Is Aloe compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Aloe?

Aloe

June 11, 2016 (Low Risk)

Herb leaves are used. It contains hydroxianthracenes, acemannan and glycomannan.

Attributed properties: laxative and healing effect on wounds.

Indication according to Commission E of the German Ministry of Health: constipation.

Excessive or long-term use may lead to severe diarrhea, dehydration and liver toxicity.

At latest update, relevant published data on excretion into breast milk were not found.
As an active laxative compound it can lead to colicky abdominal pain. Because excretion into breast milk is possible, avoiding it while breastfeeding is advisable.

Non-toxic when topically used.

Without proof of efficacy it is used to treat nipple's crackles or pain. If applied on the breast, cleanse it thoroughly before nursing to avoid swallowing by the infant. Risk of diarrhea or refusing to latch-on because of bad taste would increase.

Alternatives

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Synonyms

  • Acemannan
  • Aloe Juice
  • Cape aloes
  • Sabila

Writings

  • Aloe barbadensis (Latin, botanical name)
  • Aloe capensis (Latin, botanical name)
  • Aloe ferox (Latin, botanical name)
  • Aloe vera (Latin, botanical name)
  • Αλόη (Greek)

Drug trade names

References

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  2. Bunchorntavakul C, Reddy KR. Review article: herbal and dietary supplement hepatotoxicity. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2013Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  3. The Royal Women’s Hospital Victoria Australia. Herbal and Traditional Medicines in Breasfeeding. Fact Sheet. 2013 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  4. Sim TF, Sherriff J, Hattingh HL, Parsons R, Tee LB. The use of herbal medicines during breastfeeding: a population-based survey in Western Australia. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  5. Abu Hamad BA, Sammour HK. Weaning practices of mothers attending United Nations Relief and Works Agency health centres in the Gaza Governorates. J Adv Nurs. 2013Abstract
  6. Mannion C, Mansell D. Breastfeeding self-efficacy and the use of prescription medication: a pilot study. Obstet Gynecol Int. 2012Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  7. Amir LH, Pirotta MV, Raval M. Breastfeeding--evidence based guidelines for the use of medicines. Aust Fam Physician. 2011Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  8. Cuzzolin L, Francini-Pesenti F, Verlato G, Joppi M, Baldelli P, Benoni G. Use of herbal products among 392 Italian pregnant women: focus on pregnancy outcome. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf. 2010Abstract
  9. Zhang AL, Story DF, Lin V, Vitetta L, Xue CC. A population survey on the use of 24 common medicinal herbs in Australia. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf. 2008Abstract
  10. Zaffani S, Cuzzolin L, Benoni G. Herbal products: behaviors and beliefs among Italian women. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf. 2006Abstract
  11. Barankin B, Gross MS. Nipple and areolar eczema in the breastfeeding woman. J Cutan Med Surg. 2004Abstract
  12. De Smet PA. Health risks of herbal remedies: an update. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2004Abstract
  13. Larimore WL, Petrie KA. Drug use during pregnancy and lactation. Prim Care. 2000Abstract
  14. Kopec K. Herbal medications and breastfeeding. J Hum Lact. 1999Abstract
  15. WHO. World Health Organization. Geneva. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants. Volume I. WHO monographs 1999 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)