In this situation, other types of evidence may inform the
debate. Results of in vitro studies on the effects of aloe vera on
cell proliferation are contradictory. One explanation is that the
sap could have cytotoxic activity while the gel might promote
cell growth.21 Various animal models have been used to study
the promotion of wound healing by topical aloe vera preparations.22-26
On balance, these investigations do seem to suggest
that aloe vera does enhance wound healing, although its mechanism
of action is still unclear. Several studies emphasize the antiinflammatory
properties of aloe vera in mice and rats.27-29 A
number of animal experiments suggest that oral aloe vera (juice
and gel) has hypoglycaemic effects in streptozotocin-induced
diabetes in rats.30,31 Obviously, such animal experiments are not
a substitute for clinical trials in the evaluation of efficacy