Evidence supporting the use of: Cape aloe
For the body system: Rectum

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) has a long history of traditional use primarily as a natural laxative. The dried latex of Cape Aloe contains anthraquinone glycosides, particularly aloin, which are known to stimulate bowel movements. Historically, various cultures in Africa and beyond have used Cape Aloe preparations to relieve constipation and promote regularity. This mechanism of action directly impacts the rectum by increasing peristalsis in the colon and facilitating the passage of stool, which can help in cases of occasional constipation. While most modern scientific studies have focused on Aloe vera, the related species Cape Aloe shares similar active compounds and is recognized in pharmacopeias as a source of anthraquinone-based laxatives.

However, though there is ample traditional and pharmacological evidence for Cape Aloe’s laxative effects, clinical trials specifically on Cape Aloe are limited. Most safety and efficacy data are extrapolated from studies on other Aloe species or from the well-known effects of anthraquinone laxatives in general. Chronic use of such laxatives is not recommended due to potential side effects such as electrolyte imbalance or dependency. In summary, the use of Cape Aloe to support the rectum—mainly through relief of constipation—has strong traditional backing and plausible pharmacological basis, but robust modern clinical validation is limited.

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