gel powder and
aloe vera extract. Duration of treatment ranged from 2 to 3 months; most studies
were conducted in Iran.

Researchers estimated treatment effect with the mean difference in the final
value of FPG and HbA1c between the treatment and the control groups.

Researchers found that aloe vera reduced FPG in patients with prediabetes (mean
difference, –0.22 mmol/L; 95% CI, –0.32 to –0.12); aloe vera marginally improved
FPG in patients with type 2 diabetes (mean difference, –1.17 mmol/L; 95% CI,
–2.35 to 0).

Participants with type 2 diabetes saw a reduction in HbA1c after aloe vera
supplementation (mean difference, –11 mmol/mol; 95% CI, –19 to –2); there was no
effect on HbA1c in patients with prediabetes, according to researchers.

“The current evidence suggests a possible effect of aloe vera on glycemic control
in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes,” the researchers wrote. “However, given the
poor quality of the limited evidence available, and the considerable
heterogeneity seen in the study results, well-designed, well-powered, randomized
controlled trials using standardized preparations are needed to better quantify
any beneficial effects and their clinical relevance.” – by Regina Schaffer