Herb comparison
Aloe (Aloe vera) vs Papaya Leaf (Carica papaya)
Both plants are listed as traditional remedies for 1 of the same condition, which is why they are easy to confuse. Their descriptions and full safety notes are below, free.
- About
- Aloe vera (syn. A. barbadensis) is a succulent commonly grown as a potted plant, notable for its thick, fleshy leaves that contain two distinct medicinal components. Historically, the inner clear gel was used for skin conditions and to promote wound healing (NCCIH), while the bitter yellow sap from the leaf base, often called “bitter aloes,” is a strong laxative.Papaya is a fast-growing tropical tree that can reach up to 26 feet in height, producing large fruits weighing up to 11 pounds. Originally native to tropical America, papaya has been widely cultivated in tropical regions throughout the world. The plant has been used in traditional Mayan medicine, and the leaves are still employed as a meat tenderizer in tropical Latin America due to their protein-dissolving enzymes.
- Safety & precautions
- The outer leaf sap contains anthraquinone glycosides (like aloin) that act as a strong stimulant laxative; NCCIH notes that in 2002 the FDA required aloe latex to be removed from over-the-counter laxative products because of a lack of safety data. Liver: Oral aloe leaf extracts have been tied to cases of acute hepatitis (NCCIH), and LiverTox rates oral aloe a likely but rare cause of liver injury. Pregnancy: NCCIH says aloe gel, latex, or whole leaf extract taken by mouth may be unsafe during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Some herbalists advise that children and older adults not drink aloe juice containing the strong laxative compounds. Avoid internal use if suffering from kidney disease or hemorrhoids. Concentrated or unfiltered products (containing the outer rind) can be irritating.The latex has powerful purgative effects and should be used cautiously. Use the seeds with caution. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for children or if pregnant or nursing.
Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.