By Wairimu Gikenye
A glass of aloe vera a day could cut dangerously high blood sugar levels in half for people living with type 2 diabetes, according to new research, sparking fresh interest in the plant as a potential home remedy for diabetes.
In Kenya, where more than two million adults are now diabetic – up from just 872,000 a decade ago – the regular diabetes treatment, insulin. is often too expensive for sufferers, costing up to Sh1,200 a month. This has left nearly 80% of Kenyan diabetics struggling to afford treatment.
But aloe vera, which grows freely in dry areas, such as Kitui, Makueni, and Laikipia, may now offer a cheap and ready alternative.
A review of nine, worldwide clinical trials found drinking aloe vera daily led to sharp improvements in blood sugar control in diabetic patients. Their fasting blood sugar dropped by nearly 47 mg/dL, while their post-meal levels fell by over 61 mg/dL, bringing many patients close to healthy targets.
The study also found improvements in long-term blood sugar levels (HbA1c), and all without side effects.
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Experts believe aloe vera’s power lies in its mix of natural compounds, like glucomannan and lectins, which help slow sugar absorption and boost insulin sensitivity. Its antioxidants also fight inflammation, which is another significant problem for diabetics.
This mix of benefits has seen Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) research open investigations into how the plant could be used to support diabetes care in remote regions as part of the country’s regular diabetes treatment.
For home care, aloe vers is usually prepared from a cut leaf with the spiky edges and green skin removed, and the clear jelly inside scooped out into a glass. It is often mixed with fruit juice to mask its bitter taste, and then drunk daily on an empty stomach.
Its important when making it not to mix in any of the yellowish sap under the skin of the aloe vera leaf, as this can cause stomach problems and diarrhoea. Only the clear jelly is safe to consume.